This fudge brownies recipe is the ultimate treat for chocolate lovers! These rich, gooey brownies with a shiny, crackly top are everything you want in a homemade dessert.
I still remember the first time I made these brownies—it was a Friday night, and my family was craving something sweet. I whipped these up, and by the end of the evening, there wasn’t a crumb left!
Now, they’re my go-to recipe whenever I need a simple, crowd-pleasing dessert. Trust me, these are the best fudge brownies ever, and they’ll quickly become a favorite in your home too.
What’s Inside This Recipe?
Ingredients
To make these delicious brownies, you’ll need a handful of pantry staples. Here’s what to gather:
- 1 cup (120g) all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup (43g) unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon espresso powder (optional, but enhances the chocolate flavor)
- 3/4 cup (170g) unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons (28ml) oil (canola, vegetable, or coconut oil all work)
- 1 and 1/3 cups (265g) granulated sugar (divided)
- 2 large eggs
- 1 large egg yolk
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract (optional, but recommended for extra depth)
- 3/4 cup (128g) chocolate chips
You’ll also need a 9×9-inch baking pan, parchment paper, and non-stick spray for easy cleanup.
How to Make the Best Fudge Brownies Ever
Making brownies from scratch is easier than you think! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have gooey, fudgy brownies with that signature crackly top in no time.
1. Prepare your baking pan
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper, letting the edges hang over for easy lifting later. Lightly spray with non-stick baking spray and set aside.
2. Mix the dry ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, cocoa powder, and espresso powder (if using). This step ensures no lumps and evenly distributes the ingredients. Set aside.
3. Melt the butter mixture
In a medium saucepan, combine the unsalted butter, oil, and 1/3 cup of the granulated sugar. Heat over medium heat, stirring often, until the butter is completely melted. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
4. Whisk the eggs and sugar
In another large mixing bowl, whisk the eggs, egg yolk, vanilla extract (if using), and the remaining 1 cup of granulated sugar. Whisk for about 30 seconds until the mixture is well combined and slightly frothy.
5. Combine wet and dry ingredients
Slowly pour the warm butter mixture into the egg mixture, adding it a little at a time while whisking constantly. This prevents the eggs from scrambling. Once fully combined, gently fold in the dry ingredients and chocolate chips using a rubber spatula. Be careful not to overmix—stop as soon as you no longer see dry flour.
6. Bake to perfection
Pour the brownie batter into your prepared pan, spreading it evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 28-30 minutes, or until the edges are set and the top is shiny and crackly. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out with a few moist crumbs.
7. Cool and slice
Place the pan on a cooling rack and allow the brownies to cool completely before slicing. This step is key to getting clean, picture-perfect pieces.
How to Serve Your Fudge Brownies
These brownies are absolutely divine on their own, but you can take them to the next level with a few extras:
Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream and a drizzle of chocolate sauce for a decadent dessert.
Dust with powdered sugar for a simple, elegant touch.
Pair with fresh berries for a pop of color and flavor contrast.
Storing and Enjoying Leftovers
- If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- For longer storage, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in the freezer for up to 3 months.
- To enjoy frozen brownies, thaw at room temperature or warm in the microwave for a few seconds.
Top Tips for Customizing Your Fudge Brownies
Add mix-ins: Stir in your favorite nuts, like walnuts or pecans, for a crunchy twist.
Make them extra chocolatey: Use a mix of dark, semi-sweet, or milk chocolate chips to customize the flavor.
Go gluten-free: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend.
Skip the coffee: If espresso powder isn’t your thing, leave it out. The brownies will still be rich and delicious.
Your Questions About Fudge Brownies Answered
Can I double this recipe?
Yes! Simply double the ingredients and bake in a 9×13-inch pan. You may need to adjust the baking time slightly—start checking around the 35-minute mark.
Why is my brownie top not crackly?
The crackly top comes from whisking the sugar and eggs thoroughly and introducing enough air. Don’t skip this step!
Can I use salted butter?
You can, but reduce the added salt in the recipe to 1/4 teaspoon to balance the flavors.
What makes these brownies fudgy?
The combination of butter, oil, and minimal flour keeps these brownies moist and fudgy. Avoid overmixing or overbaking to maintain that gooey texture.
A chocolate lover’s dream come true.
These homemade fudge brownies truly are the best brownies ever—rich, gooey, and topped with that irresistible crackly crust. Whether you’re baking for a family gathering, a potluck, or just a cozy night in, this recipe is sure to impress.
I’d love to hear how your brownies turn out! Leave a comment below or tag me on social media to share your baking success. Don’t forget to explore more delicious recipes on WandaRecipes.com for your next kitchen adventure.
Happy baking!
Brownies
Ingredients
- 1 cup 120g all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup 43g unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon espresso powder optional, but enhances the chocolate flavor
- 3/4 cup 170g unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons 28ml oil (canola, vegetable, or coconut oil all work)
- 1 and 1/3 cups 265g granulated sugar (divided)
- 2 large eggs
- 1 large egg yolk
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract optional, but recommended for extra depth
- 3/4 cup 128g chocolate chips
Instructions
Prepare your baking pan
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper, letting the edges hang over for easy lifting later. Lightly spray with non-stick baking spray and set aside.
Mix the dry ingredients
- In a large mixing bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, cocoa powder, and espresso powder (if using). This step ensures no lumps and evenly distributes the ingredients. Set aside.
Melt the butter mixture
- In a medium saucepan, combine the unsalted butter, oil, and 1/3 cup of the granulated sugar. Heat over medium heat, stirring often, until the butter is completely melted. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
Whisk the eggs and sugar
- In another large mixing bowl, whisk the eggs, egg yolk, vanilla extract (if using), and the remaining 1 cup of granulated sugar. Whisk for about 30 seconds until the mixture is well combined and slightly frothy.
Combine wet and dry ingredients
- Slowly pour the warm butter mixture into the egg mixture, adding it a little at a time while whisking constantly. This prevents the eggs from scrambling. Once fully combined, gently fold in the dry ingredients and chocolate chips using a rubber spatula. Be careful not to overmix—stop as soon as you no longer see dry flour.
Bake to perfection
- Pour the brownie batter into your prepared pan, spreading it evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 28-30 minutes, or until the edges are set and the top is shiny and crackly. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out with a few moist crumbs.
Cool and slice
- Place the pan on a cooling rack and allow the brownies to cool completely before slicing. This step is key to getting clean, picture-perfect pieces.
Notes
How to Serve Your Fudge Brownies
These brownies are absolutely divine on their own, but you can take them to the next level with a few extras:- Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream and a drizzle of chocolate sauce for a decadent dessert.
- Dust with powdered sugar for a simple, elegant touch.
- Pair with fresh berries for a pop of color and flavor contrast.
Storing and Enjoying Leftovers
- If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- For longer storage, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in the freezer for up to 3 months.
- To enjoy frozen brownies, thaw at room temperature or warm in the microwave for a few seconds.
