There’s something special about biting into a brownie with a crispy, crunchy edge. Maybe you always grab the corner piece first or wish every brownie had that perfect crisp. You’re not the only one. Crispy brownies are loved by anyone who wants great texture along with rich chocolate flavor. This guide will show you how to make brownies that are crispy on the outside and soft and fudgy inside.
Why We Love This Crispy Brownies Recipe
- Balances gooey centers and crispy edges
- No specialty equipment or ingredients needed
- Easy to personalize with mix-ins
- Ideal for gifting or special occasions
You’ll love how simple this recipe is to execute. Whether you’re baking for yourself or a crowd, these brownies hit the mark with texture and taste.
Ingredients
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, melted
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 3/4 cup brown sugar (for chewiness)
- 3 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
The combination of granulated and brown sugar helps to create that crispy top layer while keeping the interior soft. Use room temperature eggs for a smoother batter that bakes evenly.
How to Make Crispy Brownies
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a metal 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper. Avoid glass pans if your goal is a crisp texture.
Mix the wet ingredients. In a large bowl, whisk together melted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until smooth and glossy.
Add eggs and vanilla. Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract. Mix well after each addition.
Combine the dry ingredients. In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, salt, and baking powder.
Combine wet and dry mixtures. Gradually fold the dry mixture into the wet until just combined. Avoid overmixing to maintain the right texture.
Stir in chocolate chips. These will melt slightly while baking and add extra texture to each bite.
Bake to perfection. Spread the batter evenly in the prepared pan. Bake for 28–32 minutes, depending on your oven. Edges should be firm and a toothpick inserted near the center should come out with moist crumbs, not raw batter.
Cool completely before cutting. This helps the brownies set and gives you clean, crisp slices.
Expert Tips for Extra Crispy Brownies
- Use a metal pan. It conducts heat more efficiently than glass or ceramic, encouraging browning and crisping.
- Don’t overmix. Once the flour is in, mix just until combined. Overmixing creates air pockets that interfere with texture.
- Bake slightly longer. If you like extra crunch, leave the brownies in for 1–2 more minutes, watching closely.
- Let them cool uncovered. Covering traps steam and softens the crust.
- Edge-obsessed? Try a brownie edge pan designed with more corners for maximum crisp.
Variations to Try with Crispy Brownies
You can keep things classic or get creative. Here are a few ideas:
- Espresso Boost: Add 1 teaspoon of instant espresso powder to intensify the chocolate flavor.
- Nutty Crunch: Mix in 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans for added texture.
- Caramel Swirl: Drop dollops of caramel sauce on top of the batter and swirl gently with a toothpick.
- Dairy-Free: Swap butter with a plant-based alternative and use dairy-free chocolate chips.
- Spiced Twist: A pinch of cinnamon or cayenne can bring warmth and depth to each bite.
Serving Suggestions for Crispy Brownies
Brownies are versatile and always a crowd-pleaser. Serve them:
- Slightly warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream
- As part of a dessert platter with fresh berries
- Dusted with powdered sugar for a simple touch
- In gift boxes wrapped with parchment and twine
- Alongside your favorite warm drink for a cozy treat
More brownie recipes you will love!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How do I make brownies crispy on top?
Use a higher ratio of granulated sugar and avoid covering them as they cool. Baking in a metal pan and using the right temperature also help.
What makes brownie edges crispy?
Crispy edges come from direct contact with the pan and the right fat-to-flour ratio. Metal pans with sharp corners promote this effect.
Can I make brownies crispy without overbaking?
Yes. The key is to slightly increase sugar content, bake in a metal pan, and cool them uncovered. This way, you get crisp without dryness.
Do crispy brownies stay crispy after storing?
To preserve crispness, store brownies loosely covered at room temperature. Airtight containers trap moisture, softening the crust.
Why are my brownies not crispy?
Common culprits include using a glass dish, underbaking, or too much fat. Ensuring your oven is properly preheated and using the correct pan helps achieve crispiness.
Crispy Brownies
Equipment
- Metal 9×13-inch baking pan
- Parchment Paper
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter melted
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 3/4 cup brown sugar for chewiness
- 3 large eggs room temperature
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a metal 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, whisk together melted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until smooth and glossy.
- Beat in the eggs one at a time, then add vanilla extract. Mix well after each addition.
- Sift together the flour, cocoa powder, salt, and baking powder in a separate bowl.
- Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined. Avoid overmixing.
- Stir in chocolate chips.
- Spread batter evenly in the prepared pan. Bake for 28–32 minutes. Edges should be firm and a toothpick near the center should come out with moist crumbs.
- Cool completely before cutting to allow brownies to set and create clean, crisp slices.