These rich, fudgy brownies are made with real chocolate, cocoa powder, and pantry staples — yielding chewy edges, gooey centers, and a signature crackly top.
½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
4 oz semi-sweet chocolate, chopped
1 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs, room temperature
1 tsp vanilla extract
¼ tsp salt
⅓ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
½ cup all-purpose flour
Optional: ½ cup chocolate chips or chopped nuts
Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C). Line an 8×8-inch metal pan with parchment paper.
In a saucepan, melt butter and chopped chocolate over low heat, stirring until smooth. Let cool slightly.
Whisk in sugar, then add eggs one at a time, beating well after each.
Stir in vanilla and salt.
Sift in cocoa powder and flour. Fold gently until just combined.
Pour into pan and smooth top. Add optional toppings if desired.
Bake for 28–32 minutes, until center is set but still soft.
Cool in pan before cutting.
Substitute with coconut oil and flax eggs for vegan version.
For extra richness, add a pinch of espresso powder.
Store at room temp for 3 days or freeze up to 3 months.