Ingredients
Scale
For the Brownies:
- 1 cup (2 sticks or 220 grams) unsalted butter
- 2 1/4 cups (450 grams) granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs (about 200 grams)
- 1 teaspoon (5 ml) vanilla extract
- 1 cup (125 grams) all-purpose flour
- 1 cup (100 grams) unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 teaspoon (3 grams) salt
- 1 teaspoon (4 grams) baking powder
- 1 cup (175 grams) semi-sweet chocolate chips (optional)
For the Optional Frosting:
- 1/2 cup (1 stick or 110 grams) unsalted butter, softened
- 1/4 cup (25 grams) unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/4 cup (60 ml) milk
- 2 cups (240 grams) powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon (5 ml) vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a 9×13 inch (23×33 cm) baking pan with butter or non-stick spray, or line with parchment paper.
- Melt the Butter and Mix with Sugar: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Remove from heat and stir in the granulated sugar until well combined. Let cool slightly.
- Add Eggs and Vanilla: Transfer the butter and sugar mixture to a large mixing bowl. Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, salt, and baking powder. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently just until combined.
- Add Chocolate Chips (Optional): Fold in the chocolate chips, if using.
- Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it out evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.
- Cool and Frost (Optional): Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. If adding frosting, prepare it while the brownies cool.
- Prepare the Frosting (Optional): In a medium bowl, beat together the softened butter, cocoa powder, milk, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. Spread the frosting over the cooled brownies.
- Serve: Cut into squares and serve.
Notes
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your eggs are at room temperature to mix well with the batter.
- Don’t Overbake: Bake just until a toothpick comes out with a few moist crumbs to keep the brownies fudgy.
- Let Them Cool: Allowing the brownies to cool completely makes them easier to cut and enhances their flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 min
- Cook Time: 25-35 min
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking