Have you been craving a rich, chocolatey treat that comes together fast with pantry staples? This easy brownie recipe delivers just that—perfect for busy weeknights, beginner bakers, or when you need a last-minute dessert. Using just a handful of ingredients and a single bowl, you’ll get chewy, fudgy brownies with a crisp top and decadent flavor every time. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a total newbie, this guide walks you through everything you need to know to whip up homemade brownies that rival any box mix—only better.
Key Benefits of This Easy Brownie Recipe
There’s something timeless about a tray of freshly baked brownies—especially when the recipe is simple enough for anyone to master. This easy brownie recipe isn’t just about cutting corners; it’s about maximizing flavor, texture, and convenience with minimal effort. Here’s why it deserves a place in your go-to dessert rotation:
Foolproof for Beginners
With step-by-step instructions and common pantry staples, this recipe removes the guesswork. Even first-time bakers can turn out rich, fudgy brownies that taste like they came from a bakery.
One-Bowl Simplicity
Forget the mountain of dishes—this entire batter comes together in a single bowl. That means fewer cleanup hassles and more time enjoying your sweet creation.
No Fancy Equipment Required
All you need is a bowl, a whisk, and a baking pan. No stand mixer, food processor, or other tools—just simple baking with fantastic results.
Rich, Chocolatey Flavor
By using real cocoa powder and the right ratio of sugar to fat, these brownies strike the ideal balance between chewy and gooey, with a glossy, crackly top.
Easy to Customize
This base recipe is a blank canvas. You can mix in nuts, swirl in peanut butter, or add chocolate chips and espresso powder to suit your taste.
Fast and Reliable
With a bake time under 30 minutes, this recipe is perfect when you want dessert without a long wait or complicated steps. It works every time, guaranteed.
When you want a dessert that’s fast, fuss-free, and deeply satisfying, this brownie recipe delivers. Let’s take a look at what ingredients you’ll need next.
Ingredients for Easy Brownie Recipe
You don’t need a long shopping list to make irresistible brownies at home. In fact, the beauty of this easy brownie recipe is how effortlessly it comes together with a few pantry staples. Here’s everything you’ll need for a rich, chewy batch that hits the sweet spot every time.
Basic Ingredients
| Ingredient | Amount | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Unsalted Butter | ½ cup (1 stick) | Adds richness and helps create a moist texture |
| Granulated Sugar | 1 cup | Sweetens and helps build that crackly brownie top |
| Large Eggs | 2 | Binds ingredients and adds chewiness |
| Vanilla Extract | 1 tsp | Enhances chocolate flavor with warm notes |
| Unsweetened Cocoa Powder | ⅓ cup | Delivers rich chocolate taste |
| All-Purpose Flour | ½ cup | Provides structure without making them cakey |
| Salt | ¼ tsp | Balances the sweetness and deepens chocolate taste |
Optional Add-Ins
- Chocolate Chips – For melty bursts of extra chocolate.
- Chopped Nuts – Add texture and flavor (walnuts or pecans work well).
- Espresso Powder – Intensifies the cocoa flavor for mocha lovers.
Pro Ingredient Tips
- Use high-quality cocoa powder: Dutch-process cocoa gives a deeper flavor, but regular works fine.
- Melt butter completely: It helps dissolve the sugar better, improving texture.
- Room-temperature eggs: These mix more easily into the batter, creating a smoother texture.
With these ingredients ready, you’re only a few steps away from bakery-quality brownies—without the bakery price. Next, let’s walk through the step-by-step instructions.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Easy Brownie Recipe
Making brownies at home should be straightforward and satisfying. This simple guide takes you through each step so you can enjoy rich, chocolatey treats with minimal effort.
1. Get Your Oven Ready
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it heats, line an 8×8-inch square pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it. This helps with easy removal once your brownies are done.
2. Soften the Butter
Place ½ cup of unsalted butter in a microwave-safe bowl. Melt it in short intervals and set it aside to cool slightly before adding other ingredients.
3. Blend the Wet Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, combine the cooled butter with 1 cup of granulated sugar and stir until smooth. Add 2 large eggs and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, then mix until the batter turns thick and glossy.
4. Add Dry Ingredients
Using a sifter or fine mesh strainer, add ⅓ cup of unsweetened cocoa powder, ½ cup of all-purpose flour, and ¼ teaspoon of salt into the bowl. Gently fold everything together, and once no dry spots remain, stop mixing to keep the texture soft and moist.
5. Customize with Extras (Optional)
Now’s the time to mix in extras like chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or a dash of espresso powder. These additions offer more depth without adding complexity.
6. Transfer and Bake
Evenly spread the batter in your prepared pan. Place it on the center oven rack and bake for 20 to 25 minutes. To check doneness, insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out with moist crumbs (not wet batter), they’re ready.
7. Let Them Cool
After baking, allow the brownies to rest for at least 15 minutes before slicing. Use a sharp knife for clean cuts, wiping it between each slice for best results.
Pro Tips & Variations for Easy Brownie Recipe
One of the greatest things about this easy brownie recipe is its flexibility. Whether you prefer chewy centers or crisp edges, enjoy nuts or go nut-free, or want to experiment with flavors, these tips and variations will help you tailor your brownies to perfection.
Use High-Quality Cocoa Powder
Cocoa powder is the main source of deep chocolate flavor in this recipe. Choose a high-quality unsweetened variety for a richer taste. Dutch-processed cocoa also delivers a darker color and a smoother, more refined flavor.
