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    TaraTeaspoon » Desserts » Brownies + Bars » Brownies

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    Published: by

    The Ultimate Chewy Brownie Recipe

    Jump to Recipe Jump to Video Pin Recipe
    ultimate brownie recipe pin
    The Ultimate Chewy Brownie Recipe
    The Ultimate Chewy Brownie Recipe
    The Ultimate Chewy Brownie Recipe

    This is the BEST chewy brownie recipe. These brownies are both fudgy and gooey! With just 10 pantry ingredients, they have double the chocolate and a classic crinkle top. Made easier by melting ingredients in the microwave, and they fit perfectly in a standard 9-by-13 inch baking pan.


    Homemade brownies are one of my favorite desserts to make. I have many different varieties besides classic chewy brownies. Some of my other favorites are gooey caramel brownies, cookie stuffed brownies, and peppermint cloud brownies.

    I'll tell you the secrets to chewy brownies, and give you a recipe for the ultimate brownie recipe. These classics are rich, chocolatey, dense, and flavorful, and make a full 9-by-13-inch pan. Plus try the Best Frosting For Brownies if you want to top them off!

    Stack of three chewy brownies on pink plate

    In short, this is the BEST fudgy brownie recipe. It uses a genius blend of chocolatey goodness to create perfectly dense, chewy brownies every single time. They're my favorite dessert especially when warm with vanilla ice cream.

    Jump to:
    • Homemade vs. Box Mix Brownies
    • Ingredients in this chewy brownie recipe
    • How to make chewy chocolate brownies
    • Brownie recipe add-ins
    • Tips for the best chewy brownies
    • Frequently Asked Questions
    • More easy brownie recipes:
    • The Ultimate Homemade Chewy Brownies

    This chewy fudge brownie recipe uses the microwave to help minimize the mess while baking. It's a no-nonsense recipe that results in moist brownies that don't taste underdone!

    These brownies are made with unsweetened cocoa powder and melted chocolate, which gives them a dark, intense flavor. Frosting on top packs in a powerful punch of sweetness that ties everything together. 

    Cut chewy brownies on parchment paper.

    Homemade vs. Box Mix Brownies

    If you're a fan of boxed brownie mixes, and especially love the crowd-favorite, Ghirardelli brownie mix, you'll love these EVEN more.

    Boxed brownie mixes usually result in dense, chewy brownies and that's what we've become accustomed to. That being said, a homemade brownie will be much more tender, have real chocolate and vanilla flavor, and a more authentic buttery melt-in-your-mouth texture.

    That being said, I love a boxed mix sometimes, and have a dedicated post to delicious mix-ins for boxed brownies if you're interested!

    Ingredients in this chewy brownie recipe

    One of my favorite aspects of this ultimate brownie recipe is that it's so easy to follow and has only 10 ingredients! Most of the ingredients can already be found in your home:

    • Unsalted butter - I use unsalted so I can control the amount of salt in the recipe. If you only have salted butter on hand, you can just reduce the salt in the recipe by a pinch.
    • Semisweet chocolate - This adds richness and texture to the classic chewy brownies. You can use bittersweet chocolate here if you want a less sweet brownie, but semisweet will give you the typical brownie flavor.
    • Unsweetened cocoa powder - You'll need this for the deep chocolate flavor a true fudge brownie recipe calls for. Don't use Dutch processed, regular unsweetened cocoa is perfect.
    • All-purpose flour - You can swap this for gluten-free all-purpose flour and make gluten free homemade brownies!
    • Baking powder - The leavening boost the eggs will need to help these brownies bake into chewy deliciousness! Otherwise they'd be hockey pucks!
    • Salt - Use regular table salt or a finely ground sea or Himalayan salt. It distributes better in baked goods than Kosher salt.
    • Granulated sugar - Adds needed sweet flavor and structure to this baked good.
    • Light brown sugar - The added molasses in brown sugar helps create a caramelized chocolate flavor in the brownies.
    • Eggs - Always use large eggs in baking, as that is what was used to test the recipe. Using larger or smaller eggs would change the chemistry and liquid amount in the brownies.
    • Vanilla extract - Even a splash of vanilla extract brings out the caramel and chocolate flavors in baked goods.

