Easy Homemade Brownies Recipe

Few desserts say “comfort” quite like a warm, fudgy tray of Easy Homemade Brownies. Imagine deep chocolate flavor, a shiny crackled top, and gooey centers studded with melty chocolate chips — all made with pantry staples you’re likely to have right now. These brownies are perfect for a quick family treat, a decadent potluck offering, or for sneaking solo with a glass of cold milk. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or new to the kitchen, the simplicity and sheer deliciousness of this Easy Homemade Brownies recipe will have you baking them again and again.

Ingredients You’ll Need

With just a handful of basic ingredients, you can create brownies that taste even better than any boxed mix. Each component brings something special to the party — from rich flavor to perfect texture and that irresistible glossy finish.

• Butter (½ cup, melted and cooled): Infuses the brownies with richness and helps achieve that signature moist crumb.
• Granulated Sugar (1 cup): Adds sweetness and helps develop the classic crisp top.
• Vanilla Extract (1 tsp.): Rounds out the chocolate flavor with a fragrant, aromatic finish.
• Eggs (2): Bind the ingredients together and add fudgy structure.
• Baking Soda (¼ tsp.): Gives just a hint of lift so your brownies aren’t too dense.
• Salt (¼ tsp.): Enhances overall flavor and balances out the sweetness.
• All-Purpose Flour (½ cup): Provides a tender, chewy base while letting the chocolate shine.
• Cocoa Powder (½ cup): Delivers deep, decadent chocolate intensity.
• Chocolate Chips (1 ½ cups): Speckles each bite with gooey, melted chocolate pockets for ultimate indulgence.
  *Use semi-sweet or dark, your favorite works best!

How to Make Easy Homemade Brownies

Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F to ensure even baking. Line a 9×9-inch metal baking pan with parchment paper or aluminum foil, leaving an overhang for easy removal. This not only prevents sticking but also makes cleanup a breeze. While the oven heats, melt your butter so it has time to cool to room temperature — this helps achieve that irresistible shiny top.

Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled melted butter, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract. Whisk vigorously to dissolve the sugar and create a smooth, glossy mixture. Next, add the eggs one at a time, whisking until the batter is thick, pale, and fully emulsified. This step traps air and helps set up those crave-worthy crackly tops Easy Homemade Brownies are known for.

Step 3: Add the Dry Ingredients

Sprinkle the baking soda and salt over the wet mixture, then add the flour and cocoa powder. Stir gently until just combined; over-mixing can make the brownies tough, so stop as soon as you see a uniform batter. Fold in the chocolate chips last — this thick batter will feel dense, but that’s the secret to those extra-fudgy bites.

Step 4: Bake

Scoop the batter into the prepared pan and use a spatula to level it out, making sure it reaches all corners. Slide into the preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes. For classic Easy Homemade Brownies, look for set edges and shiny, slightly cracked tops. The center should no longer jiggle, but a toothpick inserted should come out with moist crumbs (not wet batter) for perfect fudginess.

Step 5: Cool and Slice

Patience pays off! Let your brownies cool in the pan for at least 30 minutes before lifting them out using the parchment/foil overhang. This helps them firm up for the cleanest, most satisfying slices. Use a sharp knife, wiping between cuts for picture-perfect squares every time.

How to Serve Easy Homemade Brownies

Garnishes

Nothing says special quite like a dusting of powdered sugar, a drizzle of warm chocolate or caramel, or even a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream. Fresh berries or a sprinkle of flaky sea salt can take these Easy Homemade Brownies from everyday indulgence to show-stopping dessert in seconds.

Side Dishes

Pair your brownies with tall glasses of cold milk, mugs of strong coffee, or even a dollop of whipped cream. For a fun twist, serve alongside fresh fruit like strawberries or orange slices — the brightness balances out the rich chocolate flavors beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

Stack brownie squares into a rustic tower and tie with twine for picnic treats, or use round cookie cutters to create brownie “coins” for a fancy platter. Layer cubes with whipped cream and berries in parfait glasses for an Easy Homemade Brownies trifle that’s as pretty as it is tasty.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftover brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. They’ll retain their rich texture and flavor, making them perfect for quick grab-and-go treats throughout the week.

Freezing

For longer storage, wrap cooled brownies or individual squares tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep beautifully for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature or microwave thawed pieces for a few seconds for soft, gooey results anytime.

Reheating

To bring back that just-baked warmth, microwave brownies in 10-second increments until heated through. For a slightly crispier edge, warm in a 300°F oven for about 5 minutes. Either way, you’ll revive that fresh-out-of-the-oven magic with every bite.

FAQs

Can I use a glass pan instead of a metal one?

Yes, but keep in mind that glass bakes more slowly and brownies may be slightly drier around the edges. Reduce the oven temperature by 25°F and check for doneness a few minutes earlier or later as needed for Easy Homemade Brownies perfection.

Can I add nuts or other mix-ins?

Absolutely! Fold in up to 1 cup of chopped walnuts, pecans, or even dried fruit along with the chocolate chips. The base recipe is forgiving and deliciously adaptable.

How can I make my brownies even fudgier?

For extra dense and fudgy Easy Homemade Brownies, bake them just until the center is barely set, and don’t overmix the batter. You can also use an extra egg yolk for maximum richness.

Can I double this recipe for a larger crowd?

Yes! Double the ingredients and use a 9×13-inch pan. The baking time may increase slightly, so check with a toothpick for those telltale moist crumbs in the center.

What should I do if my brownies sink in the middle?

This can happen if the eggs or butter are too hot, or if they’re overmixed. Let your butter cool, mix gently, and try not to overbake — a little gooeyness is a good thing with Easy Homemade Brownies!

Final Thoughts

Once you’ve tasted a batch of these Easy Homemade Brownies, you’ll understand why they’re such a beloved staple in so many kitchens. They’re unfussy, deeply chocolatey, and just a joy to make and share. If you’re looking for the perfect dessert to win hearts or just treat yourself, give these brownies a try — you might never reach for the boxed mix again!

Print