These one-bowl brownies are the perfect treat when you’re craving something rich and fudgy. With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up a batch in no time. No mess, no fuss—just pure chocolatey goodness in every bite. Let’s get started!
Key Benefits of One Bowl Brownies
These one-bowl brownies aren’t just easy—they’re a game-changer when it comes to quick and satisfying baking. Here’s why you’ll love making this recipe:
- Minimal Cleanup: Forget the mess of multiple bowls and utensils. With this one-bowl wonder, you only need a mixing bowl and a spoon to create the perfect brownies. Less mess means more time enjoying your delicious treat!
- Quick and Easy: Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced baker, this recipe is simple enough for anyone to master. In less than an hour, you’ll have warm, fudgy brownies ready to enjoy.
- Rich Chocolate Flavor: Using cocoa powder and optional chocolate chips, these brownies deliver that perfect, indulgent chocolate taste with every bite. The combination of the ingredients ensures a moist, chewy texture that’s hard to beat.
- Versatile: While the classic recipe is already a hit, you can easily customize it with mix-ins like nuts, peanut butter swirls, or even a hint of vanilla extract for an extra flavor boost. Plus, they’re perfect for any occasion—whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply treating yourself.
These brownies are the definition of effortless baking. With just a handful of pantry staples, you’ll be enjoying a sweet, homemade dessert without all the hassle.
Ingredients for one bowl brownies
Making these one-bowl brownies requires just a few simple ingredients you probably already have in your pantry. Here’s what you’ll need to create that rich, fudgy perfection:
- Unsalted Butter – Melted for a rich, fudgy texture.
- Granulated Sugar – Adds sweetness and chewiness.
- Eggs – Provide structure and moisture.
- Vanilla Extract – Enhances the chocolate flavor.
- Unsweetened Cocoa Powder – Gives a deep chocolate taste.
- All-purpose flour – Just enough for structure without making it cakey.
- Salt – Balances sweetness and enhances flavor.
- Baking Powder – Helps with a slight lift and texture.
- Chocolate Chips (Optional) – Extra chocolatey goodness.
Instructions
Ready to make your one-bowl brownies? Follow these simple steps to create the perfect batch of fudgy, gooey brownies every time:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease or line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper. This ensures your brownies don’t stick and makes cleanup a breeze!
Melt the butter in a microwave-safe bowl or on the stovetop. Let it cool slightly before mixing it with the sugar.
Mix the sugar and melted butter together in your mixing bowl until well combined. You’ll get a smooth, creamy base that gives these brownies their rich flavor.
Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, stir in the vanilla extract. These ingredients bring moisture and help create the perfect texture.
Sift in the cocoa powder, flour, salt, and baking powder. Stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix—this keeps your brownies chewy rather than cakey!
Fold in chocolate chips (if using), and gently mix to distribute them evenly throughout the batter.
Pour the batter into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
Bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with just a few moist crumbs. Be careful not to overbake, as you want that perfect fudgy texture.
Pro Tips
To take your one-bowl brownies from great to absolutely irresistible, here are some pro tips to keep in mind:
Don’t Overmix: When adding the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stir until just combined. Overmixing the batter can lead to cakier brownies, and we want these to stay fudgy and chewy!
Use High-Quality Cocoa Powder: The cocoa powder you choose will directly impact the flavor of your brownies. Opt for a rich, high-quality unsweetened cocoa powder to give your brownies a deep, indulgent chocolate taste.
Check for Doneness Early: Oven temperatures can vary, so start checking your brownies at the 20-minute mark. A toothpick inserted should come out with a few moist crumbs—not wet batter. Keep in mind that the brownies will continue to set as they cool.
Cool Before Cutting: Patience is key! Let your brownies cool in the pan for at least 10 minutes before cutting into them. This will allow them to firm up, making it easier to get clean, neat slices.
For Extra Fudginess, Underbake Just a Little: If you’re a fan of ultra-fudgy brownies, remove them from the oven when there’s still a bit of moisture left on the toothpick. The brownies will continue to cook and set as they cool, but they’ll stay soft and gooey.
Variations
One of the best things about these one-bowl brownies is how versatile they are! You can easily customize them to suit your preferences or to try something new. Here are some delicious variations to elevate your brownies:
Nuts: Add chopped walnuts, pecans, or almonds for a bit of crunch. The nuts will give your brownies a lovely texture and a bit of extra flavor.
Peanut Butter Swirl: For peanut butter lovers, swirl some creamy peanut butter into the brownie batter before baking. This creates a delightful contrast with the rich chocolate.
Mint Chocolate Brownies: Add a few drops of mint extract to the batter and fold in mint chocolate chips. This variation gives your brownies a refreshing minty flavor that’s perfect for the holidays or special occasions.
Salted Caramel Brownies: Drizzle a generous layer of caramel sauce over the top of the brownie batter before baking. Once baked, sprinkle with a pinch of sea salt to bring out the sweet and salty contrast.
Serving Suggestions
These one-bowl brownies are delicious on their own, but why stop there? Here are a few serving suggestions to take your brownies to the next level:
Classic Pairing: A Scoop of Ice Cream: There’s nothing like warm brownies paired with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The creamy texture perfectly complements the rich, fudgy brownies, creating a delightful contrast. For extra indulgence, drizzle some chocolate syrup or caramel sauce over the top.
With Fresh Berries: Lighten up the richness of the brownies by serving them with a handful of fresh berries like raspberries, strawberries, or blueberries. The tartness of the fruit balances the sweetness of the brownies, making for a refreshing combination.
Whipped Cream and a Sprinkle of Cocoa: Top your brownies with a dollop of freshly whipped cream and a light dusting of cocoa powder. This simple yet elegant touch elevates the dessert while adding a creamy contrast.
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FAQs
Here are some frequently asked questions about making these one-bowl brownies:
Can I substitute the butter for something else?
Yes, you can substitute the butter with an equal amount of vegetable oil, coconut oil, or even melted chocolate for a slightly richer flavor. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, try using vegan butter or coconut oil.
How can I make these brownies more fudgy?
If you prefer ultra-fudgy brownies, slightly underbake them. Check for doneness at the 20-minute mark, and pull them out when a toothpick comes out with a few moist crumbs. The residual heat will continue cooking the brownies as they cool, keeping them soft and fudgy.
Why did my brownies turn out cakey?
If your brownies turned out cakey instead of fudgy, it’s likely because they were overmixed or overbaked. To avoid this, stir the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until just combined and keep an eye on them while baking—test for doneness a few minutes before the recommended time.
one bowl brownies
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup 115g unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup 200g granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup 50g unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 cup 65g all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 cup 90g chocolate chips (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease or line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper. This ensures your brownies don’t stick and makes cleanup a breeze!
- Melt the butter in a microwave-safe bowl or on the stovetop. Let it cool slightly before mixing it with the sugar.
- Mix the sugar and melted butter together in your mixing bowl until well combined. You’ll get a smooth, creamy base that gives these brownies their rich flavor.
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, stir in the vanilla extract. These ingredients bring moisture and help create the perfect texture.
- Sift in the cocoa powder, flour, salt, and baking powder. Stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix—this keeps your brownies chewy rather than cakey!
- Fold in chocolate chips (if using), and gently mix to distribute them evenly throughout the batter.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with just a few moist crumbs. Be careful not to overbake, as you want that perfect fudgy texture.