Decadent Chocolate Fudge Brownies with Optional Buttercream
Indulge in these ultra-rich, fudgy chocolate brownies that are guaranteed to satisfy your deepest chocolate cravings! With a chewy texture and an intense cocoa flavor, these brownies are perfect for any occasion. Each bite is a heavenly experience, making them the favorite treat at gatherings. For an extra touch of indulgence, consider topping with a velvety buttercream icing for a WOW factor that will have everyone begging for more. You can easily adapt this recipe into delightful brownie bites perfect for parties, or try the Extra Rich Variation for an even more luxurious treat. Don’t forget to let them cool completely before cutting to ensure the ideal texture!
N/A
Servings
160
Calories
9
Ingredients
Ingredients
shortening
1/2 cup (melted)
real butter
1/2 cup (melted)
cocoa powder
1 cup (unsweetened)
sugar
2 cups (granulated)
eggs
4 (large)
vanilla extract
2 teaspoons (pure)
all-purpose flour
1 cup (sifted)
salt
1/2 teaspoon (fine)
nuts
1 cup (optional, chopped)
Instructions
1
Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).
2
Grease a 13x9 inch baking pan with butter or cooking spray.
3
In a saucepan over low heat, melt the shortening and butter together until smooth. Alternatively, you can melt them in the microwave in a microwave-safe bowl.
4
Once melted, remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the cocoa powder until thoroughly combined with a wooden spoon.
5
Gradually add in the sugar, mixing until well blended.
6
Incorporate the eggs one at a time, stirring vigorously after each addition. This step is crucial as it helps create that perfect brownie texture.
7
Stir in the vanilla extract, followed by the flour and salt. Mix gently until just combined, being careful not to overbeat the batter.
8
If desired, fold in the nuts carefully to ensure even distribution throughout the batter.
9
Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly.
10
Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the edges have set and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.
11
Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan before cutting into squares.
Nutrition Information
9g
Fat
20g
Carbs
2g
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Decadent Chocolate Fudge Brownies?
They are ultra-rich, fudgy chocolate brownies known for their chewy texture and intense cocoa flavor, perfect for any occasion.
What is the recommended oven temperature for this recipe?
The oven should be preheated to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).
What size baking pan should I use?
A 13x9 inch baking pan is required for this brownie recipe.
How should I prepare the baking pan?
Grease the pan with butter or cooking spray before adding the batter.
How do I melt the shortening and butter?
You can melt them together in a saucepan over low heat until smooth or use a microwave-safe bowl in the microwave.
When do I add the cocoa powder?
The cocoa powder should be stirred into the melted shortening and butter mixture once it has been removed from the heat.
How many eggs are needed for the brownies?
The recipe calls for 4 large eggs.
Why do I need to add eggs one at a time?
Incorporate eggs one at a time and stir vigorously after each addition to help create the perfect brownie texture.
What type of flour is best for these brownies?
Use 1 cup of sifted all-purpose flour for the best results.
Can I add nuts to this brownie recipe?
Yes, you can optionally fold in 1 cup of chopped nuts before baking.
How long do the brownies need to bake?
Bake the brownies for 25-30 minutes.
How do I know when the brownies are finished baking?
They are done when the edges have set and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.
Why is it important to let the brownies cool before cutting?
Allowing them to cool completely in the pan ensures they reach the ideal texture and don't fall apart when cut.
Can I turn these into brownie bites?
Yes, this recipe is easily adaptable into delightful brownie bites, which are perfect for parties.
Is there a recommended topping for these brownies?
For extra indulgence, you can top the brownies with a velvety buttercream icing.
How many calories are in one serving?
There are approximately 160 calories per serving.
How much fat is in each serving?
Each serving contains 9g of fat.
What is the carbohydrate content per serving?
There are 20g of carbohydrates per serving.
How much protein is in these brownies?
Each serving provides 2g of protein.
What kind of vanilla should I use?
The recipe recommends using 2 teaspoons of pure vanilla extract.
Should the flour be sifted?
Yes, the ingredient list specifies 1 cup of sifted all-purpose flour.
What type of sugar is used in the recipe?
The recipe uses 2 cups of granulated sugar.
Can I use unsweetened cocoa powder?
Yes, the recipe calls for 1 cup of unsweetened cocoa powder.
How many ingredients are in this recipe?
There are 9 primary ingredients: shortening, butter, cocoa powder, sugar, eggs, vanilla, flour, salt, and optional nuts.
What is the 'Extra Rich Variation' mentioned?
The description suggests the recipe can be tweaked for a more luxurious treat, though the base recipe is already decadent.
Is salt necessary in this sweet recipe?
Yes, 1/2 teaspoon of fine salt is used to balance the sweetness and enhance the chocolate flavor.
Should I use a specific type of spoon for mixing?
A wooden spoon is recommended for stirring in the cocoa powder.
What is the key to preventing the brownies from being too cake-like?
Mixing the flour and salt gently until just combined and avoiding overbeating helps maintain the fudgy texture.
Can I use salted butter?
The recipe specifies 'real butter.' If you use salted butter, you may want to slightly reduce the additional fine salt.
What makes these brownies suitable for gatherings?
Their rich flavor, ease of preparation, and the ability to cut them into many squares or bites make them an ideal party treat.