Homemade Brownies

Why This Recipe Works: This homemade brownie recipe delivers rich, fudgy brownies with a perfect crackly top. Using melted butter and a combination of cocoa powder and chocolate chips gives these brownies a deep chocolate flavor. The simple ingredients and straightforward method make these brownies easy to whip up anytime a chocolate craving strikes.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup unsalted butter
• 2 1/4 cups granulated sugar
• 1 1/4 cups unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 4 large eggs
• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips

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How to Make This Recipe:

1. Preheat the Oven:
   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper.
2. Melt the Butter:
   • In a large microwave-safe bowl, melt the butter in the microwave. This should take about 1-2 minutes, depending on your microwave’s power.
3. Combine Ingredients:
   • While the butter is still hot, stir in the granulated sugar and cocoa powder until well combined. The mixture will be thick and grainy.
4. Add the Eggs and Vanilla:
   • Beat in the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
5. Mix the Dry Ingredients:
   • In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, and baking powder. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Do not overmix.
6. Add Chocolate Chips:
   • Fold in the semi-sweet chocolate chips.
7. Bake the Brownies:
   • Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly.
   • Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.
8. Cool and Serve:
   • Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack before cutting into squares.

Expert Tips:

• For extra fudgy brownies, slightly underbake them.
• Add nuts or swirl in peanut butter or caramel for variations.

How to Store This Recipe: Store the brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze the brownies for up to 3 months.