Best Ever Chewy Brownies: The Ultimate Chocolate Lover’s Dream
There’s something undeniably comforting about biting into a rich, chewy brownie. Whether you prefer the fudgy middle pieces or the slightly crisp edges, the perfect brownie is an irresistible treat that never goes out of style. This recipe and guide are all about creating the best ever chewy brownies the kind that make you abandon boxed mixes forever. With a crackly top, dense chocolatey interior, and deep cocoa flavour, these brownies strike the ideal balance between fudgy and chewy.
Why You’ll Love These Best Ever Chewy Brownies
- Chewy Texture: The perfect middle ground between cakey and fudgy.
- Deep Chocolate Flavour: Using both cocoa powder and melted chocolate gives these brownies a rich, complex taste.
- Shiny, Crackly Top: That coveted brownie finish, thanks to proper sugar melting.
- Easy to Make: Simple pantry ingredients and one bowl no fuss!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s everything you need for chewy brownie perfection:
- 150g unsalted butter
- 200g granulated sugar
- 100g light brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 80g unsweetened cocoa powder (preferably Dutch-processed)
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 65g plain flour
- 100g dark chocolate (chopped or chips)
- Optional: 50g chopped walnuts or pecans
Step-by-Step Method
Step 1: Melt Butter and Sugar
In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Once melted, stir in the granulated and brown sugars. Continue heating for 1–2 minutes until the mixture looks glossy and the sugar begins to dissolve—this helps achieve that shiny crackly top.
Step 2: Whisk in Eggs and Vanilla
Let the sugar mixture cool for a couple of minutes, then whisk in the eggs one at a time. Beat well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
Step 3: Add Dry Ingredients
Sift in the cocoa powder, flour, and salt. Mix gently until just combined—don’t overmix, or your brownies may become cakey.
Step 4: Stir in Chocolate and Nuts
Fold in the chopped dark chocolate and nuts if using. The added chocolate melts into gooey pockets of joy, enhancing the chew.
Step 5: Bake
Preheat oven to 175°C (fan 160°C) and line an 8×8 inch (20cm) square baking tin with parchment paper. Pour in the batter and spread it evenly. Bake for 22–28 minutes, depending on how fudgy you like them. The edges should be set and the middle slightly soft.
Step 6: Cool and Slice
Allow to cool completely in the tin for best texture. Then lift out and slice into squares. Enjoy as is, or warm them up with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Tips for the Perfect Chewy Brownies
- Don’t Overbake: A slightly underdone centre gives you that chewy, fudgy bite. The brownies will continue to cook slightly as they cool.
- Use Quality Cocoa and Chocolate: This makes all the difference in flavour.
- Beat the Eggs Well: This incorporates air and gives your brownies a delicate top crust.
- Chill Before Cutting: For clean, defined squares, refrigerate the brownies for an hour before slicing.
Variations to Try
- Espresso Brownies: Add 1 tsp instant espresso powder to deepen the chocolate notes.
- Salted Caramel Swirl: Drop dollops of salted caramel sauce over the top before baking and swirl gently with a knife.
- Peanut Butter Brownies: Swirl in 3 tbsp of creamy peanut butter for a rich twist.
- Raspberry Brownies: Add fresh or frozen raspberries before baking for bursts of tart sweetness.
How to Store Brownies
- At Room Temperature: Keep in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- In the Fridge: Store for up to a week; let come to room temp before serving for best texture.
- Freeze: Wrap individual slices in clingfilm and store in a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight or microwave gently.
Serving Ideas
- Warm a brownie and top with vanilla ice cream and hot fudge sauce.
- Crumble into Greek yoghurt for a decadent parfait.
- Serve with coffee or milk for the ultimate afternoon treat.
Final Thoughts
These best ever chewy brownies are an absolute crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re baking for a party, a picnic, or just a midnight snack, they hit the sweet spot every time. Once you try this recipe, you’ll never go back to boxed brownies again.