Hey y’all! If you’ve been craving that perfect brownie without the hassle of a store-bought mix, you’re in for a treat. Our Better Than Box Mix Brownie Recipe is rich, fudgy, and a hit at any gathering, from birthday parties to cozy evenings at home. Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This
- Quick and easy to prepare with minimal cleanup.
- Rich, fudgy texture that chocolate lovers adore.
- Uses simple pantry ingredients you probably already have.
- Perfect balance of sweetness and chocolate intensity.
- Adaptable to various dietary preferences.
Ingredients
- 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/3 cup (40g) cocoa powder
- 1/2 cup (65g) all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
Directions
Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×9-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a medium bowl, combine the melted butter, sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract. Stir vigorously until smooth and well combined.
Combine the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the cocoa powder, flour, salt, and baking powder. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined.
Bake to Perfection
Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. Allow the brownies to cool in the pan before cutting into squares.
Notes
- For an extra chocolatey touch, fold in 1/2 cup of chocolate chips before baking. King Arthur Baking offers great baking tips.
- If you prefer a cakier texture, add an additional egg to the mixture.
- Don’t overbake your brownies as they will continue to cook in the pan even after being removed from the oven.
Variations
- Nutty Brownies: Add 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans for a crunchy texture.
- Mint Chocolate: Stir in 1/4 teaspoon of peppermint extract for a refreshing twist.
- Double Fudge: Drizzle melted chocolate over the cooled brownies for an extra indulgent treat.
Required Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Baking pan (9×9-inch)
- Spatula
- Oven
Storage Instructions
Store the brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze them for up to 2 months and thaw at room temperature before serving.
Suggested Pairings
Pair these brownies with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra special dessert. A glass of cold milk or a hot cup of coffee also complements the rich chocolate flavor beautifully.
Pro Tips
- Always use high-quality cocoa powder for the best flavor. Serious Eats discusses why cocoa quality matters.
- Let the brownies cool completely before cutting to ensure clean edges.
- For even baking, ensure your oven is fully preheated before placing the brownies inside.
FAQ
- Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted? Yes, but reduce the added salt by half to balance the flavor.
- Can I double the recipe? Absolutely! Use a 9×13-inch pan and adjust the baking time as needed.
- How do I know when the brownies are done? They are ready when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.