Best-Ever 5 Ingredient Brownies Recipe
Introduction
These Best-Ever 5 Ingredient Brownies are rich, fudgy, and incredibly easy to make. With just a handful of simple ingredients, you can whip up a delicious batch of chocolatey brownies perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned baker, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients
- 2 cups granulated sugar (420 grams)
- 4 large eggs, at room temperature
- 1 cup salted butter, melted (226 grams)
- 2/3 cup cocoa powder (62 grams)
- 3/4 cup all-purpose flour (98 grams)
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract (optional, but recommended)
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350° F. Line a 9×9 metal baking dish with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, combine the sugar and eggs. Beat with an electric mixer on high speed for 3-4 minutes until the sugar dissolves and the mixture feels smooth between your fingers.
- Step 3: Whisk in the melted butter and vanilla extract until fully incorporated.
- Step 4: Add the flour, cocoa powder, and salt. Fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture gently until just combined into a thick batter. Optionally, stir in 1 cup of chocolate chips for extra indulgence.
- Step 5: Pour the batter evenly into the prepared baking dish and bake for 33-38 minutes. Look for a set top and a toothpick inserted in the center to come out with moist crumbs but no wet batter.
- Step 6: Allow the brownies to cool for at least 1 hour before slicing. This helps them set and hold a neat shape. They are delicious warm but will appear underdone if cut too soon.
Tips & Variations
- Using a metal baking dish helps achieve a crispier crust compared to glass or ceramic.
- If you prefer a deeper chocolate flavor, try using Dutch-processed cocoa powder.
- For nutty texture, fold in 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans before baking.
- Sprinkle a pinch of sea salt on top before baking for a sweet and salty contrast.
Storage
Store brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to a week or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat gently in the microwave or let come to room temperature before serving for best texture.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use unsalted butter instead of salted butter?
Yes, you can use unsalted butter but add a little extra salt (about 1/4 tsp) to the batter to balance the flavors.
Why did my brownies turn out dry?
Overbaking is the most common cause of dry brownies. Follow the toothpick test closely and remove brownies as soon as a few moist crumbs remain on the tip. They will continue to set as they cool.
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Best-Ever 5 Ingredient Brownies Recipe
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 9 servings 1x
Description
These best-ever 5 ingredient brownies are a simple, delicious, and classic treat made with staple pantry ingredients. Moist and fudgy with a rich chocolate flavor, these brownies come together quickly and bake to a perfect gooey texture that sets as they cool. Perfect for a quick dessert or an indulgent snack with minimal fuss.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 2/3 cup cocoa powder (62 grams)
- 3/4 cup all-purpose flour (98 grams)
- 1/4 tsp salt
Wet Ingredients
- 2 cups granulated sugar (420 grams)
- 4 large eggs, at room temperature
- 1 cup salted butter, melted (226 grams)
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract (optional)
Instructions
- Make the Brownies: Preheat your oven to 350° F. Line a metal 9×9 baking dish with parchment paper. In a large mixing bowl, add sugar and eggs. Beat with an electric mixer on high for 3-4 minutes until the sugar is almost dissolved (test by rubbing a bit between your fingers to feel if granules remain). Whisk in melted butter and vanilla extract (if using). Add flour, cocoa powder, and salt, folding the mixture until thick batter forms. Optional: Stir in 1 cup chocolate chips if desired.
- Bake the Brownies: Pour batter into the prepared baking dish. Bake for 33-38 minutes. The top should look set and a toothpick inserted into the center will come out with moist crumbs, but no wet batter. The edges will have mostly clean toothpick insertion. Avoid overbaking as the brownies will continue to set as they cool.
- Serve and Store: Let the brownies cool for at least 1 hour before slicing to allow them to set properly. They can be enjoyed warm but will be too soft to cut neatly immediately out of the oven. Once cooled, cut into squares and serve. Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for several days.
Notes
- The recipe technically includes 7 ingredients, but the main focus is on the five staples.
- Using a metal baking dish helps achieve even baking and the perfect brownie crust.
- Do not overbeat the batter once dry ingredients are added to keep brownies fudgy.
- Every oven varies; baking times can differ slightly, so use the toothpick test as your guide.
- Let brownies cool fully for best texture and ease of slicing.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Baking
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: brownies, 5 ingredient brownies, chocolate dessert, easy brownies, fudgy brownies, quick dessert
