Best Ever Chewy Brownies

Welcome to the world of homemade brownies that rival any boxed mix! If you’re a fan of rich, chocolatey, and irresistibly chewy brownies, you’re in for a treat.

Inspired by the popular Handle the Heat recipe, we’ve crafted a version that’s just as delightful and easy to whip up. In less than an hour, you can transform simple ingredients into a batch of the best chewy brownies you’ve ever tasted. Let’s embark on this sweet journey together!

What sets these brownies apart is their perfect balance of chewiness and deep chocolate flavor. Unlike the often one-dimensional taste of boxed brownies, our recipe packs a more robust chocolate punch, thanks to a carefully curated blend of ingredients.

Each bite is a harmonious symphony of textures and tastes, ensuring that these brownies will be a hit at any gathering or a cozy night in.

Ingredients:

To create these mouthwatering brownies, you’ll need:

5 tablespoons (71 grams) unsalted butter: Adds richness and depth.
1 1/4 cups (249 grams) granulated sugar: For the perfect sweetness.
2 large eggs plus 1 egg yolk, cold: Eggs provide structure, while the extra yolk enhances chewiness.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract: A hint of vanilla elevates the chocolate flavor.
1/3 cup vegetable oil: Ensures moistness and contributes to the chewy texture.
3/4 cup (75 grams) unsweetened cocoa powder: The heart of the chocolate flavor.
1/2 cup (63 grams) all-purpose flour: Gives body without making the brownies cakey.
1/8 teaspoon baking soda: A touch for the right lift.
1 tablespoon cornstarch: The secret to that perfect chewy texture.
1/4 teaspoon salt: Balances and enhances flavors.
3/4 cup (128 grams) semisweet chocolate chips: For gooey, melty chocolate pockets.

Equipments:

Before you start, make sure you have the following tools on hand:

An 8 by 8-inch baking pan: The ideal size for thick, chewy brownies.
Foil or parchment paper: For easy removal and clean-up.
Nonstick cooking spray: To prevent sticking.
A microwave-safe bowl: For melting butter and sugar.
A whisk and rubber spatula: Essential for mixing ingredients smoothly.
An oven: Preheated to the right temperature.

With your ingredients and equipment ready, you’re all set to create the most delectable chewy brownies.

Step-by-Step Baking Guide:

Preheat and Prepare: Begin by preheating your oven to 325°F (163°C). This temperature is key for slowly baking the brownies to chewy perfection. While the oven heats, line your 8 by 8-inch baking pan with foil or parchment paper, ensuring it overhangs slightly for easy removal. Lightly spray the lining with nonstick cooking spray.
Melt and Mix: In your microwave-safe bowl, combine 5 tablespoons of unsalted butter with 1 1/4 cups of granulated sugar. Microwave this mixture for about 1 minute or until the butter is completely melted. The warmth from the butter will help dissolve the sugar, creating a smooth base.
Incorporate Eggs and Vanilla: To the melted butter and sugar, briskly whisk in 2 large eggs, 1 additional egg yolk, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. The cold eggs will bring down the temperature, preventing the eggs from cooking. This step is crucial for adding moisture and richness to your brownies.
Add Oil and Cocoa: Stir in 1/3 cup of vegetable oil followed by 3/4 cup of unsweetened cocoa powder. The oil contributes to the chewy texture, while the cocoa powder infuses the batter with a deep chocolate flavor. Mix until just combined to avoid overworking the batter.
Dry Ingredients: Gently fold in 1/2 cup of all-purpose flour, 1/8 teaspoon of baking soda, 1 tablespoon of cornstarch, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt. The cornstarch is a little trick that enhances the chewiness, while the small amount of baking soda provides just enough lift.
Chocolate Chips: Finally, stir in 3/4 cup of semisweet chocolate chips. These not only add pockets of melted chocolate but also contribute to the glossy top that brownie lovers adore.
Bake to Perfection: Spread the batter evenly into your prepared pan. Place it in the oven and bake for 30 minutes. It’s important not to overbake; the brownies should be set, and a cake tester inserted into the center should come out with moist crumbs attached. This ensures that your brownies will be wonderfully chewy and moist.
Cool and Enjoy: After baking, allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan. This patience is key as it lets the brownies set and develop their texture. Once cooled, lift them out using the overhanging foil or parchment, cut into your desired size, and indulge in the chewy, chocolatey goodness.

Baking Tips:

Understanding the science behind these chewy brownies enhances your baking experience. The combination of butter and oil provides both flavor and a tender texture. Butter adds richness, while oil keeps the brownies moist and chewy.

The use of both granulated sugar and cornstarch contributes to the fudgy, dense texture. Sugar not only sweetens the brownies but also helps in creating a soft texture, while cornstarch prevents the formation of too much gluten, ensuring the brownies remain chewy rather than cakey.

The cold eggs slow down the baking process slightly, allowing the brownies to cook evenly without becoming dry. Lastly, the minimal use of baking soda ensures just enough rise without making the brownies too airy or cake-like.

With these steps and science in mind, you’re well on your way to baking the most delightful chewy brownies.

Customization:

Your chewy brownies are a canvas for creativity. Here are some suggestions to make them uniquely yours:

Nutty Delight: Add 3/4 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans for a crunchy contrast. Toasting the nuts beforehand can enhance their flavor.

Chocolate Variations: Experiment with different types of chocolate chips, such as dark or milk chocolate, for varying sweetness and depth.

Swirls and Toppings: Consider swirling in caramel or peanut butter, or topping with a sprinkle of sea salt or crushed candy for an extra flavor dimension.

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Nutritions:

For those curious about the nutritional aspects of these delicious chewy brownies, here’s a breakdown per serving, assuming the recipe yields 16 small brownies:

Calories: Approximately 200-250 calories per brownie.
Fat: About 11-14 grams, with a mix of saturated and unsaturated fats from the butter, oil, and chocolate chips.
Carbohydrates: Roughly 25-30 grams, predominantly from sugar and flour.
Protein: Around 2-3 grams per serving, contributed by the eggs.
Fiber: Approximately 1-2 grams, thanks to the cocoa powder.
Sugar: About 15-20 grams, both from granulated sugar and chocolate chips.

Please note that these values are approximate and can vary based on specific ingredient brands and any additional modifications to the recipe.

Serving and Storage:

Cutting Perfection: For clean cuts, use a sharp knife and wipe it clean after each slice. If you prefer softer edges, cut the brownies while they are slightly warm.

Serving Suggestions: Serve these brownies as is, or elevate them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream and a drizzle of chocolate sauce for a classic brownie sundae.

Storage: Store the brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. They can also be refrigerated for up to 5 days, which makes them even fudgier.

Tips:

Beverage Pairings: Enjoy your brownies with a glass of cold milk, a cup of coffee, or even a red wine that complements the rich chocolate flavor.

Dessert Combinations: Pair these brownies with a scoop of raspberry sorbet for a refreshing contrast or layer them in a trifle with whipped cream and fresh berries for an elegant dessert.

These chewy brownies are more than just a treat; they’re a testament to the joy of baking and the magic of simple ingredients coming together to create something extraordinary. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or new to the kitchen, this recipe is sure to bring smiles and satisfaction.

Happy baking!