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Classic Fudge Brownie Base

A rich, foolproof fudge brownie base that's perfect for decorating. This one-bowl recipe yields dense, chewy brownies that hold up to frosting and toppers.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 24 servings
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Calories: 220

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup Unsalted butter melted and slightly cooled
  • 2 cups Granulated sugar
  • 4 large Eggs room temperature
  • 2 tsp Vanilla extract pure, not imitation
  • 1 cup All-purpose flour spooned and leveled
  • 1 cup Unsweetened cocoa powder natural or Dutch-processed
  • 0.5 tsp Salt
  • 1.5 cups Semi-sweet chocolate chips or chopped chocolate

Equipment

  • 9x13 inch metal baking pan
  • Parchment paper
  • Large mixing bowl
  • Whisk and rubber spatula
  • Wire cooling rack
  • Sharp chef's knife

Method
 

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9x13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on two sides for easy removal. In a large bowl, whisk together the melted butter and sugar until well combined, about 1 minute. Whisk in the eggs, one at a time, then the vanilla. The mixture should be smooth and glossy.
  2. Sift the flour, cocoa powder, and salt directly into the wet ingredients. Use a rubber spatula to fold gently until just a few streaks of flour remain. Trust me, overmixing leads to tough brownies. Fold in the chocolate chips until evenly distributed.
  3. Pour the thick batter into the prepared pan and spread into an even layer with your spatula. Bake for 28-32 minutes. The brownies are done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs attached, not wet batter. The top will be shiny and cracked.
  4. Let the brownies cool completely in the pan set on a wire rack. This is crucial for clean cutting. For the neatest squares, chill the pan in the refrigerator for 1-2 hours before using the parchment overhang to lift the entire slab out onto a cutting board.
  5. Use a large, sharp chef's knife to cut into squares. Wipe the knife clean with a damp cloth between cuts for pristine edges. Now, your perfect canvas is ready for decorating!

Notes

Chef's Tips:
• For extra fudgy brownies, underbake by 1-2 minutes. For cakier brownies, bake the full 32 minutes.
• Use a metal pan, not glass, for proper heat conduction and the ideal texture.
• Serve at room temperature for the best flavor and texture.
Food Safety:
• Ensure eggs are at room temperature to blend smoothly into the batter.
• Cool brownies completely before covering or frosting to prevent condensation.