    Can the brownies be frosted?

    Absolutely! Let the brownies cool completely, then top with my favorite brownie frosting.

    Add nuts with your frosting!

    In fact, if you have a crowd that doesn't love nuts, but you do, this is a great place to add them to your brownies. Right after I frost the brownies I sprinkle half the pan with chopped walnuts of pecans before the frosting sets.

    That way I get my brownies with nuts, and others don't have to eat them!

    frosting for brownies pin

    How to make chewy chocolate brownies

    The best chewy brownies are made by following the right baking method, and including correct amounts of each ingredient.

    The mixture of white and brown sugar, melting the butter, cocoa, and chocolate together, and beating the egg mixture just the right amount all contribute to chewy brownies.

    To make chewy brownies melt the butter, chocolate, and cocoa together in the microwave to intensify the cocoa and chocolate flavor. I let this mixture cool a bit before mixing it into the other ingredients. 

    Meanwhile, beat the sugar, eggs, and vanilla until pale (about 2 to 3 minutes). Stir in the cooled chocolate mixture, followed by the dry ingredients.

    Transfer the brownie batter into a parchment paper-lined 9-by-13-inch pan or a quarter sheet pan.

    Bake for about 30 minutes, then cool before slicing.

    Cut brownies on parchment and cutting board

    What makes brownies chewy?

    Wondering how to make homemade brownies more chewy? Well, I achieve perfectly chewy brownies using a few tricks:

    • Using a mixture of granulated and brown sugar creates the perfect sweetness and chew, since the brown sugar has a bit of molasses in it. 
    • Four whole eggs help with leavening, making the brownies rise. It also makes them rich and chewy.
    • Beating the sugar and eggs until pale helps amp up the chewy factor as well.

    How to tell when homemade brownies are done

    For this ultimate brownie recipe, I bake the brownies for about 27 to 30 minutes at 350ºF.

    You'll know the brownies are done when a toothpick inserted into the center of the pan comes out with a few crumbs, but is not wet.

    Overcooking brownies is easy because you can't tell doneness by the color. The toothpick test is great, but if in doubt remove the brownies from the oven! They will continue cooking slightly in the pan.

    How to cut chewy brownies cleanly

    First, you'll need to let the pan of brownies cool completely. Then, run a sharp chef's knife under warm tap water and pat it dry.

    Press the knife into the brownies until it cuts all the way through. Wipe the knife carefully with a towel that's been dampened in warm water and repeat this process until you've cut the entire pan into squares.

    Avoid sawing the knife back and forth while cutting the brownies. This creates jagged edges and tears them apart.

    You can also use a plastic knife to cut brownies. Like the disposable kind you take on a picnic! It acts as a non-stick knife and cuts clean slices.

    homemade chewy brownies in a baking pan

    Brownie recipe add-ins

    You can add nuts or chocolate chips to these classic brownies. Or you can frost them and sprinkle additions on top.

    This brownie recipe can act as the perfect homemade brownie base to my creative mix ins. Look for different flavors in my post about Think Outside Of The Box Brownies.

    Tips for the best chewy brownies

    • For a dark chocolate taste, swap the semisweet chocolate for bittersweet chocolate. The brownies have enough sugar to keep them sweet with darker chocolate. 
    • Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. 
    • Frost using my favorite brownie frosting recipe and top with chopped nuts, if desired.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    How long do chewy brownies last?

    They'll last up to three days at room temperature. Cover the pan with aluminum foil. You can also store cut brownies in an airtight container.

    What makes a brownie chewy vs. fudgy?

    A super fudgy brownie often has less flour and an additional egg or egg yolk as well as more fat (butter) added to the batter. Chewy brownies have a touch more flour but are still moist and rich. I've struck a perfect mix in this recipe.

    Should I use baking soda or baking powder in chewy brownies?

