A quick and easy fudgy brownie recipe made with real chocolate, yielding rich, dense, and gooey homemade brownies with a glossy top and soft center.
1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
4 oz semi-sweet chocolate, chopped
3/4 cup granulated sugar
1/4 cup light brown sugar (optional)
2 large eggs, room temperature
1 tsp vanilla extract
1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1/4 tsp salt
Optional: 1 tsp espresso powder, 1/2 cup chopped nuts or chocolate chips
Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C). Line or grease an 8×8-inch pan.
Melt butter and chocolate together until smooth.
Stir in sugars while warm.
Add eggs one at a time, whisking well, then stir in vanilla.
Sift in flour, cocoa powder, and salt. Fold gently.
Add optional extras if using.
Pour into pan and smooth top.
Bake for 30–35 minutes.
Cool before slicing.
Chill before cutting for clean edges.
Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freeze wrapped slices for longer storage.