Homemade brownies from scratch are the perfect go-to treat when you want something quick, easy, and delicious. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create rich, fudgy brownies that are sure to satisfy any sweet craving. Whether you’re enjoying them on your own or sharing them with friends, these brownies are always a hit. Once you try this easy recipe, you’ll see how simple and rewarding baking from scratch can be.
Why We Love This
There’s something undeniably special about making brownies from scratch. Not only do they taste so much fresher than store-bought mixes, but the process of creating these rich, fudgy treats from simple ingredients is incredibly satisfying. This easy brownie recipe is the perfect balance of convenience and indulgence—ideal for both beginners and seasoned bakers alike.
Here’s why you’ll love these homemade brownies:
- Quick and Simple: With just a few pantry staples, you can have a batch of warm, homemade brownies ready in under an hour. No need for complicated techniques or hard-to-find ingredients.
- Fudgy, Rich Texture: The key to perfect brownies is getting that gooey, fudgy texture that everyone craves. This recipe delivers just that, with a chewy center and slightly crispy edges.
- Customizable: The beauty of this recipe is its versatility. Want to make them even more decadent? Toss in a handful of chocolate chips or swirl in some caramel. The possibilities are endless.
- No Box Mix Needed: While box mixes are convenient, nothing beats the flavor and satisfaction of brownies made from scratch. You have full control over the ingredients, ensuring a fresher, more flavorful result.
Whether you’re baking them for a family gathering, a cozy afternoon treat, or just because you want something sweet, these brownies are guaranteed to hit the mark. They’re simple, delicious, and perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Unsalted Butter – Adds richness and moisture. You can substitute with salted butter but reduce the salt.
Granulated Sugar – Provides sweetness and moisture. Brown sugar can be used but may change texture.
Eggs – Bind the ingredients together and create a fudgy texture.
Vanilla Extract – Enhances flavor.
Cocoa Powder – Gives the rich chocolate flavor.
All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure and a chewy texture.
Baking Powder – Helps the brownies rise slightly.
Salt – Balances sweetness and enhances chocolate flavor.
Chocolate Chips (Optional) – For extra chocolatey goodness.
Instructions
Making these easy brownies from scratch is a breeze! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll be enjoying warm, fudgy brownies in no time. Let’s get started:
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×9-inch pan or line it with parchment paper.
Melt the butter in a microwave or over low heat. Let it cool slightly.
Whisk wet ingredients: In a bowl, whisk the sugar, eggs, and vanilla until smooth.
Add melted butter to the wet mixture and stir gently.
Mix dry ingredients: Sift in cocoa powder, flour, salt, and baking powder. Stir until just combined.
Fold in chocolate chips (optional) for extra flavor.
Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly.
Bake for 20-25 minutes. Check with a toothpick; it should come out with a few moist crumbs.
Cool and serve: Let brownies cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes, then cut into squares and enjoy!
Pro Tips
To ensure your brownies come out perfectly every time, here are some expert tips that will take your homemade brownies to the next level:
Don’t Overmix the Batter
When combining the wet and dry ingredients, mix just until everything is incorporated. Overmixing can cause the brownies to become dense and tough instead of light and fudgy.
Use Room Temperature Eggs
For the best texture, make sure your eggs are at room temperature. Cold eggs can cause the batter to seize up, affecting the smoothness of your mixture.
Check for Doneness Early
Ovens can vary, so start checking your brownies at the 20-minute mark. Stick a toothpick into the center—if it comes out with a few moist crumbs, they’re done! If it’s clean, they may be overcooked.
Let Them Cool Before Cutting
Though it’s tempting to dive right in, allowing your brownies to cool completely (or at least for 10-15 minutes) ensures they set properly and don’t fall apart when you cut them.
Try a Baking Pan Liner
Lining your pan with parchment paper not only helps with easy removal but also ensures your brownies cook evenly. The paper helps keep the edges from over-baking, resulting in a perfectly soft, chewy center.
Go for Quality Cocoa Powder
The flavor of your brownies depends a lot on the cocoa powder. Opt for a high-quality, unsweetened cocoa powder to get that deep chocolate flavor that makes these brownies irresistible.
Customize Your Brownies
Want to make these even more special? Add-ins like chopped nuts, chocolate chunks, or a swirl of peanut butter can elevate your brownies. Experiment with different flavors to create your own signature treat!
