Soft Fudge Brownies

Name: Soft Fudge Brownies
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 16 brownies
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter, melted; 2 cups granulated sugar; 4 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon baking powder

Highlighted under: Sweet Indulgence

I can't get enough of these Soft Fudge Brownies! The rich, fudgy texture paired with the perfect balance of sweetness makes them my go-to treat whenever I’m craving something chocolatey. Baking these brownies is a delightful experience as I get to mix the ingredients and fill my kitchen with irresistible aromas. Whether enjoyed warm with a scoop of ice cream or cool with a dusting of powdered sugar, each bite feels like pure indulgence. Trust me, these brownies are destined to become your new favorite sweet treat!

Created by

Bethany Clarke

Last updated on 2026-02-10T18:01:35.651Z

I remember the first time I made these Soft Fudge Brownies for a family gathering. I was a bit anxious, as baking for others always comes with a bit of pressure. To my surprise, they turned out to be a huge hit! I learned that the key is not to over-bake them, allowing for that melty, fudgy center, which is what everyone loves the most.

After trying several variations, I discovered adding a touch of espresso powder can really enhance the chocolate flavor without making it taste like coffee. It’s a game-changer! Now, whenever I bake these brownies, I always include that extra secret ingredient, and they never fail to impress.

Why You Will Love These Brownies
Ultra-rich chocolate flavor that satisfies every sweet tooth.
Fudgy texture that contrasts beautifully with a slightly crisp top.
Quick and simple to prepare, making them perfect for any occasion.

Understanding the Ingredients

The key to achieving that ultra-rich chocolate flavor in these brownies lies primarily in the quality of cocoa powder you choose. A high-quality unsweetened cocoa powder, such as Dutch-processed, will deliver a deeper chocolate taste compared to regular cocoa. This ingredient not only imparts flavor but also contributes to the dense texture that these brownies are known for. Don't skimp on this crucial element; it truly makes a difference in the final product.

In addition to cocoa powder, the butter plays a vital role in maintaining the brownies' fudgy consistency. By melting the butter, you create a smooth batter that encourages the cocoa powder to incorporate fully. This melting process also helps in achieving that slightly crisp top surface while keeping the interior soft and chewy. If you're looking for a dairy-free option, you can substitute melted coconut oil, though it may impart a subtle coconut flavor.

Perfecting the Baking Process

Baking time is crucial for achieving the perfect texture in these brownies. While the recommended baking time is 25 minutes, it's important to keep a close eye on them in the last few minutes. Ovens can vary significantly, so check for doneness around the 20-minute mark. When you insert a toothpick into the center, it should come out with a few moist crumbs attached. If it comes out clean, the brownies may be overbaked and lose their signature fudge-like quality.

Cooling them in the pan for at least 10 minutes before slicing is essential as it allows the brownies to set properly. Depending on your kitchen’s temperature, you may need to let them cool longer if they still seem too soft in the center. For easier cutting, I recommend using a plastic knife or a bench scraper, which helps create clean edges without pulling or tearing the brownies.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

These Soft Fudge Brownies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, maintaining their rich taste and texture. For longer storage, freeze individual squares by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and then placing them in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll stay fresh for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy them, simply let them thaw at room temperature or warm them slightly in the microwave for 10-15 seconds.

Serving your brownies can be as simple or elaborate as you like. They’re delicious on their own, but for a fun twist, consider adding toppings like caramel sauce, chocolate ganache, or a sprinkle of sea salt to accentuate the chocolate flavor. Pairing warm brownies with vanilla ice cream creates a delightful contrast in temperature and texture, elevating your dessert experience even further.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to whip up these delicious brownies:

Brownie Ingredients

1 cup unsalted butter, melted
2 cups granulated sugar
4 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon baking powder

Once you have everything ready, you’re just a few steps away from chocolate heaven!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create the ultimate fudgy brownies:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13-inch baking pan.

Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine melted butter and sugar. Mix in the eggs one at a time, then add vanilla extract.

Combine the Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, salt, and baking powder.

Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Do not over-mix.

Bake

Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly. Bake for 25 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick; it should come out with a few moist crumbs.

Cool and Serve

Once baked, let the brownies cool in the pan for at least 10 minutes before slicing into squares.

Enjoy your brownies warm or at room temperature, and share with friends and family!

Pro Tips

For an extra touch, consider adding chocolate chips or nuts into the batter before baking.

Key Techniques for Success

When mixing your wet ingredients, ensure that the melted butter and sugar are blended thoroughly to form a glossy mixture. This not only amalgamates the flavors but also helps to dissolve the sugar, leading to a more even texture in the brownies. The eggs should be added one at a time to maintain the emulsification process, which is key to achieving that fudgy consistency.

Another important technique is to mix the dry ingredients separately before combining them with the wet ingredients. Whisking the flour, cocoa powder, salt, and baking powder together helps to break up any lumps and evenly distribute the leavening agents. This ensures that each brownie rises uniformly and develops a pleasant texture.

Variations and Add-Ins

Feel free to experiment with mix-ins to customize your brownies to suit your taste. Adding a cup of chocolate chips or chunks before baking can enhance the chocolate flavor and provide delightful pockets of melted chocolate. Alternatively, you might try folding in chopped nuts or swirls of peanut butter or dulce de leche for a unique twist.

If you want to lighten the brownies up a bit without sacrificing flavor, consider replacing half of the butter with unsweetened applesauce. This will yield a slightly less rich brownie while retaining the fudgy texture. For a gluten-free option, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend. Just be sure to check the blend's instructions for any adjustments in quantities.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of sugar?

Yes, you can substitute brown sugar for white sugar for a slightly different flavor and a chewier texture.

→ How do I store leftover brownies?

Store cooled brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days, or refrigerate for extended freshness.

→ Can I freeze these brownies?

Absolutely! Wrap them well in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. They can be frozen for up to three months.

→ What can I use instead of eggs?

You can use applesauce or flaxseed meal as an egg substitute. For one egg, use 1/4 cup of applesauce or 1 tablespoon of flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water.