Easy Brownies Made With Cocoa Powder

There’s something utterly comforting about a warm, fudgy brownie fresh out of the oven. Whether you’re having a cozy night in or entertaining friends, these Easy Brownies Made With Cocoa Powder are the perfect treat to satisfy your sweet tooth. With a simple list of ingredients and straightforward instructions, you can whip up a batch in no time. Let’s dive into the deliciousness!

What You’ll Love About This Recipe

These brownies are rich, decadent, and incredibly easy to make. The use of cocoa powder not only simplifies the process but also gives these brownies an intense chocolate flavor. You’ll appreciate how quickly they come together, and the result is a batch of brownies that are perfectly chewy on the outside yet soft and fudgy on the inside. Plus, you can customize them with your favorite add-ins like chocolate chips or walnuts for an extra crunch!

Ingredients at a Glance

• 10 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 1/4 cups sugar
• 3/4 cup plus 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 2 large eggs
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup chocolate chips (optional)
• 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)

Gear Checklist

• Mixing Bowl: For combining your ingredients.
• Whisk: To mix the batter smoothly.
• Spatula: For scraping down the sides and folding in ingredients.
• Baking Dish: An 8×8 inch square pan works perfectly.
• Parchment Paper: For easy removal of brownies.

Directions: Easy Brownies Made With Cocoa Powder

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your brownies bake evenly from the moment they go in!

Step 2: Prepare the Baking Dish

Line an 8×8 inch baking dish with parchment paper, allowing some overhang for easy removal later. Grease the parchment lightly with a bit of butter or non-stick spray.

Step 3: Melt the Butter

In a medium saucepan, melt the 10 tablespoons of unsalted butter over low heat. Remove it from heat as soon as it’s melted to avoid browning.

Step 4: Combine Sugar and Cocoa

Stir in the 1 1/4 cups of sugar and the 3/4 cup plus 2 tablespoons of cocoa powder into the melted butter until well combined.

Step 5: Add in the Eggs and Vanilla

Mix in the 1 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract and the 2 large eggs, one at a time, whisking until the mixture is smooth and glossy.

Step 6: Incorporate Dry Ingredients

Add the 1/2 teaspoon of salt, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, and 1/2 cup of all-purpose flour to the chocolate mixture. Stir gently until just combined. If you’re adding chocolate chips or walnuts, fold them in now.

Step 7: Pour the Batter

Pour the brownie batter into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly with a spatula.

Step 8: Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick in the center; it should come out with a few moist crumbs but not wet batter.

Step 9: Cool and Slice

Once baked, remove the brownies from the oven and let them cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Using the parchment paper, lift them out and allow them to cool completely on a wire rack. Once cool, slice into squares and enjoy!

In-Season Flavor Ideas

• Add a pinch of espresso powder for a mocha flavor.
• Mix in seasonal spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for warmth.
• Swap out walnuts for pecans or hazelnuts for a different crunch.
• Top with fresh berries or a dollop of whipped cream for a refreshing twist.

Frequent Missteps to Avoid

• Overmixing the batter can lead to tough brownies. Mix until just combined.
• Not measuring ingredients accurately can affect the texture. Use proper measuring cups.
• Opening the oven door too early can disrupt the baking process. Wait until the time is almost up.
• Baking in a too-hot oven can lead to dry brownies. Always preheat your oven properly.

Storing, Freezing & Reheating

Store any leftover brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze them! Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. To enjoy, simply thaw overnight in the fridge or pop them in the microwave for a few seconds to warm them up.

Questions People Ask

Can I use Dutch-process cocoa powder instead of regular cocoa powder?

Yes! Dutch-process cocoa powder will give your brownies a slightly different flavor and might make them a bit darker, but they will still be delicious.

How do I know when my brownies are done baking?

Insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out with a few moist crumbs. If it comes out wet with batter, they need more time. If it comes out completely clean, they may be overbaked.

Can I make these brownies gluten-free?

Absolutely! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. The texture will remain similar, and you won’t miss the gluten!

What can I add to my brownies for extra flavor or texture?

You can add chocolate chips, nuts, or even swirls of peanut butter. For an even more indulgent treat, try adding a layer of Peanut Butter Brownie Swirl Cookies on top before baking!

You Might Also Like

• Brownie Batter Cookie Sandwiches – A unique twist on brownies with cookie goodness!

See You at the Table

These Easy Brownies Made With Cocoa Powder are sure to become a go-to recipe in your household. With their rich chocolate flavor and simple preparation, they make for a delightful dessert or snack any day of the week. Gather your friends and family, slice up those brownies, and enjoy the smiles they bring!