Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
Optional Add-Ins:
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup chopped nuts (e.g., walnuts, pecans)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a 9×9-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper.
2. Melt the Butter:
- In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
3. Mix Wet Ingredients:
- Stir in the sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract into the melted butter until well combined.
4. Add Dry Ingredients:
- Sift together the cocoa powder, flour, salt, and baking powder in a separate bowl.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Do not overmix.
5. Add Optional Ingredients:
- If using, fold in the chocolate chips and chopped nuts.
6. Bake the Brownies:
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. Do not overbake for fudgier brownies.
7. Cool and Serve:
- Allow the brownies to cool in the pan on a wire rack before cutting them into squares.
- Serve as is or with a scoop of ice cream for an extra treat.
Enjoy your easy, homemade chocolate brownies! They are perfect for any occasion and sure to satisfy your chocolate cravings.
