Classic Brownies Recipe
Overview
A timeless favorite, these Classic Brownies are hailed as the quintessential recipe by America’s Test Kitchen, featured in Cook’s Illustrated. This recipe guarantees a rich, fudgy texture that is sure to delight chocolate lovers and impress your family and friends. Perfect for gatherings and quick indulgences, these brownies come together in about an hour. Prepare to experience the ultimate in gooey, chocolatey goodness with this delightful dessert.
Ingredients
- 1 1/4 cups cake flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 3/4 teaspoon baking powder
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 12 ounces semisweet chocolate, chopped
- 2 1/4 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup pecans, chopped (optional)
- 1 cup walnuts, chopped (optional)
Instructions
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Preheat the Oven:
- Begin by preheating your oven to 325°F (163°C). This step ensures that your brownies will bake evenly.
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Prepare the Baking Pan:
- Take an 18-inch length of aluminum foil and fold it lengthwise to a width of 8 inches. Place this folded foil into a 13×9-inch baking dish, ensuring it lines the corners and sides of the dish. Let the foil hang over the sides for easy removal later.
- Next, cut another 14-inch length of foil and fit it perpendicular to the first piece, creating a crosshatch pattern. This method helps to support the brownies as they bake and makes for effortless removal.
- Spray the foil with cooking spray to prevent the brownies from sticking.
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Mix the Dry Ingredients:
- In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the cake flour, salt, and baking powder. Set this mixture aside to be incorporated later.
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Melt the Chocolate and Butter:
- Place the chopped semisweet chocolate and unsalted butter into a double boiler or a heatproof bowl set over simmering water. Stir constantly until the chocolate and butter are melted and smooth. Be sure to remove the bowl from the heat once the mixture is fully combined.
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Incorporate the Sugar:
- Gradually whisk the granulated sugar into the melted chocolate and butter mixture. This step ensures that the sugar fully dissolves and integrates into the batter.
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Add the Eggs and Vanilla:
- Whisk in the eggs one at a time, making sure to fully incorporate each egg before adding the next. This helps to maintain the right texture and consistency.
- Stir in the vanilla extract, blending it well into the mixture.
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Combine with Dry Ingredients:
- Gently fold in one-third of the flour mixture using a rubber spatula. Continue to add the flour mixture in thirds, folding carefully each time until the batter is smooth and well combined.
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Pour and Spread the Batter:
- Pour the brownie batter into the prepared baking pan. Spread the batter evenly into the corners and smooth the surface to ensure even baking.
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Add Nuts (Optional):
- If desired, sprinkle the chopped pecans and walnuts evenly over the top of the batter. This adds a delightful crunch and extra flavor to your brownies.
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Bake:
- Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes. The brownies are done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs. Avoid overbaking to keep the brownies fudgy.
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Cool and Remove:
- Allow the brownies to cool in the pan on a wire rack for about 2 hours. This cooling period is essential for the brownies to set properly and makes them easier to cut.
- Once cooled, lift the brownies out of the pan using the overhanging foil. Transfer them to a cutting board.
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Cut and Serve:
- Cut the brownies into 2-inch squares. The squares can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, maintaining their delicious flavor and texture.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 197.6
- Fat: 10.4g
- Saturated Fat: 6.2g
- Cholesterol: 50.5mg
- Sodium: 74.1mg
- Carbohydrates: 26.6g
- Fiber: 1.3g
- Sugar: 18.9g
- Protein: 2.6g
Enjoy your Classic Brownies, a simple yet scrumptious treat that combines rich chocolate with a fudgy texture, perfect for any occasion or just a sweet craving! 🍫🍰