Variations
One of the best things about this easy brownie recipe is how versatile it is! You can easily customize these brownies to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs. Here are a few delicious variations to try:
Fudgy Brownies with Extra Chocolate
If you’re a true chocolate lover, increase the cocoa powder to 1/2 cup and fold in an extra 1/2 cup of chocolate chips. The result? Ultra-rich, extra fudgy brownies will satisfy even the most intense chocolate cravings.
Nutty Brownies
For some added crunch and flavor, mix in 1/2 cup of your favorite nuts—walnuts, pecans, or almonds work beautifully. The nuts add texture and a nice contrast to the smooth, fudgy base.
Peanut Butter Swirl Brownies
If you love the sweet and salty combination, swirl in 1/2 cup of peanut butter right before baking. Simply spoon dollops of peanut butter on top of the batter and use a knife to swirl it through, creating beautiful marbled patterns.
Vegan Brownies
Want to make these brownies vegan? Swap the eggs for flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flax seeds + 3 tablespoons water per egg), and replace the butter with vegan butter or coconut oil. Make sure to use a dairy-free chocolate for a fully vegan treat.
Serving Suggestions
Once your brownies are baked, cooled, and cut into delicious squares, it’s time to think about how to serve them! These easy brownies from scratch are perfect for so many occasions, and here are a few serving suggestions to take them to the next level:
Classic with a Scoop of Ice Cream
Brownies and ice cream are a match made in dessert heaven. Serve a warm brownie topped with a scoop of vanilla, chocolate, or even salted caramel ice cream. The contrast of warm and cold is irresistible!
Brownie Sundae
For a fun twist, create a brownie sundae. Layer crumbled brownies in a bowl, drizzle with hot fudge or caramel sauce, and top with whipped cream, nuts, and a cherry. It’s a perfect dessert for any celebration or casual treat.
With Fresh Berries and Cream
If you prefer something lighter, serve your brownies with a handful of fresh berries like raspberries or strawberries. Add a dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of heavy cream to create a fresh, fruity balance to the rich, fudgy brownies.
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FAQs
Here are some frequently asked questions to help you get the best results with your easy brownies from scratch:
Can I use a different type of chocolate for this recipe?
Absolutely! You can swap the cocoa powder for a different variety, like dark chocolate or bittersweet chocolate, depending on how rich you like your brownies. Just make sure to melt the chocolate before adding it to the batter if you choose to go this route.
How can I make my brownies fudgier?
For a fudgier texture, reduce the baking time by a few minutes. Also, use more butter or oil, and avoid overmixing the batter to keep it moist and dense. The key is to not overbake them—check with a toothpick to ensure it comes out with just a few moist crumbs.
Can I freeze brownies?
Yes, brownies freeze beautifully! Simply wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or foil and store them in an airtight container. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, let them thaw at room temperature or pop them in the microwave for a few seconds.
How do I store leftover brownies?
To keep your brownies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4-5 days. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze them, as mentioned above.
Can I double this recipe for a larger batch?
Yes! If you’re making brownies for a crowd, simply double the ingredients. Use a larger pan, like a 9×13-inch baking dish, and bake for a bit longer—start checking for doneness at around 30 minutes.
easy brownies from scratch
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup 115g butter – melted
- 1 cup 200g granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/3 cup 40g unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 cup 65g all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 cup 90g chocolate chips (optional)
Instructions
Preheat the oven
- Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it’s warming up, grease a 9×9-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal later.
Melt the butter
- In a microwave-safe bowl or over low heat on the stovetop, melt the butter. Allow it to cool slightly before using it in the batter.
Whisk the wet ingredients
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth and well combined, creating a light, airy texture.
Add the melted butter
- Pour the melted butter into the sugar-egg mixture, stirring gently to combine. The butter should be cool enough that it doesn’t cook the eggs when added.
Mix the dry ingredients
- Sift in the cocoa powder, flour, salt, and baking powder into the wet ingredients. Stir the mixture gently until just combined—be careful not to overmix.
Fold in the chocolate chips (optional)
- For extra chocolatey goodness, fold in chocolate chips. This step is optional but highly recommended for anyone craving even more chocolate flavor!
Pour the batter into the pan
- Transfer the brownie batter into your prepared baking pan. Use a spatula to spread it evenly across the pan.
Bake
- Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. Start checking at the 20-minute mark. The brownies are done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs, not wet batter.
Cool and serve
- Let the brownies cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cool, cut them into squares and serve.