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The Baked Brownies

The Baked Brownies - Simple Food Dishes

Brownies are the embodiment of comfort food. They hold a special place in the hearts (and stomachs) of many. Some folks enjoy the classic chewiness, while others revel in the fudginess. Whether you’re baking for a family gathering or for your own sweet tooth, a great brownie recipe is a must-have in your culinary toolkit.
As I reflect on my own journey with baking brownies, I recall the various attempts that resulted in both triumphs and disastrous desserts. From the first time I attempted my grandma's recipe—too dry, I learned quickly—the journey has been filled with learning, experimenting, and pure joy.
Let’s explore the allure of baked brownies further. Specifically, we'll tackle what sets this recipe apart, what wonderful flavors you'll experience, and how you can whip up a batch that even your toughest critics (hi, cousin Tom) will love.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 24
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Calories: 300
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 11 ounces bittersweet dark chocolate, roughly chopped 311.85 g
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, diced into 1-inch cubes 227 g
  • 1 1/4 cups plain all-purpose flour 156.25 g
  • 1 teaspoon fine sea salt
  • 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder, natural or Dutch-processed
  • 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar 300 g
  • 1/2 cup firmly packed light brown sugar 110 g
  • 5 large eggs, at room temperature
  • 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
  • 1 teaspoon instant espresso powder, optional but highly recommended for depth
  • 1/2 teaspoon almond extract, a newer addition for subtle nuttiness
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon, adds warmth and enhances the chocolate

Method
 

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
  1. First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step ensures optimal baking conditions, helping your brownies rise and set properly.
Step 2: Prepare Your Baking Dish
  1. Next, grease a 9x13-inch baking pan with a touch of butter or line it with parchment paper. This will make it easier to remove the brownies later.
Step 3: Melt Chocolate and Butter
  1. In a microwave-safe bowl (or over a double boiler if you’re feeling fancy), combine the chopped dark chocolate and butter. Heat in short bursts—15 to 30 seconds at a time—stirring in between. You want it to melt smoothly without burning.
Step 4: Mix the Sugars
  1. Once melted, remove the bowl from heat and add both granulated and brown sugar. Stir until fully combined, allowing the sugars to dissolve slightly.
Step 5: Add the Eggs
  1. Next, crack in the eggs, one at a time, mixing until just blended after each addition. This process adds air but remember, don’t overmix.
Step 6: Incorporate the Extracts
  1. Pour in the vanilla, almond extract, and espresso powder. Blend these in gently, making sure the flavors are evenly distributed.
Step 7: Add Dry Ingredients
  1. Now, sift together the flour, salt, cocoa powder, and ground cinnamon in a separate bowl. Gradually fold these dry ingredients into your wet mixture. Stir gently until just combined; be careful not to overwork the batter.
Step 8: Pour into the Baking Dish
  1. Pour the brownie batter into your prepped baking dish. Use a spatula to spread it evenly.
Step 9: Bake
  1. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center. If it comes out with a few moist crumbs, you’re good to go!
Step 10: Cool and Serve
  1. Let the brownies cool in the pan for at least 30 minutes before cutting them into squares. This wait will help them set, ensuring a cleaner cut.

Notes

  • Use Quality Chocolate: Higher cocoa content means better flavor.
  • Room Temperature Eggs: They blend more easily, contributing to a smoother batter.
  • Don’t Overmix: Mixing too much can create a cake-like texture. We want fudgy!
  • Check Early: Ovens can vary. Start checking your brownies around the 20-minute mark.
  • Enhance with Add-Ins: Nuts, chocolate chips, or even dried fruit can add an extra layer of delight.