Super Simple Brownies: Your Go-To Recipe for Unforgettably Fudgy Chocolate Indulgence
Every baker dreams of a brownie recipe that’s both incredibly easy to make and delivers mind-blowingly fudgy results. Look no further than these Super Simple Brownies. This recipe is my delicious twist on the highly acclaimed Supernatural Brownies by Nick Malgieri, a recipe revered for its dense, rich texture. While inspired by a classic, my Super Simple Brownies offer a few key differences that make them even more accessible without sacrificing any of the decadent chocolate flavor and signature fudgy texture we all crave.
Why Choose Super Simple Brownies? The Ultimate Easy Brownie Recipe
The beauty of Super Simple Brownies lies in their straightforward preparation and unique ingredient blend. Just like Malgieri’s Supernatural Brownies, this recipe incorporates a combination of granulated sugar and rich dark brown sugar, which is crucial for achieving that characteristic chewy-fudgy texture. However, instead of 100% bittersweet chocolate, these brownies call for a mix of readily available semisweet and unsweetened chocolate. This modification not only makes the recipe more convenient – especially when you might not have specific chocolate types on hand – but also allows for a nuanced chocolate flavor profile that’s both deep and pleasantly sweet, striking a perfect balance for any chocolate lover.
I originally developed this recipe when I needed a quick, delicious treat before a blogger conference. My goal was a smaller batch that was still incredibly satisfying. This led to halving the original recipe and using an 8-inch square pan, which yields a perfect amount for a smaller gathering or when you simply don’t need a massive tray of brownies. This means less commitment but all the indulgence! If you’re set on making the larger, original 9×13 inch version of the Supernatural Brownies, you can certainly find that recipe on The Splendid Table.
The Simplicity Factor: No-Fuss Saucepan Brownies
Back when I first started experimenting with brownie recipes, I was deeply enamored with Ruth Reichl’s Artpark Brownies from her delightful memoir, Tender at the Bone. While the Artpark recipe is fantastic, it requires a significant 10 minutes of vigorous whipping. The “simple” in Super Simple Brownies specifically highlights the absence of such extensive aeration. These truly are easy saucepan brownies, meaning most of the work happens in one pot on the stove, minimizing cleanup and effort. This method ensures a dense, chewy brownie that’s much quicker to prepare when a chocolate craving strikes. If you’re looking for another great brownie experience, do check out the Artpark recipe as well, but for speed and simplicity, these brownies are unmatched.
Understanding the Ingredients: Crafting the Perfect Fudgy Brownie
Each ingredient in these Super Simple Brownies plays a vital role in achieving their irresistible texture and flavor. Let’s break down why these components are essential for your best batch of fudgy brownies:
- Unsalted Butter: The foundation of richness. Using unsalted butter allows you to control the salt content precisely, ensuring the perfect balance of flavors. It also contributes significantly to the brownies’ moist and tender crumb.
- Semisweet and Unsweetened Chocolate: This blend is the secret weapon for a deep, complex chocolate flavor without being overly sweet. The semisweet chocolate provides a pleasant sweetness and smooth texture, while the unsweetened chocolate adds intensity and prevents the brownies from becoming cloyingly sweet. This combination results in a true chocolate lover’s brownie.
- Large Eggs: Eggs are crucial for structure and binding the ingredients together. They also add richness and contribute to the fudgy texture, acting as an emulsifier that creates that desirable chew.
- Salt: A pinch of salt might seem small, but it’s mighty. Salt enhances all the other flavors, particularly the chocolate, making it taste even more pronounced and delicious. Don’t skip it!
- Dark Brown Sugar and Granulated Sugar: This dynamic duo is key to the brownie’s texture. Granulated sugar provides a crisp crust and contributes to the chewiness, while dark brown sugar, with its higher molasses content, adds moisture, a subtle caramel note, and creates that incredibly fudgy, dense interior. The “very well packed” instruction for dark brown sugar is important for accurate measurement.
- Vanilla Extract: Vanilla is a flavor enhancer that complements chocolate beautifully. It adds aromatic depth and a hint of warmth, rounding out the overall taste profile.
- All-Purpose Flour: Unlike cakes, brownies require minimal flour to maintain their fudgy, dense texture. Just enough flour is used to provide structure without making them cakey.
- Chopped Pecans (Optional): For those who love a textural contrast, pecans add a delightful crunch and nutty flavor that pairs wonderfully with chocolate. Feel free to substitute with walnuts or omit them entirely.
The beauty of this precise ingredient combination is how it effortlessly comes together to create a treat that tastes anything but simple. It’s a testament to how thoughtful ingredient choices can elevate a basic recipe to something truly extraordinary.
Crafting Your Own Super Simple Brownies: The Recipe
Recipe
Super Simple Brownies
Recipe by Cookie Madness
Pin Recipe
Ingredients
- 4 oz unsalted butter (114 grams)
- 2 ounces 58% semisweet chocolate (56 grams)
- 2 ounces 100% unsweetened chocolate (56 grams)
- 2 large eggs
- ¼ teaspoon salt plus a pinch
- ½ cup very well packed dark brown sugar (110 grams)
- ½ cup granulated sugar (96 grams)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (5 ml)
- ½ cup all purpose flour (65 grams)
- 3 tablespoons chopped pecans (optional)
Instructions
-
Prepare your pan: Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 C). Line an 8-inch metal baking pan with non-stick foil, ensuring extra foil hangs over the sides to create “handles” for easy removal. This step is crucial for preventing sticking and simplifying the cooling and cutting process.
