Brownies don’t always have to be chocolate. These Vanilla Brownies are a sweet and creamy twist on the classic, made with white chocolate and rich vanilla flavor. They’re soft, delicious, and perfect when you want something a little different but just as satisfying.
Why We Love This Vanilla Brownies Recipe
There are countless reasons to adore Vanilla Brownies, starting with their incredible taste. They strike a perfect balance between sweetness and richness, providing a creamy texture that melts in your mouth. Unlike traditional brownies, these beauties allow the flavor of vanilla to shine, complemented by the creamy notes of white chocolate. This recipe is not only easy to make but also offers a fantastic base for improvisation, making it versatile for any occasion.
Baking these brownies is a delightful activity for anyone, whether you’re a seasoned baker or a novice. They require minimal ingredients and can be prepared in no time—perfect for spontaneous cravings or planned gatherings. Once you try this recipe, you will understand why Vanilla Brownies warrant a special place in your dessert lineup.
Ingredients for Vanilla Brownies
To create your very own batch of Vanilla Brownies, you will need the following ingredients:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (1 stick), plus more for greasing the pan
- 8 ounces (227 g) white chocolate chips
- 1/4 cup (47 g) packed brown sugar
- 1/2 cup (105 g) granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs, at room temperature
- 1 cup (125 g) all-purpose flour (spooned & leveled)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 teaspoons vanilla bean paste (or vanilla extract)
For Vanilla Icing:
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 1/2 cups (180 g) powdered sugar
- 1 1/2 – 2 tablespoons milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla bean paste (or vanilla extract)
- Pinch salt
How to Make Vanilla Brownies Directions
Let’s get started on your journey to create these scrumptious Vanilla Brownies. The steps are straightforward, and you’ll have a batch ready to delight family and friends.
Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it’s heating, take a moment to grease a 9×9-inch pan with a bit of butter to prevent your brownies from sticking.
Melt Butter and White Chocolate: In a large microwave-safe bowl, combine the unsalted butter and white chocolate chips. Microwave the mixture on 50% power for 30 seconds. Once the time is up, stir the mixture and repeat this process until everything is melted and smooth. Make sure to let it cool slightly, as you don’t want to cook the eggs in the next step.
Add Sugars and Eggs: Next, mix in the brown sugar and granulated sugar until well combined. After that, add the eggs, one at a time, making sure to mix well after each addition. The mixture should become fluffy and light in color.
Incorporate Dry Ingredients: Gradually stir in the all-purpose flour and salt until just combined. Avoid overmixing; you want to keep your brownies tender. Once mixed, add in the vanilla bean paste for that irresistible flavor.
Pour and Smooth: Pour your batter into the greased pan and spread it out evenly. Use a spatula to smooth the top so it bakes uniformly.
Bake to Perfection: Place the pan in your preheated oven and bake for 28-32 minutes. Use a toothpick to check for doneness—if it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, your brownies are ready.
Cooling Time: Allow the brownies to cool in the pan for about an hour. This step is crucial for achieving that perfect texture.
Prepare the Icing: While your brownies cool, you can whip up the vanilla icing. Melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a bowl, then gradually mix in the powdered sugar, a pinch of salt, the vanilla bean paste, and enough milk to reach your desired consistency.
Finish and Serve: Once the brownies have cooled, spread the icing over the top. Cut them into squares, and voila! You’re ready to serve these delightful treats to family and friends.
How to Serve Vanilla Brownies
Serving Vanilla Brownies can be as versatile as the recipe itself. Begin by cutting them into generous squares or rectangles, allowing everyone to grab their favorite sized piece. You can present them on a beautiful serving platter, adding a touch of elegance to your dessert table.
Two delightful ways to elevate your Vanilla Brownies include pairing them with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The contrast of the warm brownie and the cool ice cream creates a comforting experience that will leave your guests yearning for more. Top with a sprinkle of crushed nuts, chocolate shavings, or even fresh berries for added visual appeal and a burst of flavor.
If you’re hosting a themed event, consider adding a drizzle of caramel or a dusting of edible flowers to enhance presentation. This dish could quickly become the go-to dessert for birthdays, picnics, or even cozy family dinners. Whether enjoyed on their own or as an accompaniment, Vanilla Brownies have a natural allure that few can resist.
Expert Tips for Vanilla Brownies
Achieving the perfect Vanilla Brownies hinges on a few expert tips. Start with using high-quality white chocolate chips, as they contribute significantly to the overall flavor. Avoid overbaking: keep an eye on the baking time and utilize the toothpick method; this will help maintain a soft and chewy texture.
