Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Rich and Fudgy Texture: Achieve the perfect balance between gooey and chewy.
Simple Ingredients: No need for fancy ingredients; everything you need is likely already in your pantry.
Quick and Easy: Minimal preparation time means you can enjoy these brownies without a lengthy process.
Versatile: Easily adaptable with various mix-ins or toppings to suit your preferences.
Crowd-Pleaser: Loved by kids and adults alike, making it ideal for gatherings.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

¾ cup baking cocoa
½ teaspoon baking soda
⅔ cup butter, melted and divided
½ cup boiling water
2 cups sugar
2 large eggs, room temperature
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1⅓ cups all-purpose flour
¼ teaspoon salt
½ cup coarsely chopped pecans (optional)
2 cups (12 ounces) semisweet chocolate chunks

Directions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 13×9-inch baking pan.
In a large bowl, combine the baking cocoa and baking soda. Stir in ⅓ cup melted butter. Add boiling water and mix until well blended.
Stir in sugar, eggs, remaining ⅓ cup melted butter, and vanilla extract.
Combine the flour and salt; gradually add to the cocoa mixture.
Fold in the pecans (if using) and chocolate chunks.
Pour the batter into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly.
Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the brownies begin to pull away from the sides of the pan.
Allow to cool in the pan on a wire rack before cutting into squares.

Servings and Timing

Servings: Approximately 24 brownies
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Baking Time: 35-40 minutes
Total Time: 50-55 minutes

Variations

Nut-Free: Omit the pecans for a nut-free version.
Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
Extra Chocolatey: Add white chocolate chips or swirl in some chocolate hazelnut spread before baking.
Fruity Twist: Incorporate dried cherries or raspberries for a fruity flavor.
Spiced: Add a pinch of cinnamon or chili powder for a spicy kick.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to a week.
Freezing: Wrap individual brownies in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to 3 months.
Reheating: To enjoy warm brownies, microwave individual pieces for 10-15 seconds or until warmed through.

FAQs

What makes these brownies “ultimate”?

The combination of rich cocoa, melted butter, and semisweet chocolate chunks creates a deep chocolate flavor and fudgy texture that sets these brownies apart.

Can I use margarine instead of butter?

Yes, margarine can be used as a substitute for butter in this recipe, though it may slightly alter the flavor and texture.

How do I know when the brownies are done?

The brownies are done when they begin to pull away from the sides of the pan, and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.

Can I add other mix-ins?

Absolutely! Feel free to add your favorite nuts, dried fruits, or even swirl in caramel or peanut butter for added flavor.

How should I store leftover brownies?

Store leftover brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.

Can I freeze these brownies?

Yes, wrap individual brownies tightly and freeze them for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

What’s the best way to cut brownies cleanly?

For clean cuts, use a sharp knife and wipe it clean between cuts. Chilling the brownies before cutting can also help achieve cleaner slices.

Can I make these brownies gluten-free?

Yes, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend designed for baking.

Is it okay to use Dutch-processed cocoa?

Yes, Dutch-processed cocoa can be used, but it may result in a slightly different flavor and color compared to natural cocoa powder.

Can I double the recipe?

Certainly! Double the ingredients and use a larger baking pan or two standard pans. Keep an eye on the baking time, as it may need to be adjusted.

Conclusion

These ultimate chocolate brownies are a delightful treat that combines rich flavor with a fudgy texture. Easy to make and versatile, they’re perfect for any occasion, from casual gatherings to special celebrations. Enjoy them as-is or customize with your favorite mix-ins to make them uniquely yours.

The Ultimate Chocolate Brownies

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Author: Julia
Total Time: 50 minutes
Yield: Approximately 24 brownies
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

These ultimate chocolate brownies are rich, fudgy, and easy to make with pantry staples. Perfect for any occasion, this no-fail brownie recipe is loaded with semisweet chocolate chunks for the ultimate gooey treat.

Instructions

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 13×9-inch baking pan.
In a large bowl, stir cocoa and baking soda. Add ⅓ cup melted butter and boiling water. Mix well.
Stir in sugar, eggs, remaining ⅓ cup melted butter, and vanilla.
Mix flour and salt, then gradually add to cocoa mixture.
Fold in pecans (optional) and chocolate chunks.
Spread batter evenly into the prepared pan.
Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until brownies pull away from the pan’s edges.
Cool completely in the pan before slicing.

Notes

Omit pecans for a nut-free version.

For cleaner cuts, chill brownies before slicing.

You can substitute butter with margarine if needed.

Add extra chocolate chips, peanut butter, or fruit for variation.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American