These fudgy homemade brownies are rich, chocolatey, and perfectly chewy with a shiny crackle top. Easy to make and endlessly customizable.
1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
1 cup granulated sugar
1/4 cup brown sugar (optional)
2 large eggs
1 tsp vanilla extract
1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder (Dutch-process preferred)
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1/4 tsp salt
3/4 cup semi-sweet chocolate chunks or chips
Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C). Line an 8×8-inch pan with parchment paper.
Melt butter in a saucepan or microwave-safe bowl. Whisk in sugars until smooth.
Let cool slightly, then whisk in eggs one at a time. Add vanilla and mix well.
Sift in cocoa powder and salt. Stir until fully combined.
Fold in flour gently until just incorporated.
Add chocolate chunks and stir once more.
Spread batter into pan. Bake for 28–35 minutes.
Cool completely before slicing.
For gluten-free, substitute a 1:1 GF flour blend.
Add-ins: walnuts, espresso powder, or caramel swirls.
Store in airtight container up to 4 days or freeze.