The chewy chocolate brownie is a timeless classic that brings out the best in every bite: rich cocoa flavor, shiny crinkly tops, and a melt-in-your-mouth texture that balances fudgy density with just the right amount of chew. Using a combo of butter and oil, Dutch cocoa, and chocolate chips, this recipe delivers next-level decadence with surprisingly minimal effort.
Perfect for chocoholics and casual bakers alike, this recipe doesn’t require fancy techniques or mixers—just one bowl, a whisk, and your favorite pan. Whether you’re baking for a crowd or treating yourself to a cozy dessert moment, these brownies will quickly become a go-to in your kitchen rotation.
Full recipe:
Ingredients:
-
5 tablespoons (71g) unsalted butter
-
1 1/4 cups (249g) granulated sugar
-
2 large eggs + 1 egg yolk, cold
-
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
-
1/3 cup (74g) vegetable oil
-
3/4 cup (75g) cocoa powder (preferably Dutch-processed)
-
1/2 cup (63g) all-purpose flour
-
1 tablespoon cornstarch
-
1/4 teaspoon salt
-
3/4 cup (128g) semisweet chocolate chips
Directions:
-
Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C). Line an 8×8-inch light-colored metal baking pan with parchment paper or foil and lightly grease.
-
In a microwave-safe bowl, melt butter with sugar for about 1 minute. Stir until smooth.
-
Whisk in the eggs, egg yolk, and vanilla until fully combined.
-
Stir in vegetable oil and cocoa powder until smooth and glossy.
-
With a rubber spatula, gently fold in flour, cornstarch, and salt until no streaks remain.
-
Fold in the chocolate chips evenly.
-
Spread the batter evenly into the prepared pan.
-
Bake for about 30 minutes, or until the edges are set and a tester inserted into the center comes out with moist crumbs. Do not overbake.
-
Cool completely in the pan before slicing for clean edges and chewy texture.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 30 minutes | Total Time: 40 minutes
Kcal: 315 kcal per serving | Servings: 9 large brownies
What Makes Brownies Chewy?
Brownies can be categorized into three main textures: cakey, fudgy, and chewy. The key to achieving that perfect chewiness lies in a careful balance of fat, sugar, and flour. A higher ratio of sugar and a mix of fats, such as butter and oil, contribute to the signature chew. The right amount of eggs also plays a crucial role in developing the structure while maintaining moisture.
The Science Behind Chewy Brownies
To get the ideal chewy consistency, understanding the role of each ingredient is essential:
- Fat: Butter provides richness, while a small amount of oil helps with chewiness since it remains liquid at room temperature.
- Sugar: A mix of white and brown sugar adds not just sweetness but also affects moisture retention. Brown sugar, in particular, enhances chewiness due to its molasses content.
- Flour: Using all-purpose flour provides enough gluten development to add structure without making the brownies tough.
- Eggs: They act as a binding agent, and using an extra egg yolk can increase chewiness by adding richness.
- Cocoa Powder vs. Melted Chocolate: Dutch-processed cocoa offers an intense chocolate flavor while controlling acidity, whereas melted chocolate contributes to a fudgy texture. A combination of both gives the best results.
Baking Techniques for Chewy Brownies
Baking time and temperature significantly impact texture. A lower temperature and slightly longer baking time allow for even heat distribution, ensuring a gooey, chewy center without overcooking the edges. Additionally, cooling the brownies completely before slicing helps set the structure, preventing crumbling.
Expert Tips for the Perfect Chewy Brownies
- Use Cornstarch: Adding a small amount of cornstarch can help create a softer texture while still keeping the brownies chewy.
- Mixing Method: Overmixing the batter develops too much gluten, leading to a tough texture. Gentle folding ensures chewiness.
- Resting the Batter: Letting the batter sit before baking allows the flour to hydrate, leading to better texture and flavor.
- Using a Metal Pan: Glass or ceramic pans retain heat differently, which can lead to overbaking. A light-colored metal pan ensures even baking.
- Undercooking Slightly: Removing the brownies from the oven when the center is just set ensures they remain moist and chewy.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overbaking: The residual heat continues cooking the brownies after they are removed from the oven. A toothpick inserted should have moist crumbs, not wet batter or come out completely clean.
- Skipping the Cooling Time: Cutting warm brownies makes them fall apart. Let them set properly before slicing.
- Using the Wrong Sugar Ratio: Too much white sugar leads to a crispier texture, while too much brown sugar can make them too soft.
Conclusion
Perfecting chewy brownies is a balance of the right ingredients, precise baking techniques, and patience. By focusing on sugar ratios, fat composition, and mixing methods, you can achieve the ultimate chewy brownie that satisfies every bite. Whether enjoyed on their own or paired with a scoop of ice cream, these brownies are bound to be a favorite. Mastering these techniques will ensure consistently delicious results every time you bake!