Best Ever Chewy Brownies
Best Ever Brownie Recipe with shiny, crackly tops that deliver a rich, fudgy center and a perfect bite every time.
Best Ever Brownies with Shiny Tops
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter
- 8 oz (225g) semisweet or dark chocolate, chopped
- 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup (100g) brown sugar
- 3 large eggs, room temperature
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup (65g) all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup (30g) unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Line an 8×8 inch (20×20 cm) baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal. Grease lightly.
2. Melt the Butter and Chocolate:
- In a heatproof bowl, melt the butter and chopped chocolate together over a double boiler or in the microwave in 20-30 second intervals, stirring in between, until smooth and fully combined.
- Set aside to cool slightly.
3. Whisk the Eggs and Sugars:
- In a large bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar, brown sugar, and eggs. Whisk vigorously for 2-3 minutes until the mixture becomes pale and frothy (this step is key to getting shiny tops).
- Stir in the vanilla extract.
4. Combine the Wet and Dry Ingredients:
- Gradually pour the melted chocolate into the egg-sugar mixture, stirring until fully incorporated.
- Sift in the flour, cocoa powder, and salt. Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet until just combined. Do not overmix.
5. Bake:
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs (for fudgier brownies). If you prefer a slightly more cakey texture, bake for a few more minutes.
6. Cool and Serve:
- Allow the brownies to cool in the pan for at least 15-20 minutes before lifting them out with the parchment paper.
- Slice and enjoy those shiny, crackly tops with a fudgy inside!
Tips for Perfect Shiny-Topped Brownies:
- Whisking the eggs and sugar: The glossy top comes from properly whisking the eggs and sugar together until light and frothy.
- Butter and Chocolate Combination: The right ratio of fat from butter and melted chocolate helps create a rich, fudgy texture that contrasts beautifully with the shiny top.
- Don’t Overmix: Gently fold in the dry ingredients to avoid overworking the batter, which can result in a denser texture and reduce that signature crackly top.
These brownies will have the perfect combination of chewy edges, a soft center, and that coveted shiny, crackly crust!