Save These rich brownies combine dark chocolate and crunchy walnuts for a decadent treat. With a fudgy texture and balanced sweetness, they deliver gooey satisfaction in every bite. Easy to prepare and bake in under an hour, they are perfect for cozy gatherings or indulgent snacks. Slightly underbaking results in an extra fudgy center, while the walnuts add a delightful crunch. Serve warm or at room temperature for best results.
My apartment smelled like chocolate heaven at 2 AM, and I had no regrets. I'd gotten a sudden craving for something rich and chocolatey, and these brownies were calling my name. The way they crackle on top but stay fudgy inside is pure magic.
Last summer my neighbor knocked on my door because she could smell these baking through our shared wall. I ended up giving her half the batch fresh from the oven. Now she texts me whenever she sees butter on sale at the grocery store.
Ingredients
- All-purpose flour: Just enough structure to hold everything together without making them cakey
- Unsweetened cocoa powder: Deep chocolate flavor that balances the sugar perfectly
- Salt: Dont skip this, it makes the chocolate taste more intense
- Baking powder: Gives them just enough lift to not be dense
- Unsalted butter: Melt it completely and let it cool slightly before mixing
- Granulated sugar: Creates that gorgeous crackly top we all love
- Large eggs: Room temperature eggs incorporate better and prevent seizing
- Pure vanilla extract: Rounds out the chocolate flavor beautifully
- Semi-sweet chocolate chips: Fold them in whole for melty pockets throughout
- Walnut halves: Toast them lightly in a dry pan first for extra nutty flavor
Instructions
- Get your oven ready:
- Preheat to 350°F and line a 9x9 pan with parchment paper, letting some hang over the sides for easy removal later.
- Whisk the dry team:
- Combine flour, cocoa powder, salt, and baking powder in a medium bowl and set aside.
- Make the glossy base:
- Whisk melted butter and sugar in a large bowl until it looks shiny and smooth, about 2 minutes.
- Add the eggs:
- Beat in eggs one at a time, then stir in vanilla until everything is incorporated.
- Combine gently:
- Fold in the dry ingredients just until no flour streaks remain, being careful not to overmix.
- Add the goodies:
- Gently fold in the chocolate chips and toasted walnuts until evenly distributed.
- Bake to perfection:
- Spread batter into your prepared pan and bake for 28 to 32 minutes until a toothpick comes out with moist crumbs.
- The hardest part:
- Let them cool completely in the pan before slicing, or theyll fall apart.
Save My sister requests these for every family gathering now. She even asked me to bake them for her wedding instead of a traditional cake.
Getting That Crackly Top
The shiny crackly crust happens naturally when you whip the butter and sugar long enough. I used to think it was some secret technique, but its just patience and thorough mixing.
Storage Secrets
These actually taste better on day two when the flavors have melded together. Store them at room temperature in an airtight container with a piece of bread to keep them extra moist.
Serving Ideas
Warm a brownie for 15 seconds in the microwave and top with vanilla ice cream for the ultimate dessert.
- Sprinkle sea salt on top before baking for a salted chocolate version
- Add a teaspoon of espresso powder to enhance the chocolate flavor
- Cutting them with a plastic knife prevents sticking
Save Every time I pull these from the oven, that first whist of chocolate reminds me why homemade treats are worth every minute.
Recipe Q&A
- → What makes these brownies fudgy?
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The combination of melted butter and a precise baking time creates a moist, gooey texture characteristic of fudge-style brownies.
- → Can I substitute walnuts with other nuts?
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Yes, pecans or other tree nuts work well and offer a similar crunchy contrast to the smooth chocolate.
- → How do I know when the brownies are perfectly baked?
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Insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out with a few moist crumbs but not wet batter for ideal texture.
- → Is it better to serve these brownies warm or cooled?
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Both options are delicious: warm brings out gooeyness, while cooled brownies hold their shape and intensify flavors.
- → How should I store leftover brownies?
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Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to four days to maintain freshness and texture.
- → Can I make these brownies nut-free?
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Yes, simply omit the walnuts or replace them with additional chocolate chips for a nut-free version.
