Best-Ever 5 Ingredient Brownies Recipe

Introduction

These best-ever 5 ingredient brownies are rich, fudgy, and incredibly easy to make. They use simple pantry staples yet deliver a deeply chocolatey treat perfect for any occasion. With just a few steps, you can enjoy homemade brownies that rival bakery quality.

Ingredients

• 2 cups granulated sugar (420 grams)
• 4 large eggs, at room temperature
• 1 cup salted butter, melted (226 grams)
• 2/3 cup cocoa powder (62 grams)
• 3/4 cup all-purpose flour (98 grams)
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract (optional, but recommended)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×9 inch metal baking dish with parchment paper.
2. Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, add the sugar and eggs. Using an electric mixer on high speed, beat for 3-4 minutes until the sugar dissolves and the mixture feels smooth to the touch.
3. Step 3: Whisk in the melted butter and vanilla extract if using.
4. Step 4: Add the flour, cocoa powder, and salt. Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined and a thick batter forms.
5. Step 5: Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly. Optionally, stir in 1 cup of chocolate chips before pouring for extra richness.
6. Step 6: Bake for 33-38 minutes. The brownies are done when the top looks set, and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with thick, moist crumbs but no wet batter.
7. Step 7: Allow the brownies to cool for at least 1 hour before slicing to let them set into a fudgy consistency.

Tips & Variations

• Use a metal baking dish for best heat distribution; glass pans can alter baking time.
• If you prefer a deeper chocolate flavor, add an extra tablespoon of cocoa powder.
• Try stirring in chopped nuts, dried fruit, or espresso powder for added texture and complexity.
• For a gluten-free option, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend one-to-one.

Storage

Store cooled brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for 3 to 4 days. To keep them moist, place a piece of parchment paper between layers. Reheat gently in the microwave or enjoy at room temperature. For longer storage, freeze brownies wrapped tightly for up to 3 months.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use unsalted butter instead of salted?

Yes, you can use unsalted butter. Just add a pinch more salt if desired to balance the flavors.

Why do brownies need to cool before slicing?

Brownies set as they cool, which helps them hold their shape when cut. Slicing too soon can cause them to be underdone and crumbly.

Best-Ever 5 Ingredient Brownies Recipe

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★★★★★

4.8 from 147 reviews

• Author: Sarah
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 16 brownies 1x

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Description

These Best-Ever 5 Ingredient Brownies deliver a perfectly fudgy and rich chocolate experience with minimal ingredients and effort. With simple pantry staples and a quick mixing method, these brownies are easy to make yet deeply satisfying. They have a dense, moist texture with a crackly top and a melt-in-your-mouth finish, perfect for any chocolate lover.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Dry Ingredients

• 2 cups granulated sugar (420 grams)
• 2/3 cup cocoa powder (62 grams)
• 3/4 cup all-purpose flour (98 grams)
• 1/4 tsp salt

Wet Ingredients

• 4 large eggs, at room temperature
• 1 cup salted butter, melted (226 grams)
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract (optional but recommended)

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Instructions

1. Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 350° F. Line a metal 9×9 inch baking dish with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy removal of the brownies.
2. Mix Sugar and Eggs: In a large mixing bowl, add the granulated sugar and eggs. Beat with an electric mixer on high speed for 3-4 minutes, until the sugar dissolves completely and the mixture feels smooth between your fingers without graininess.
3. Add Wet Ingredients: Whisk in the melted salted butter and vanilla extract (if using), blending thoroughly to combine.
4. Fold in Dry Ingredients: Sift together the flour, cocoa powder, and salt, then fold them gently into the wet mixture until you have a thick batter. Optionally, stir in 1 cup of chocolate chips here for extra chocolatey goodness.
5. Bake the Brownies: Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and bake for 33 to 38 minutes. The top should look set with a thin crust. Check doneness by inserting a toothpick in the center – it should come out with thick, moist crumbs but no raw batter. Avoid overbaking, as they will continue to set as they cool.
6. Cool and Serve: Let the brownies cool in the pan for at least 1 hour before slicing to achieve the perfect fudgy texture. Store cooled brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for 3-4 days to maintain freshness.

Notes

• The addition of salt and vanilla extract technically increases the ingredient count beyond five, but they significantly enhance flavor without complicating the recipe.
• Using a metal baking dish is recommended as it helps brownies bake evenly and develop a perfect crust.
• Test doneness by eye and texture rather than time alone, as oven temperatures vary widely.
• If you want an extra chocolate boost, stir in 1 cup chocolate chips before baking.
• Allow the brownies to cool fully for optimal fudgy texture – cutting them too early will make them appear underbaked.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Keywords: brownies, chocolate brownies, fudgy brownies, easy dessert, 5 ingredient brownies, simple brownie recipe