Soft Fudge Brownies

Name: Soft Fudge Brownies
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 16 brownies
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter; 2 cups granulated sugar; 4 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 cup chocolate chips (optional)

Highlighted under: Modern Cooking

I love making Soft Fudge Brownies because they always hit the spot with their rich, chewy texture. With just a few simple ingredients, I can whip them up in no time. These brownies not only satisfy my chocolate cravings, but they also impress anyone who takes a bite. You won't believe how easy it is to create a dessert that feels decadent and indulgent yet is perfect for any casual gathering or family movie night. Trust me, once you try this simple recipe, it will become a staple in your kitchen!

Created by

Saskia Morton

Last updated on 2026-02-10T15:43:34.647Z

When I first tried making brownies, I was surprised at how few ingredients I needed to create something so delicious. I experimented with different cocoa powders, and I found that using high-quality cocoa made a significant difference in flavor. This recipe is a result of many tests to achieve that perfect fudgy texture that people love. The trick lies in underbaking them just a bit to ensure they stay soft and chocolatey.

One tip that I swear by is letting the brownies cool in the pan for a little while before cutting them. This allows them to set properly and makes slicing easier. If you’re anything like me, you’ll want to dive right in, but trust me, waiting just a few extra minutes will pay off in achieving those clean, perfect brownie squares!

        Why You Will Love These Brownies
        Rich chocolate flavor that satisfies any craving
Chewy texture that melts in your mouth
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for any occasion

      

Mastering the Brownie Batter

When preparing the brownie batter, it's essential to melt the butter slowly over low heat to avoid burning it. This step helps to achieve a shiny crust on the brownies after baking. Once the butter is melted, make sure to blend in the sugar, eggs, and vanilla thoroughly. The combination should look smooth and uniform, which ensures an even distribution of moisture and sweetness throughout the brownies.

While mixing the dry ingredients, be cautious not to overmix them when incorporating them with the wet mixture. Stir just until combined; doing so helps keep the brownies fudgy and chewy rather than cakey. If overworked, the gluten in the flour can tighten up the texture, leading to a less enjoyable result. To avoid this, use a spatula and gently fold the dry ingredients in.

Baking to Perfection

Your baking time can vary slightly based on your oven and the type of pan used. For even cooking, I recommend using a darker metal pan, which can help achieve the classic brownie edges that are slightly crispy. A glass or light-colored pan may require a few extra minutes. Keep a close eye on the brownies during the last five minutes of baking, checking for that perfect toothpick test: a few moist crumbs clinging but no wet batter.

After removing the brownies from the oven, allow them to cool in the pan for at least 10 minutes. This resting period lets the brownies set, making it easier to cut them into perfect squares. If you try to slice them too early, you might end up with a gooey mess. For clean cuts, I suggest using a sharp knife and occasionally wiping it with a paper towel between slices.

Storing and Serving Suggestions

These brownies are best when fresh, but if you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to keep them longer, consider wrapping them individually in plastic wrap and placing them in the freezer. They can last up to three months frozen. To enjoy, simply thaw them at room temperature or warm them briefly in the microwave for that fresh-baked feel.

For serving, these fudgy brownies pair perfectly with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce. You can also top them with whipped cream for an extra indulgent dessert. For a fun twist, try adding nuts or a sprinkle of sea salt on top before baking to elevate the flavor and add texture.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients for the best brownies!

Brownie Ingredients

1 cup unsalted butter
2 cups granulated sugar
4 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup chocolate chips (optional)

Make sure all your ingredients are at room temperature for the best texture.

Instructions

Follow these easy steps to create your delicious brownies!

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13 inch baking pan.

Melt Butter and Combine Ingredients

In a large saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Remove from heat and stir in sugar, eggs, and vanilla until well blended.

Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, mix together the flour, cocoa powder, and salt. Slowly add this to the butter mixture, stirring until just combined.

Add Chocolate Chips

If desired, fold in the chocolate chips for extra fudginess.

Bake the Brownies

Pour the mixture into the prepared baking pan and spread evenly. Bake for 25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.

Cool and Slice

Let the brownies cool in the pan for at least 10 minutes before slicing into squares.

Enjoy your freshly baked brownies with a glass of milk or a scoop of ice cream!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, try adding nuts or a sprinkle of sea salt on top before baking.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have unsalted butter on hand, you can use salted butter, just omit the added salt in the recipe. Also, if you’d like a dairy-free option, substitute the butter with equal parts of coconut oil or a vegan butter alternative. Keep in mind, using coconut oil may impart a subtle coconut flavor, which can complement the chocolate nicely.

To make the brownies gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Make sure the blend contains xanthan gum for proper texture. Additionally, if you want to reduce the sugar content, using a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup can work, but remember they might change the baking time slightly due to their liquid consistency.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your brownies come out too dry, it might be a sign they were overbaked. To prevent this in the future, start checking for doneness a few minutes earlier than the recommended time. Remember, they will continue to cook a bit from residual heat after they're taken out of the oven.

On the flip side, if your brownies are too gooey inside, they likely need more time in the oven. Another reason could be too much liquid was added during mixing, such as over-measuring the eggs. If you suspect that might be the case, it's best to calibrate your measuring routine for accuracy.

Variations to Try

For a delightful twist, consider adding in spices like cinnamon or espresso powder to the brownie batter for a flavor boost. Just one teaspoon of espresso can elevate the chocolate taste, while a pinch of cinnamon adds warmth and depth. You can also try swirls of peanut butter or cream cheese to the top for a rich contrast.

If you're looking for a fun variation, convert these brownie squares into brownie sundaes by layering them with ice cream, hot fudge, and your choice of toppings like nuts or sprinkles. It’s a sure crowd-pleaser for parties and gatherings!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of sugar?

Yes, you can substitute brown sugar for a deeper flavor, but the texture may vary slightly.

→ How do I store leftover brownies?

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

→ Can I freeze brownies?

Absolutely! Wrap them in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.

→ What can I do if my brownies are too dry?

Make sure not to overbake them. If they turn out dry, serve them with ice cream or whipped cream to add moisture.