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:
- Preheat the oven to 325℉ (163℃). Grease an 8×8-inch baking pan and line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
- Prepare the dry ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, sugar, and salt until well combined.
- Add wet ingredients: Pour in the oil, eggs, and vanilla extract into the dry ingredients.
- Mix the batter: Stir the mixture until just combined, then mix for an additional 50 strokes. The batter should be dense, smooth, and shiny.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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:
- Quick and Easy: Requires just a few simple ingredients and steps
- Fudgy and Rich: These brownies are dense and moist with a perfect chocolate flavor
- Customizable: You can add extras like nuts, chocolate chips, or a frosting layer
- Minimal Cleanup: Using one bowl makes cleanup a breeze
- 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:
- 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. - 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. - How do I make the brownies fudgier?
To make fudgier brownies, reduce the baking time slightly and avoid overmixing the batter. - 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. - 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!