Easy Homemade Brownie Recipe

There’s nothing quite like biting into a warm, freshly baked brownie, especially when it’s made from scratch. Our easy homemade brownie recipe embraces rich chocolate for an indulgent yet simple dessert. Whether you’re a novice baker or a seasoned pro, this recipe is sure to satisfy your dessert cravings and wow your family and friends.
As a child, weekend afternoons in our home meant one thing: the smell of brownies baking. My grandmother would put on her apron and we would gather in the kitchen, mixing ingredients with laughter echoing around us. That warm sense of home and nostalgia is what I aim to share with you through this delightful recipe. It’s more than just a brownie; it’s a slice of cherished memories.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe stands out because of its simplicity and delightful taste. With minimal ingredients and just a few steps, you can create a dessert that’s rich, gooey, and full of chocolatey goodness. Perfect for any occasion, these brownies are not only delicious but also quick and easy to make, making them an ideal choice for last-minute gatherings or mid-week treats.
Ingredients Notes
Using high-quality baking chocolate will elevate the flavors of your brownies. If you’re in a pinch, you can substitute with chocolate chips, though the richness may vary slightly. Remember to let your eggs reach room temperature before mixing to ensure a smooth batter. For a nutty twist, fold in some chopped walnuts or pecans before baking.
Recipe Steps
Step 1
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving extra paper hanging over the sides for easy removal.
Step 2
In a saucepan over low heat, melt 1/2 cup of unsalted butter. Once melted, add 8oz of chopped semisweet chocolate, stirring until fully combined and smooth.
Step 3
Remove the saucepan from heat and whisk in 1 cup of granulated sugar and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Stir in two large eggs, one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next.
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Step 4
In a separate bowl, mix 1/2 cup of all-purpose flour and a pinch of salt. Gradually fold these dry ingredients into the chocolate mixture just until combined. Be careful not to overmix.
Step 5
Pour the batter into your prepared baking pan, spreading evenly. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. Allow the brownies to cool in the pan before lifting them out using the parchment paper overhang.
Storage Options
These brownies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. To freeze, wrap individual brownie pieces in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored this way for up to two months. When you’re ready to indulge, thaw at room temperature or warm in the microwave for a freshly baked taste.
Variations & Substitutions
For a healthier twist, you can substitute half of the butter with Greek yogurt or unsweetened applesauce, which will add moisture without extra fat. To please a crowd, consider adding peanut butter swirls or a handful of chocolate chips to the batter before baking.
Serving Suggestions
These brownies are a fantastic addition to any party or a sweet ending to a holiday dinner. Serve them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. For an extra touch, drizzle melted chocolate or caramel sauce over the top.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use dark chocolate instead of semisweet chocolate? Absolutely! Dark chocolate will give the brownies a more intense, bittersweet flavor. Adjust the amount of sugar slightly if you prefer a sweeter taste.
What should I do if my brownies are too gooey? Try extending the baking time in 5-minute increments until the desired texture is reached. Remember, they will set more as they cool, so a little fudginess is okay.
Is it possible to make these brownies gluten-free? Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Just ensure that your other ingredients, like chocolate and vanilla extract, are certified gluten-free.

Easy Homemade Brownie Recipe
Ingredients
- 1/2 lb 2 sticks unsalted butter
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 3/4 cup brown sugar packed
- 4 oz semisweet chocolate chopped or chips
- 3 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- Optional: 1/2 cup chocolate chips or chopped walnuts for mixing in
Instructions
- Preheat Oven:
- Set oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9x9-inch baking pan with parchment or lightly grease it.
- Melt Butter & Chocolate:
- In a saucepan over low heat (or in the microwave), melt butter with chopped chocolate. Stir until smooth. Let cool slightly.
- Mix Wet Ingredients:
- In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, both sugars, and vanilla. Slowly stir in the melted chocolate-butter mixture.
- Add Dry Ingredients:
- In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, salt, and baking powder. Gently fold into the wet mixture until just combined.
- Optional Add-Ins:
- Fold in chocolate chips or nuts, if using.
- Bake:
- Pour the batter into your prepared pan and smooth the top. Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted near the center comes out with moist crumbs (not wet batter).
- Cool & Slice:
- Allow to cool in the pan for at least 20 minutes before slicing into squares.