-
Melt butter and chocolate: Melt butter in a small saucepan set over medium heat. Once the butter is fully melted, add both the semisweet and unsweetened chocolate. Reduce the heat to low or turn it off completely and stir continuously until the chocolate melts smoothly over the residual heat. This gentle melting prevents the chocolate from scorching. Cool the mixture slightly to prevent scrambling the eggs in the next step.
-
Combine wet ingredients and chocolate: In a separate mixing bowl, gently whisk the eggs. The key here is not to incorporate too much air, as we want fudgy, not cakey, brownies. Whisk in the salt, dark brown sugar, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract until just combined. Gradually whisk in the slightly cooled chocolate mixture until fully incorporated.
-
Add dry ingredients: Fold in the all-purpose flour gently using a spatula, mixing just until no streaks of flour remain. Overmixing can develop gluten, leading to tougher brownies. If using, fold in the chopped pecans at this stage.
-
Bake to perfection: Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pan. If desired, sprinkle the top with additional chopped nuts or a sprinkle of flaky sea salt for a gourmet touch. Bake for 33-35 minutes, or until the top is shiny, set, and just beginning to crack around the edges. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out with moist crumbs, not wet batter. Remember, it’s better to slightly underbake than overbake for truly fudgy brownies.
-
Cool and cut: Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. Cooling is essential for achieving the best fudgy texture and clean cuts. Once thoroughly cooled, use the foil handles to lift the brownies out of the pan. Cut into your desired brownie size and enjoy!
Tips for Baking the Best Super Simple Brownies
- Don’t Overbake: This is the golden rule for fudgy brownies. Overbaking leads to dry, cakey brownies. Look for a shiny, set top that has just begun to crack. A toothpick inserted should come out with moist crumbs, not liquid batter.
- Quality Chocolate Matters: Since chocolate is the star ingredient, using good quality semisweet and unsweetened chocolate will significantly impact the flavor. You don’t need the most expensive, but avoid anything labeled “chocolate flavored.”
- Cool Completely: Patience is a virtue when it comes to brownies. Allowing them to cool fully in the pan allows the flavors to meld and the texture to set, resulting in perfectly fudgy, sliceable brownies. Trying to cut them warm will result in a messy, crumbly experience.
- Room Temperature Eggs: Room temperature eggs incorporate more evenly into the batter and help create a smoother emulsion, contributing to a better texture.
- Customize Your Nuts: While pecans are recommended, feel free to use walnuts, almonds, or even a mix of your favorite nuts. Toasting them lightly before adding can enhance their flavor.
- A Pinch of Flaky Sea Salt: For an elevated touch, sprinkle a tiny bit of flaky sea salt over the top of the brownies just before baking. It beautifully enhances the chocolate flavor and adds a gourmet touch.
Serving Suggestions for Your Decadent Brownies
These Super Simple Brownies are delicious on their own, but they also make a fantastic base for various desserts. Here are a few ideas to elevate your brownie experience:
- Classic à la Mode: Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream and a drizzle of chocolate sauce. The contrast of warm brownie and cold ice cream is heavenly.
- Whipped Cream Dream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream can lighten the richness and add a delightful creamy texture.
- Fruit Pairing: Serve alongside fresh raspberries or sliced strawberries. The tartness of the fruit provides a lovely counterpoint to the rich chocolate.
- Espresso Kick: Enjoy with a strong cup of coffee or espresso. The bitterness of the coffee beautifully complements the sweetness of the brownie.
- Brownie Sundae: Top with your favorite sundae toppings – nuts, hot fudge, caramel, sprinkles, and a cherry for an ultimate dessert experience.
Storage Tips to Keep Brownies Fresh
To ensure your Super Simple Brownies stay fresh and fudgy for as long as possible, follow these storage guidelines:
- Room Temperature: Store cooled brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days. This is generally the best way to maintain their fudgy texture.
- Refrigeration: While not strictly necessary, if you prefer a firmer, denser brownie, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. Bring them back to room temperature or warm slightly before serving for optimal texture.
- Freezing: Brownies freeze exceptionally well! Cut them into individual squares, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. Thaw at room temperature or warm gently in the microwave.
Conclusion: Your New Favorite Easy Brownie Recipe
Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, these Super Simple Brownies are guaranteed to become a cherished recipe in your collection. They offer the deep chocolate flavor and exquisite fudgy texture of more complex recipes, but with an ease of preparation that makes them perfect for any occasion. From a quick weeknight treat to a dessert for a special gathering, these brownies deliver pure chocolate bliss every time.
So, gather your ingredients, fire up your oven, and prepare to indulge in the best easy fudgy brownies you’ve ever tasted. Don’t forget to share your experience and let us know how much you loved these Super Simple Brownies!