These easy brownies are rich, fudgy, and deeply chocolatey — made in one bowl with pantry staples for a quick, satisfying treat.
½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
1 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 tsp vanilla extract
⅓ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
½ cup all-purpose flour
¼ tsp salt
Optional: ½ cup chocolate chips or chopped nuts
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line an 8×8-inch baking pan.
Melt butter in a medium bowl. Stir in sugar until combined.
Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each. Stir in vanilla.
Sift in cocoa, flour, and salt. Fold gently until just combined.
Stir in optional mix-ins.
Pour batter into pan and spread evenly.
Bake for 22–28 minutes or until a toothpick comes out with moist crumbs.
Cool before slicing.
For a shiny crust, beat eggs and sugar thoroughly.
Add espresso or coffee for richer flavor.
Store in an airtight container up to 4 days, or freeze up to 2 months.