Brownies, the iconic dessert squares we know and love today, have a history dating back to the late 19th century in the United States. Their origin is somewhat mysterious, with theories suggesting they were born from a baking mishap. The first published brownie recipe appeared in an 1897 catalog, featuring a simple mixture of cocoa, butter, sugar, and eggs. As the 20th century unfolded, brownies gained popularity due to their simplicity and deliciousness, and they became a favorite for bake sales and social gatherings. Over time, brownie recipes evolved to include various flavors, textures, and ingredients, and today, they remain a beloved dessert worldwide, continually adapted and enjoyed in countless delightful variations.
Nutrition Facts (per serving):
Calories: ~250
Total Fat: 12g
Cholesterol: 60mg
Sodium: 120mg
Total Carbohydrates: 35g
Dietary Fiber: 2g
Sugars: 24g
Protein: 3g
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 30-45 minutes
Total Time: 45-60 minutes
Servings: 18 brownies
Please note that these values are approximate and can vary depending on the specific brands and quantities of ingredients you use. Additionally, the nutrition facts can change if you adjust the recipe or serving size. Be sure to check product labels and use a nutrition calculator for precise values, especially if you have specific dietary requirements or restrictions.
Ingredients:
¾ cup Butter or margarine
1 ½ - 2 cups Sugar (brown or white)
3 pcs Eggs
½ tbsp. Vanilla extract
1 cup All-purpose flour
½ cup Unsweetened cocoa powder
½ tsp Baking soda
½ tsp Coffee powder (optional)
¼ tsp Salt
½ - 1 cup Mix-ins: nuts, dark chocolate chips (optional)
Directions:
Step 1:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) for 15 minutes. While it's heating up, grease a baking pan and add a parchment paper liner for easy removal later.
Step 2:
In a saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Once it's completely melted, remove it from the heat and allow it to cool slightly before transferring it to a large mixing bowl. Add the sugar and whisk vigorously until well combined. Then, introduce the eggs and vanilla extract to the butter-sugar mixture, stirring thoroughly until the ingredients are fully incorporated.
Step 3:
In a separate bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, unsweetened cocoa powder, baking soda, coffee powder (optional), and salt. This step ensures that your brownies have a smooth, lump-free texture.
Step 4:
Fold in your mix-ins (nuts and dark chocolate chips) for that extra layer of flavor and texture. These are optional but highly recommended!
Step 5:
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until no visible traces of flour remain. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in tough brownies.
Step 6:
Pour the brownie batter into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly.
Step 7:
Bake in the preheated oven for 30-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs (not wet batter). Keep an eye on them to avoid overbaking – a slightly underbaked brownie is better than a dry one!
Step 8:
Once done, remove the brownies from the oven and allow them to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, use the parchment paper to lift them out of the pan and onto a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, cut into 18 delicious squares and serve!
Tips:
For an extra chocolatey twist, use high-quality cocoa powder.
1 ½ cups of sugar is already enough but if you want your brownies sweeter use 2 cups of sugar.
To make the top crispier, sprinkle a thin layer of granulated sugar on top of the batter before baking. This will create a delightful crunch.
If you like your brownies with a fudgy center, aim for the shorter baking time; for a cake-like texture, go closer to the longer baking time.
Don't forget to let the brownies cool before slicing them; this helps them set and hold their shape.
Store leftover brownies in an airtight container for up to a week or freeze them for later enjoyment.
Serve & Enjoy! 💖
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