These fudge brownies are rich, chewy, and loaded with deep chocolate flavor. With a crackly top and a soft, fudgy center, they’re the perfect indulgence for any chocolate lover. Made with simple ingredients, they come together quickly in just one bowl. Whether for a party, a bake sale, or a cozy night in, these brownies never disappoint. Get ready for the ultimate homemade treat.
Ingredients
(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, plus more for greasing the pan
1 cup granulated sugar
¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder (preferably Dutch-processed)
¼ teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 large eggs
½ cup all-purpose flour
½ cup semi-sweet chocolate chips (optional)
Directions
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line an 8x8 or 9x9-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal.
In a large bowl, melt the butter. Stir in the sugar until well combined.
Whisk in the cocoa powder and salt until smooth.
Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.
Gradually add the flour, mixing until just combined. Stir in the chocolate chips (if using).
Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly.
Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs (not completely clean).
Let the brownies cool completely in the pan before cutting into squares.
Servings and Timing
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Total Time: 40-45 minutes
Servings: 16-20 brownies
Calories: Approximately 180 kcal per brownie
Variations
Nutty Brownies – Stir in ½ cup of chopped walnuts or pecans for a crunchy texture.
Salted Caramel Brownies – Drizzle caramel sauce over the batter before baking and sprinkle with sea salt.
Espresso Brownies – Add 1 teaspoon of instant espresso powder to enhance the chocolate flavor.
Peanut Butter Swirl – Swirl in ¼ cup of peanut butter before baking for a delicious peanut butter-chocolate combo.
Double Chocolate Brownies – Use both semi-sweet and dark chocolate chips for an extra-rich treat.
Storage/Reheating
Room Temperature: Store brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days.
Refrigerator: Keep in the fridge for up to a week for a firmer texture.
Freezer: Wrap brownies individually and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature or microwave for 10-15 seconds before serving.
Reheating: Warm in the microwave for 10-15 seconds for that fresh-out-of-the-oven taste.
FAQs
How do I know when the brownies are done?
I check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center. If it comes out with a few moist crumbs (but not raw batter), the brownies are ready.
Can I use oil instead of butter?
Yes, but the texture and flavor will change slightly. Butter adds richness, while oil makes them extra moist.
Why are my brownies too dry?
Overbaking is the most common reason. I always start checking at 25 minutes to avoid drying them out.
Can I make these brownies gluten-free?
Yes! I swap the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for the best results.
What’s the best way to get clean brownie slices?
I use a sharp knife and wipe it clean after each cut. Chilling the brownies before slicing also helps get neat edges.
Conclusion
These homemade fudge brownies are rich, decadent, and incredibly easy to make. Whether I keep them classic or experiment with fun add-ins, they always turn out delicious. They are the perfect go-to treat for any chocolate lover, and I love how simple they are to whip up whenever a craving strikes.
Recipe:
Fudge Brownies
- Total Time: 40-45 minutes
- Yield: 16-20 brownies
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Rich, fudgy, and irresistibly chocolatey, these homemade fudge brownies are the ultimate indulgence. With a deep cocoa flavor, chewy texture, and a classic crackly top, they’re easy to make with simple ingredients. Perfect for bake sales, parties, or a cozy night in, these brownies will satisfy any chocolate craving.
Ingredients
½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, plus more for greasing
1 cup granulated sugar
¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder (preferably Dutch-processed)
¼ teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 large eggs
½ cup all-purpose flour
½ cup semi-sweet chocolate chips (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat & Prepare – Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line an 8x8 or 9x9-inch pan with parchment paper.
- Melt Butter & Mix – In a large bowl, melt butter. Stir in sugar until combined.
- Add Cocoa & Eggs – Whisk in cocoa powder and salt. Beat in eggs one at a time, then stir in vanilla extract.
- Incorporate Flour – Gradually mix in flour until just combined. Fold in chocolate chips, if using.
- Bake – Pour batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly. Bake for 25-30 minutes, until a toothpick inserted comes out with moist crumbs.
- Cool & Serve – Let brownies cool completely before slicing.
Notes
Start checking for doneness at 25 minutes to prevent overbaking.
For clean slices, chill brownies before cutting and wipe the knife clean between cuts.
Experiment with add-ins like nuts, caramel, or peanut butter swirls for variety.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 16-20 brownies
- Calories: 180 kcal per brownie
