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Fudgy Brownies with Crackly Tops

fudgy brownies with crackly tops - featured image

A simple and indulgent brownie recipe featuring a shiny crackly top and a dense, fudgy interior. Perfect for quick treats or unexpected guests.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled
  • 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs, at room temperature
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
  • 1/3 cup (35g) unsweetened cocoa powder, sifted
  • 1/2 cup (65g) all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • Optional: 1/2 cup (90g) chocolate chunks or chips (dark or semi-sweet)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C) and line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal.
  2. Melt the butter in a microwave-safe bowl or on the stovetop. Let it cool slightly.
  3. In a large bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar and eggs vigorously for about 3-4 minutes until pale and slightly thickened.
  4. Stir in the vanilla extract, then slowly drizzle in the melted butter while whisking gently to combine.
  5. Sift together the cocoa powder, flour, and salt in a separate bowl.
  6. Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture using a spatula, being gentle to keep air in the batter.
  7. If using, fold in the chocolate chunks or chips last.
  8. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the surface with a spatula.
  9. Bake for 25-30 minutes, checking at 25 minutes with a toothpick; it should come out with a few moist crumbs but no raw batter.
  10. Let the brownies cool completely in the pan on a wire rack before lifting out with the parchment paper and cutting.

Notes

Whisk sugar and eggs vigorously to create the crackly top. Melt butter carefully to avoid cooking eggs. Do not overmix after adding flour to keep brownies fudgy. Use an oven thermometer for best results. Variations include adding nuts, peanut butter swirl, espresso powder, or using gluten-free/dairy-free substitutes.

Nutrition

Keywords: fudgy brownies, crackly top brownies, easy brownies, chocolate dessert, quick brownies, homemade brownies