Rich Cocoa Brownies

These rich cocoa brownies are indulgent, fudgy, and incredibly easy to make. With just a few simple ingredients, you’ll have a batch of delicious, chocolatey treats perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving them for dessert or enjoying them as a snack, these brownies will satisfy every chocolate lover’s craving.

Preparation Time:

  • Prep time: 10 minutes
  • Cook time: 40-45 minutes
  • Total time: 55 minutes

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup (130g) all-purpose flour
  • ¾ cup (75g) unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 2 cups (400g) sugar
  • ½ teaspoon fine salt
  • ¾ cup neutral oil (such as vegetable or canola oil)
  • 4 large eggs
  • 1 tablespoon vanilla extract

Directions:

  1. Preheat the oven to 325℉ (163℃). Grease an 8×8-inch baking pan and line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
  2. Prepare the dry ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, sugar, and salt until well combined.
  3. Add wet ingredients: Pour in the oil, eggs, and vanilla extract into the dry ingredients.
  4. Mix the batter: Stir the mixture until just combined, then mix for an additional 50 strokes. The batter should be dense, smooth, and shiny.
  5. Prepare for baking: Spread the batter evenly into the prepared baking pan. Tap the pan on the counter a few times to release any trapped air bubbles.
  6. Bake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 40-45 minutes. Insert a toothpick halfway between the edge and the center to test doneness. The toothpick should come out with a few crumbs, but no wet batter.
  7. Cool and serve: Allow the brownies to cool completely before cutting for clean slices. Cut into desired sizes and enjoy!

Serving Suggestions:

  • Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream
  • Dust with powdered sugar for a simple, elegant touch
  • Top with whipped cream and fresh berries for a dessert-like presentation
  • Drizzle with chocolate or caramel sauce for extra indulgence
  • Pair with a cold glass of milk or a hot cup of coffee

Cooking Tips:

  • Scrunching up the parchment paper before placing it in the pan helps it stay in place
  • For extra fudgy brownies, bake for the lower end of the time range
  • To make clean cuts, use a sharp knife and wipe it between each slice
  • Let the brownies cool completely before cutting to ensure they hold their shape
  • You can add chocolate chips or chopped nuts to the batter for extra texture

Nutritional Benefits:

  • Cocoa: Rich in antioxidants and may support heart health
  • Eggs: Provide protein and essential vitamins
  • Oil: Adds moisture to the brownies without using butter
  • Sugar: Balances the bitterness of the cocoa and gives structure to the brownies

Dietary Information:

  • Vegetarian: This recipe is suitable for vegetarians
  • Nut-Free: Safe for those with nut allergies
  • Dairy-Free: Contains no dairy, making it suitable for those avoiding dairy products
  • Gluten-Free Option: Substitute the all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version
  • Low Sugar Option: You can reduce the sugar slightly or use a sugar substitute to make it lower in sugar

Nutritional Facts (per serving, based on 16 servings):

  • Calories: 270 kcal
  • Protein: 3g
  • Carbohydrates: 38g
  • Fat: 13g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Sugar: 28g

Storage:

  • Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days
  • Fridge: For a firmer texture, store the brownies in the refrigerator for up to 1 week
  • Freezer: Freeze brownies individually wrapped in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

  1. Quick and Easy: Requires just a few simple ingredients and steps
  2. Fudgy and Rich: These brownies are dense and moist with a perfect chocolate flavor
  3. Customizable: You can add extras like nuts, chocolate chips, or a frosting layer
  4. Minimal Cleanup: Using one bowl makes cleanup a breeze
  5. Great for Any Occasion: Whether for a party or a casual snack, these brownies are always a hit

Conclusion:

These rich cocoa brownies are a classic, no-fuss dessert that will satisfy any sweet tooth. The combination of a smooth, fudgy texture and deep chocolate flavor makes them irresistible. With easy-to-find ingredients and straightforward instructions, this recipe is perfect for both beginner and experienced bakers alike. Make a batch today and enjoy the deliciousness of homemade brownies with your family and friends!

Frequently Asked Questions:

  1. Can I substitute the oil with butter?
    Yes, you can substitute an equal amount of melted butter for the oil if you prefer a buttery flavor.
  2. Can I add chocolate chips or nuts?
    Absolutely! You can stir in ½ cup of chocolate chips, nuts, or even dried fruits into the batter before baking.
  3. How do I make the brownies fudgier?
    To make fudgier brownies, reduce the baking time slightly and avoid overmixing the batter.
  4. Can I use a different size pan?
    If you use a larger pan, the brownies will be thinner, and you should reduce the baking time accordingly. For a 9×9 pan, reduce baking time by about 5 minutes.
  5. How do I know when the brownies are done?
    Insert a toothpick into the center or a little off-center. If it comes out with a few moist crumbs but no wet batter, your brownies are done.

Enjoy baking these decadent Cocoa Brownies!