These fudgy brownies are the ultimate treat, combining a rich, velvety texture with deep chocolate flavor in every bite. Ready in just 35 minutes, they’re perfect for satisfying sudden cravings or impressing guests with minimal effort. The crackly top gives way to a moist, gooey center that melts in your mouth, making them impossible to resist.
Packed with decadent cocoa and a hint of sweetness, these brownies strike the perfect balance between indulgent and comforting. Whether you’re baking for a cozy night in or a special occasion, their irresistible aroma and melt-in-your-mouth goodness will have everyone reaching for seconds. Quick, easy, and utterly delicious—what’s not to love?
Ingredients for Fudgy Brownies
- 8 Tablespoons cocoa powder (unsweetened, for rich chocolate flavor)
- 1 cup unsalted butter (or use margarine; our grandma liked to use ½ cup butter and ½ cup margarine)
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 eggs (large, at room temperature for best results)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2½ cups flour (all-purpose)
- 1 cup nuts (optional; walnuts or pecans work well)
- Pinch of salt (to enhance flavor)
For the Frosting:
- 1 pound powdered sugar (sifted for smooth frosting)
- ¼ cup butter (softened)
- 3 Tablespoons cocoa powder
- ¼ cup hot water (to help dissolve ingredients)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking pan with butter or non-stick spray.
- Melt the butter in a mixing bowl (microwave or stovetop works). Stir in the cocoa powder until smooth.
- Add sugar and eggs to the bowl. Mix well until fully combined and slightly glossy.
- Incorporate vanilla, flour, nuts (if using), and salt. Beat the mixture until smooth and no flour streaks remain.
- Spoon the batter into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
- Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs (not wet batter).
- While the brownies bake, prepare the frosting: In a bowl, combine powdered sugar, softened butter, cocoa powder, hot water, and vanilla. Mix until smooth and spreadable.
- Frost the brownies: Spread the frosting over the hot brownies for a gooey texture, or let them cool first for a thicker frosting layer.
- Serve and enjoy! Cut into squares and store leftovers in an airtight container.
Frosting Tips and Topping Ideas
For a richer frosting, try using dark cocoa powder instead of regular cocoa. If you prefer a creamier texture, swap the hot water with heavy cream. For a fun twist, sprinkle crushed nuts, mini chocolate chips, or even sea salt flakes on top of the frosting before it sets. These additions add both flavor and a delightful crunch!
Perfect Serving Suggestions
Serve these fudgy brownies warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a classic dessert combo. For a fancier presentation, drizzle with caramel sauce or chocolate ganache. They also pair wonderfully with a glass of cold milk or a cup of espresso for a cozy treat.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Store brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the fridge for up to a week. To keep them extra moist, place a slice of bread in the container. For reheating, microwave a slice for 10-15 seconds to restore that gooey texture. You can also freeze unfrosted brownies for up to 3 months—just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and foil.
Recipe Variations to Try
Swap out the nuts for chocolate chunks or dried fruit for a different texture. For a gluten-free version, use almond flour or a gluten-free flour blend. If you’re feeling adventurous, add a pinch of cinnamon or espresso powder to the batter for a deeper flavor profile.
Time-Saving Tips for Busy Bakers
To speed up prep, melt the butter in the microwave instead of on the stove. Use a stand mixer or hand mixer to combine ingredients quickly. If you’re short on time, skip the frosting and dust the brownies with powdered sugar instead—they’ll still be delicious!
Fudgy Brownies Recipe
Ingredients
Brownies
- 8 Tablespoons cocoa powder
- 1 cup unsalted butter (or margarine – our grandma liked to do 1/2 cup of each)
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2½ cups flour
- 1 cup nuts optional
- pinch salt
Frosting
- 1 pound powdered sugar
- ¼ cup butter softened
- 3 Tablespoons cocoa powder
- ¼ cup hot water
- 1 teaspoon vanilla
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 325 degrees.
- Grease a 9 x 13 inch baking pan.
- In a mixing bowl, melt butter or margarine, and then stir in cocoa.
- Add in sugar and eggs to the mixing bowl and stir together.
- Add in vanilla, flour, nuts and salt and beat together well.
- Spoon batter into the prepared pan. Bake 25 to 30 minutes, or until cooked through.
- Mix the frosting ingredients together and spread over the hot brownies and serve.
- You can also let the brownies cool and then frost. This way the frosting is thicker.