    A small amount of baking powder is used in this recipe to give the brownies. Chewy brownies don't need much leavener, it's best for them to be dense so they remain fudgy and chewy.

    More easy brownie recipes:

    When it comes to brownies, there seems to be an unlimited number of options. Here are some of my favorites.

    • Gooey Caramel Brownies
    • Peppermint Cloud Brownies
    • Fudgy Squash Brownies
    • The Ultimate Cookie Stuffed Brownies

    Let me know how it went!

    Scroll to the bottom of the page to rate ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ and comment on this recipe. Leaving comments helps other too!

    Stack of three delicious classic brownies

    The Ultimate Homemade Chewy Brownies

    Tara Teaspoon
    This is the BEST chewy brownie recipe, these brownies are both fudgy and gooey! With just 10 ingredients, they have double the chocolate and a classic crinkle top. Made easier with the microwave, they fit perfectly in a 9x13 baking pan.
    4.88 from 33 votes
    Print Recipe Pin Recipe
    Prep Time 25 minutes mins
    Cook Time 30 minutes mins
    Total Time 55 minutes mins
    Course Baking
    Cuisine American
    Servings 16 squares
    Calories 366 kcal

    Ingredients
      

    • 12 tablespoons unsalted butter
    • 12 ounces semisweet chocolate chopped
    • ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
    • 1½ cups all-purpose flour
    • ½ teaspoon baking powder
    • ½ teaspoon fine salt
    • 1 cup granulated sugar
    • 1 cup light brown sugar
    • 4 large eggs
    • 1 tablespoon vanilla extract

    Instructions
     

    • Heat oven to 350ºF. Line a greased 9-by-13-inch pan (or quarter sheet pan) with foil or parchment allowing it to hang over the sides. Set aside.
    • Put butter, chocolate, and cocoa in a medium microwave-safe bowl and microwave until butter is melted. Stir, microwaving for 30 more seconds if needed, until chocolate is melted and mixture is smooth. Let cool slightly.
    • Whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt and set aside.
    • Put sugar, eggs and vanilla in a large mixing bowl and beat on medium-high speed until pale, 2 to 3 minutes. Add chocolate mixture; beat until combined. Add flour mixture; beat, scraping down sides of bowl, until well incorporated.
    • Pour batter into prepared pan; smooth top with a spatula. Bake until a toothpick inserted into the brownies comes out with a few crumbs, but is not wet, 27 to 30 min (don't over bake). Let cool in pan, then lift out brownies. Cut into squares, or frost and then cut.

    Video

    Notes

    • For a darker chocolate taste, swap the semisweet chocolate for bittersweet chocolate. the brownies have enough sugar to keep them sweet with darker chocolate. 
    • Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. 
    • Frost using my brownie frosting recipe and top with chopped nuts if desired.

    Nutrition

    Calories: 366kcalCarbohydrates: 48gProtein: 5gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 11gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gTrans Fat: 1gCholesterol: 65mgSodium: 97mgPotassium: 224mgFiber: 3gSugar: 34gVitamin A: 332IUCalcium: 44mgIron: 3mg
    Want to watch videos to show you how to cook?Check out our Youtube and try this recipe and more.

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    About Tara Teaspoon

    I’ve been in the food publishing business for over 20 years, creating recipes & food-styling for magazines, books, television & advertising. Order my new cookbook & stick around for amazing things to eat.

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    Recipe, food styling, photography Tara Teaspoon. Updated August 2023

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    Filed Under: Brownies, Brownies + Bars, Chocolate, Desserts Tagged With: baking, brownies, chocolate, dessert

    Reader Interactions

    Comments

    1. Anne Marie Miller says

      July 01, 2019 at 11:55 am

      So tasty and the perfect consistency. Can't wait to make these again!!

      Reply
      • Tara says

        July 12, 2019 at 10:16 am

        Always a hit!!

