From Scratch

Fudgy or cakey? That’s always the question of preference about this quintessential American treat, the brownie. Of course, some people are happy with them either way.

These are fudgy and couldn’t be faster or easier. They’re also thin, baked in an oblong pan instead of the usual square, which is ideal because they’re rich. A small portion is hit-the-spot satisfying as it almost literally melts in your mouth.

Key to any good brownies, after quality ingredients, is not to overbake them as many people do. If they look done, they’re probably overdone. These brownies are and remain moist because of the sugar; it seems like a lot (and it is) but the chocolate is unsweetened so they’re not toothache sweet. I don’t usually sprinkle additional nuts on top but this time I would have had just a few tablespoons left in the can, so into the chopper they went.

A bowl, a spoon, a microwave and you’re done. Who needs a mix?

One Bowl Brownies

Adapted from Baker’s Chocolate

1 1/2 sticks unsalted butter (6 ounces)
4 squares unsweetened chocolate (4 ounces)
2 cups sugar (14 ounces)
3 large eggs, room temperature
1 tsp. vanilla extract
1 cup all-purpose flour (4 1/4 ounces)
1 1/2 cups chopped walnuts (6 ounces) *

* plus more for sprinkling on top, if desired

Spray a 9 x 13″ pan or line it with aluminum foil, spray, and set aside. Place a rack in the center of the oven and preheat to 350 F/180 C/ Gas Mark 4.

Place the butter and chocolate in a large, microwavable bowl and microwave on high for two minutes. Stir to incorporate and fully melt the chocolate. Set aside for 1 -2 minutes to cool slightly.

Add the sugar and stir to blend. Add the eggs and vanilla and mix well. Add the flour and nuts, stirring gently until all flour is incorporated. Batter will be thick.

Scrape into prepared pan, sprinkle with extra chopped nuts if using, and bake 27 - 34 minutes, until the edges are set but not crusty and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs attached.

Allow to cool completely on a rack before cutting into squares or rectangles.

36 brownies

Related: New Classic Brownies

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