: These are the ultimate fudgy brownies — thick, rich, with a crackly top and melt-in-your-mouth center. One bowl, simple ingredients, and bakery-level results.
1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
4 oz dark chocolate, chopped
3/4 cup granulated sugar
1/4 cup light brown sugar (optional)
2 large eggs
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 chocolate chips or chopped nuts
Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C). Line an 8×8-inch pan with parchment.
Melt butter and chocolate together until smooth. Let cool slightly.
Stir in sugars and vanilla.
Add eggs one at a time, whisking well after each.
Sift in cocoa, flour, and salt. Fold until just combined.
Fold in extras if using.
Pour into pan and bake 30–35 minutes, until center is just set.
Cool completely. Chill for clean slices.
Underbake slightly for extra gooeyness.
For neat squares, chill for 1 hour before slicing.
Store airtight at room temp or freeze for later.