If you're on a quest for the perfect brownie, you've just hit the jackpot! These Traditional Fudge Brownies are rich, chewy, and packed with deep chocolate flavor, making them an irresistible treat for any occasion.
Butter adds richness and moisture, helping to create that fudgy texture we all love. Sugar sweetens the batter, balancing the cocoa's bitterness. Flour provides structure, but too much can make brownies cakey, so measure carefully. Cocoa powder is where the deep chocolate flavor comes from, so choose a quality brand. Vanilla extract enhances the chocolate flavor, adding depth and warmth. Salt highlights the sweetness and balances flavors. Eggs act as a binder, giving the brownies their chewy texture. Lastly, semi-sweet chocolate chips add bursts of chocolate goodness throughout each bite.
Pair these brownies with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a classic dessert combo. For a decadent twist, drizzle with caramel or hot fudge sauce. They're also delightful with a dollop of whipped cream and fresh berries for a touch of freshness.
First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) so it's nice and hot when you're ready to bake. Take a 9x13-inch baking pan and give it a good greasing, or line it with parchment paper if you prefer easy cleanup.
Next, grab a medium saucepan and melt your butter over medium heat. Once it's completely melted, remove it from the heat and stir in the sugar, cocoa powder, and salt. Mix until everything's well combined and smooth. Let this mixture cool slightly—this step is crucial to avoid scrambling the eggs later on.
Once cooled a bit, add the vanilla extract, followed by the eggs, one at a time. Mix well after each addition to ensure a smooth batter. Now, gently fold in the flour. Be careful not to overmix; just combine until you don't see any more streaks of flour.
Stir in those delightful semi-sweet chocolate chips, then pour your batter into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Pop it into the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. You'll know they're done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs attached.
Let the brownies cool in the pan before slicing them into squares. This cooling time is important as it helps the brownies set up to the perfect fudgy texture.