Ensure your eggs are at room temperature before mixing. This simple step helps create a smooth, emulsified batter. Remember to use a light hand when incorporating the flour—overmixing can lead to dense brownies, which you definitely want to avoid.
If you’re in the mood for experimentation, try adding some chocolate chips or nuts to the batter for a different texture. And don’t forget, patience is key when cooling your brownies before icing. This will not only help the icing stick better, but it will also prevent it from melting off.
How to Store Vanilla Brownies
To keep your Vanilla Brownies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They can typically last for about 3-5 days—if they last that long! However, if you want to extend their shelf life, consider refrigerating them. Just be sure to allow them to come to room temperature before serving, as this will help restore their delightful texture.
For longer storage, you can freeze the brownies. Once they are fully cooled, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in an airtight container or freezer bag. They will keep for up to three months in the freezer. When ready to indulge again, allow them to thaw in the refrigerator or at room temperature for a few hours before enjoying.
Variations of Vanilla Brownies
This Vanilla Brownies recipe is versatile enough for you to get creative with. Try adding different mix-ins to customize your brownies according to your taste:
Nutty Delight: Add chopped nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, into the batter for extra crunch. They not only contribute texture but also enhance the flavor profile.
Dried Fruits: Consider mixing in dried fruits like cranberries, cherries, or apricots for a chewy texture and a pop of color. This variation adds a refreshing contrast against the sweetness of the brownies.
Chocolate Swirls: If you’re feeling adventurous, melt some dark chocolate and swirl it into the vanilla batter before baking. This creates a gorgeous marbled effect that is as beautiful as it is delicious.
Flavor Infusions: Experiment with different extracts—almond extract or lemon zest can offer a delightful twist. Just ensure you adjust the amount for a balanced flavor.
Frosting Flavors: Switch up the icing to match your mood. Consider a chocolate ganache or a cream cheese frosting for an exciting change.
These variations allow you to put your own spin on the classic Vanilla Brownies and can make each batch uniquely yours.
FAQ Section
How do you make Vanilla Brownies from scratch?
Making Vanilla Brownies from scratch is a simple process! Start by melting butter and white chocolate, then mix in sugars and eggs. Gradually add your dry ingredients, and bake until perfect.
What ingredients do I need for Vanilla Brownies?
You’ll need unsalted butter, white chocolate chips, sugars, eggs, all-purpose flour, salt, and vanilla bean paste. Don’t forget about the simple icing ingredients for that extra touch!
Can I substitute white chocolate with dark chocolate?
While white chocolate is the star of this recipe, you can absolutely experiment with dark chocolate. Just keep in mind that it will alter the flavor and may require adjustments in sweetness.
How can I improve the texture of my Vanilla Brownies?
To achieve the best texture, make sure not to overmix the batter, use eggs at room temperature, and avoid overbaking. Keeping these pointers in mind will result in a moist yet firm brownie.
What’s the best way to enjoy Vanilla Brownies?
The best way to enjoy them is fresh out of the oven or served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. They can also be enjoyed with a drizzle of chocolate or caramel sauce.
Vanilla Brownies
Ingredients
For the Brownies
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (1 stick), plus more for greasing the pan
- 8 ounces white chocolate chips
- 1/4 cup packed brown sugar
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs, at room temperature
- 1 cup all-purpose flour (spooned & leveled)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 teaspoons vanilla bean paste (or vanilla extract)
For the Vanilla Icing
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 1/2 - 2 tablespoons milk Adjust for desired consistency
- 1 teaspoon vanilla bean paste (or vanilla extract)
- a pinch salt
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x9-inch pan with butter.
- In a large microwave-safe bowl, combine unsalted butter and white chocolate chips. Microwave on 50% power for 30 seconds at a time, stirring in between, until melted and smooth. Let it cool slightly.
- Mix in brown sugar and granulated sugar until well combined, then add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition until fluffy and light in color.
- Gradually stir in all-purpose flour and salt until just combined. Add vanilla bean paste, mixing gently.
- Pour the batter into the greased pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
Baking
- Bake in the preheated oven for 28-32 minutes, checking for doneness with a toothpick.
Cooling and Icing
- Let the brownies cool in the pan for about an hour.
- For the icing, melt 2 tablespoons of butter, then mix in powdered sugar, a pinch of salt, vanilla bean paste, and enough milk for your desired consistency.
- Spread the icing over the cooled brownies, cut into squares, and serve.