        Reply
    2. Gloria | Homemade & Yummy says

      July 01, 2019 at 6:21 pm

      This is my kind of brownie. NO frosting. Simple, basic and so darn delicious. The perfect bbq party dessert. Great for picnics and to take to the cottage too.

      Reply
      • Tara says

        July 12, 2019 at 10:16 am

        Yes, totally agree!!

        Reply
    3. Paula Montenegro says

      July 02, 2019 at 5:58 am

      These images are everything a brownie should be! Amazing! Love the crackly top, it'sperfection.

      Reply
    4. Elaine Benoit says

      July 02, 2019 at 10:11 am

      That crinkly top makes these brownies for me. They look so delicious, moist and perfect!

      Reply
      • Tara says

        July 12, 2019 at 10:15 am

        totally classic, right!?

        Reply
    5. Jacquelyn Hastert says

      July 03, 2019 at 10:45 am

      Love, love, love these Tara! I made them last night and they were divine. My family devoured them in minutes.

      Reply
      • Tara says

        July 12, 2019 at 10:14 am

        Awesome!! You're the best! I'm happy they loved them.

        Reply
    6. Tammy says

      July 05, 2019 at 12:33 pm

      These certainly look like a fantastic batch of brownies!! I wish I could reach in and grab one right now...I absolutely LOVE brownies 🙂

      Reply
    7. Danielle says

      July 05, 2019 at 9:03 pm

      Oh my, just look at that texture! It is incredible. Time for me to test a few recipes as it has been a while since I was using only my favorite one. I guess I should start with yours! 😉

      Reply
      • Tara says

        July 12, 2019 at 10:14 am

        shaking things up is always fun! And delicious.

        Reply
    8. Chef Dennis says

      July 05, 2019 at 9:15 pm

      I'm a sucker for brownies. And your brownies look like little bites of chocolate heaven!

      Reply
    9. Vanessa says

      July 06, 2019 at 12:39 pm

      These are so fudgy, and dense in the best possible brownie way!! Excellent brownie recipe.

      Reply
    10. Ana F says

      July 07, 2019 at 11:35 am

      Made these for my hubby that is a brownie lover and he was all over them! They came out perfect with the right amount of chocolate. Thank you!

      Reply
      • Tara says

        July 12, 2019 at 10:13 am

        Awesome! I'm so happy they were a hit

        Reply
    11. Nicoletta De Angelis Nardelli says

      July 07, 2019 at 4:51 pm

      Love that these brownies have easy ingredients we all have in the fridge and pantry! Plus they look so chocolatey and fudgy! A yummy treat indeed!

      Reply
    12. Claire | The Simple, Sweet Life says

      July 08, 2019 at 1:03 am

      These brownies look truly perfect! Love all of your great tips and tricks for getting them just right.

      Reply
      • Tara says

        July 12, 2019 at 10:13 am

        Ah thanks!

        Reply
    13. Jo says

      July 08, 2019 at 4:45 am

      Never say no to brownies, and especially when it looks so perfect and so delicious! That crinkly top is amazing!

      Reply
      • Tara says

        July 12, 2019 at 10:13 am

        Ohhh thanks! I agree!

        Reply
    14. Mia says

      January 05, 2021 at 10:11 pm

      This is my favorite brownie recipe of all time!

      Reply
    15. Sinaed says

      August 05, 2023 at 12:17 pm

      Way too thin and fudgy for me, but my family liked them. Perhaps I needed to bake them a bit longer. If you like super fudge brownies that are flat and dense you’ll like these. I probably won’t make themagain.

      Reply
    16. Barb A. J. says

      November 05, 2023 at 12:08 am

      I really want to make these for Thanksgiving. They look delicious.
      I do have a question : Is the brown sugar packed or loosely spooned into a measuring cup ? All I have is dark brown sugar will that work ? Thanks ! Happy Holidays !

      Reply
      • Tara Teaspoon says

        November 06, 2023 at 9:39 am

        Hi. Great!
        The brown sugar is lightly packed into the cup. Not spooned.
        Dark brown sugar will work well.
        Enjoy!

        T a r a

        Reply

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