Chocolate Fudge Brownies

Chocolate Fudge Brownies are the ultimate indulgent dessert for chocolate lovers. These brownies are rich, dense, and irresistibly fudgy with a crackly top and gooey center that melts in your mouth. Whether you enjoy them warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or straight from the pan, they never disappoint.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Deep, intense chocolate flavor
  • Fudgy, chewy texture with a crisp top
  • One-bowl recipe – easy cleanup
  • Made with simple pantry staples
  • Customizable with nuts, chocolate chips, or toppings
  • Perfect for birthdays, holidays, or casual snacking
  • Freezer-friendly for make-ahead treats
  • Delicious warm or at room temperature
  • Kid-friendly and crowd-pleasing
  • No electric mixer required

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

  • Unsalted butter
  • Granulated sugar
  • Brown sugar
  • Eggs
  • Vanilla extract
  • Unsweetened cocoa powder
  • All-purpose flour
  • Salt
  • Chocolate chips or chunks (semi-sweet or dark)

Directions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper or grease lightly.
  2. Melt the butter in a large microwave-safe bowl. Let it cool slightly, then stir in granulated sugar and brown sugar until smooth.
  3. Add the eggs and vanilla, beating until the mixture becomes glossy and thick.
  4. Mix in the cocoa powder, then add the flour and salt. Stir just until no dry streaks remain. Do not overmix.
  5. Fold in chocolate chips or chunks, distributing evenly throughout the batter.
  6. Pour the batter into the pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
  7. Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until the edges are set and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with moist crumbs (not wet batter).
  8. Cool completely in the pan on a wire rack before slicing into squares.

Servings and Timing

  • Servings: 16 brownies
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30–35 minutes
  • Total Time: About 50 minutes

Variations

  • Add nuts: Stir in chopped walnuts or pecans for a crunch.
  • Swirl in peanut butter: Drop dollops on top and swirl before baking.
  • Espresso kick: Add 1 teaspoon of espresso powder for enhanced chocolate flavor.
  • Top with sea salt: Sprinkle flaky salt on top before baking.
  • Frosted brownies: Cool and frost with chocolate ganache or buttercream.

Storage/Reheating

  • Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
  • Refrigeration: Keeps for up to 1 week in the fridge.
  • Freezing: Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temp.
  • Reheating: Microwave a slice for 10–15 seconds for a warm, gooey texture.

FAQs

How do I make brownies extra fudgy?

Use less flour and avoid overbaking. Stick to the bake time and test with a toothpick.

Can I use oil instead of butter?

Yes, vegetable oil works, but butter adds better flavor and richness.

What cocoa powder should I use?

Unsweetened natural cocoa powder is great, but Dutch-processed gives a deeper flavor.

How do I get clean cuts?

Chill the brownies before slicing and use a clean, sharp knife wiped between cuts.

Can I add frosting or toppings?

Absolutely! A simple chocolate glaze, ganache, or dusting of powdered sugar works well.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes. Use a 9×13-inch pan and bake for 35–40 minutes, checking for doneness.

Why is my brownie center raw?

You may have underbaked or your oven runs cooler. Check with a toothpick for moist crumbs.

Can I make them gluten-free?

Use a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour substitute. Results will still be chewy and fudgy.

Can I add candy or mix-ins?

Totally! M&M’s, caramel bits, or toffee pieces make delicious add-ins.

How long should I wait to cut them?

Wait until fully cool (about 1 hour) or chill briefly in the fridge for clean slices.

Conclusion

Chocolate Fudge Brownies are the ultimate comfort dessert—decadent, chewy, and loaded with chocolate flavor. They’re simple to make, endlessly customizable, and guaranteed to satisfy any sweet tooth. Whether for a special occasion or a cozy night in, these brownies are always a good idea.

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Chocolate Fudge Brownies

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These Chocolate Fudge Brownies are ultra-rich, chewy in the center, and full of deep chocolate flavor. Made with real melted chocolate and a hint of cocoa powder, they have that crackly top and fudgy middle everyone loves. Easy to make and even easier to eat!

  • Author: Beth
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 912 brownies 1x
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter

  • 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips or chopped chocolate

  • 3/4 cup granulated sugar

  • 1/4 cup brown sugar

  • 2 large eggs

  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour

  • 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder

  • 1/4 tsp salt

  • Optional: 1/2 cup chopped nuts or extra chocolate chips for mix-in

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven:
    Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it.

  2. Melt chocolate and butter:
    In a medium saucepan over low heat (or using a microwave in 20-second bursts), melt the butter and chocolate together, stirring until smooth. Let it cool slightly.

  3. Mix wet ingredients:
    In a large bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, and vanilla.
    Slowly pour in the slightly cooled chocolate mixture and whisk until well combined.

  4. Add dry ingredients:
    Sift in the flour, cocoa powder, and salt. Stir until just combined—don’t overmix.
    Fold in nuts or extra chocolate chips if using.

  5. Bake:
    Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top.
    Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs (not wet batter).

  6. Cool and slice:
    Let the brownies cool completely in the pan before slicing into squares.
    For cleaner cuts, chill them for 30 minutes before slicing.

 


Notes

  • For extra fudgy brownies, take them out right when the edges are set but the center is still slightly soft.

  • Add a pinch of espresso powder to boost the chocolate flavor.

 

  • Store in an airtight container at room temp for up to 4 days, or freeze for longer storage.

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