Don’t Overmix
Once you’ve added the dry ingredients, mix only until everything is just combined. Overmixing can develop the gluten in flour, resulting in a firmer texture. To keep your brownies soft and tender, stop mixing as soon as you see no dry streaks.
Customize with Add-Ins
Boost flavor and texture by folding in extras like chopped dark chocolate, white chocolate chips, or butterscotch morsels. For a satisfying crunch, add toasted walnuts or pecans. Gently fold them into the batter once everything else is combined.
Try Flavor Enhancers
A few subtle additions can elevate this easy brownie recipe. For a seasonal twist, you might enjoy the warm spices and rich flavor in our pumpkin chocolate brownies guide.
Make It Gluten-Free or Dairy-Free
To keep the recipe gluten-free, replace the regular flour with a one-to-one gluten-free baking blend. For a dairy-free version, use melted coconut oil or a dairy-free margarine instead of butter. Be sure to check labels on any add-ins for hidden allergens.
Adjust for Texture Preferences
Prefer cakier brownies? Include one more egg and a bit more flour to create a lighter, cake-like crumb. For an ultra-fudgy version, reduce the flour slightly and take care not to overbake.
Use Different Pan Sizes
An 8×8-inch pan will give you thicker, traditional brownies, while a 9×9-inch pan creates a thinner, slightly firmer version. Whichever size you choose, adjust baking time by a few minutes to suit your oven and pan.
By applying these variations and tips, you can personalize this easy brownie recipe to match your flavor preferences and dietary needs—without losing the simplicity that makes it so appealing. Whether you’re baking for a family night, a special occasion, or just to satisfy a craving, these brownies can be made your way.
Serving Suggestions for Easy Brownie Recipe
Homemade brownies are versatile and can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion. Whether you’re sharing them at a party or enjoying a quiet night in, these ideas will help you serve brownies with style and flavor.
Create a Dessert Board
Slice the brownies into small squares and pair them with fruit, cookies, and nuts on a tray for an eye-catching dessert spread. It’s a fun and interactive way to serve treats for guests or family gatherings—especially when paired with ideas from our holiday recipes and tips collection.
Add a Simple Finishing Touch
Sprinkle a light coating of powdered sugar or cocoa on top right before serving to add a polished, decorative touch. This quick addition enhances the look without extra effort.
Make Brownie Sundaes
Turn your brownies into a sundae by adding scoops of ice cream, a swirl of whipped cream, chopped nuts, and a cherry on top. It’s a great way to turn a simple dessert into something indulgent.
Pair With a Beverage
Serve your brownies alongside a warm espresso, freshly brewed coffee, or chilled milk for a cozy treat any time. This pairing is especially comforting during colder months or as a late-night snack.
Conclusion
This easy brownie recipe proves that you don’t need a long list of ingredients or complicated steps to create rich, fudgy, crowd-pleasing treats. With just a few pantry staples and a bit of mixing, you can whip up a dessert that’s perfect for any occasion—from weeknight cravings to last-minute parties.
By following the simple steps and experimenting with a few variations, you can make brownies that suit your taste, texture preference, and dietary needs. Whether you keep it classic or add your own twist, this recipe offers the flexibility to make each batch uniquely yours.
Whether you keep it classic or add your own twist, this recipe offers the flexibility to make each batch uniquely yours. For a savory main dish to serve before dessert, try our Costco stuffed peppers recipe—a reader favorite.
Try it once, and you’ll see why this easy brownie recipe is a go-to favorite for so many home bakers. And if you’re planning a full meal, pair it with our baked ziti with chicken for an effortless dinner-and-dessert combo. And when you do, don’t forget to share your version or tips in the comments—we’d love to see how you made it your own!
FAQs About Easy Brownie Recipe
What makes a brownie recipe easy?
An easy brownie recipe uses everyday ingredients like butter, sugar, eggs, flour, and cocoa powder. It keeps the process simple—no fancy techniques or special tools—and is often made in a single bowl for quicker prep and cleanup.
How can I make brownies with a chewy texture?
To achieve a chewier bite, start with melted butter, use slightly less flour, and be careful not to overbake. For even better results, chill the brownies after baking to enhance firmness and chewiness.
Can I make this brownie recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely. Once baked and cooled completely, store the brownies in an airtight container. They’ll stay fresh at room temperature for 2–3 days, or in the refrigerator for up to a week.
How do I know when brownies are done baking?
Insert a toothpick into the center of the pan—if it comes out with moist crumbs but no raw batter, they’re ready. Keep a close eye during the final minutes, as overbaking can dry them out and dull their fudgy texture.
Easy Brownie Recipe: Rich, Fudgy Flavor in Just One Bowl
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 9 brownies 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This easy brownie recipe uses pantry staples and one bowl to create rich, chewy, chocolatey brownies in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients
½ cup unsalted butter
1 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 tsp vanilla extract
⅓ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
½ cup all-purpose flour
¼ tsp salt
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare an 8×8-inch pan.
2. Melt the butter and let it cool slightly.
3. Mix butter with sugar until smooth.
4. Add eggs and vanilla; stir until glossy.
5. Sift in cocoa, flour, and salt. Stir gently.
6. Add optional mix-ins if desired.
7. Spread batter evenly in pan.
8. Bake 20–25 minutes until toothpick has moist crumbs.
9. Let cool 15 minutes before slicing.
Notes
Add chocolate chips, nuts, or espresso powder for variety.
Use gluten-free flour for a GF version.
Do not overmix the batter.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 brownie
- Calories: 230
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 95mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 27g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
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