Quick Description
These Classic Cocoa Brownies are rich, fudgy, and incredibly easy to make using simple pantry ingredients. Soft in the center with slightly crisp edges, they deliver deep chocolate flavor without needing melted chocolate. Perfect for quick desserts, late-night cravings, or sharing with family.
Servings & Timing
Serves: 9 brownies
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Bake Time: 20–25 minutes
Total Time: ~35 minutes
Ingredients List
- 1 stick butter, softened
- 1 cup sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 tablespoons cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
Instructions
-
Preheat Oven
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8×8 baking pan or line with parchment paper. -
Cream Butter & Sugar
In a bowl, mix softened butter and sugar until smooth and creamy. -
Add Eggs & Vanilla
Beat in eggs one at a time, then stir in vanilla extract. -
Add Dry Ingredients
Mix in cocoa powder and salt.
Gently fold in flour until just combined. -
Bake
Pour batter into prepared pan and spread evenly.
Bake for 20–25 minutes, until center is just set. -
Cool & Slice
Let cool for 15 minutes before cutting into squares.
Nutrition (per brownie – approx.)
- Calories: 210
- Protein: 3g
- Carbs: 28g
- Fat: 11g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 20g
Benefits
- One-bowl recipe
- Rich chocolate flavor
- No mixer required
- Quick baking time
- Budget friendly
Additional Notes
- Do not overbake for fudgy texture.
- Let brownies cool for clean slices.
- Use good-quality cocoa powder for best flavor.
Dietary Info
- Vegetarian: Yes
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free flour
- Dairy-Free Option: Use plant butter
Brief Introduction
These brownies are proof that you don’t need fancy ingredients to make amazing chocolate desserts. Simple, soft, and deeply chocolatey.
Step-by-Step Cooking Guide
- Cream butter and sugar
- Add eggs and vanilla
- Mix cocoa and flour
- Bake
- Cool and enjoy
Ingredient Details & Substitutions
- Butter: Can use margarine or plant butter
- Sugar: White or half brown sugar both work
- Cocoa powder: Natural or Dutch process
- Flour: Can replace with almond flour for gluten-free version
Recipe Variations & Serving Suggestions
Variations
- Add chocolate chips
- Add chopped walnuts
- Swirl peanut butter
- Add espresso powder
Serve With
- Vanilla ice cream
- Whipped cream
- Chocolate syrup
- Fresh berries
Storage & Make-Ahead
- Room temperature: 3 days
- Refrigerate: 5 days
- Freeze: up to 2 months
FAQs
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, use a 9×13 pan and bake slightly longer.
Can I reduce sugar?
Yes, reduce by ¼ cup if preferred.
How do I make them more cake-like?
Add 1 extra egg.
Optional Personal Story
These brownies were my first ever homemade dessert. Simple, forgiving, and always a crowd favorite.
