The Best Fudge Brownies (with Crackly Tops)

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Created on September 22nd, 2025 at 05:15 pm

Ultra-Fudgy, Rich, and Easy to Make

Say goodbye to boxed mixes! These homemade cocoa fudge brownies deliver everything you crave—intense chocolate flavor, a chewy center, and that signature shiny, crackly top. 🍫 Whether you’re baking for a cozy weekend treat, a family celebration, or simply to satisfy a deep chocolate craving, these brownies rise to the occasion. Plus, they’re simple to whip up with ingredients you probably already have in your pantry. One bowl, one pan, total chocolate bliss.

🌟 Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These are not your average brownies—these are next-level. The combination of cocoa powder and melted butter creates a deep, indulgent chocolate flavor, while the espresso powder adds a subtle richness (without tasting like coffee). You’ll love the contrast between the gooey interior and the crispy crackly top. Perfect for dessert tables, school bake sales, or just because. One bite and you’ll be hooked!

⏱️ Time Breakdown

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 28 minutes
Inactive Time (Cooling): 2 hours
Total Time: 2 hours 38 minutes
Servings: 1 Pan (9×9)

📝 Ingredients List

1 cup (120g) all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup (43g) unsweetened cocoa powder
1 teaspoon espresso powder (optional)
3/4 cup (170g) unsalted butter
2 Tablespoons (28ml) oil (canola, vegetable, or coconut)
1 and 1/3 cups (265g) granulated sugar, divided
2 large eggs
1 large egg yolk
2 teaspoons vanilla extract (optional but recommended)
3/4 cup (128g) chocolate chips

✨ Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

This recipe doesn’t require fancy gadgets, just a few reliable kitchen basics to keep everything simple and stress-free.

Large skillet or frying pan
Sharp knife
Cutting board
Measuring cups & spoons
Mixing bowls
Wooden spoon or spatula
9×9-inch baking dish
Whisk

👩‍🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×9-inch pan with parchment and spray lightly with baking spray.
Sift flour, baking powder, salt, cocoa powder, and espresso powder in a large bowl. Set aside.
In a saucepan, melt butter with oil and 1/3 cup sugar over medium heat. Stir frequently. Remove from heat once melted.
In a mixing bowl, whisk eggs, egg yolk, vanilla, and remaining sugar until well combined (~30 seconds).
Slowly add warm butter mixture to egg mix a little at a time, whisking constantly.
Fold in dry ingredients and chocolate chips using a rubber spatula. Don’t overmix—stop when the flour disappears.
Spread the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top.
Bake for 28–30 minutes until edges are set and top is shiny with slight cracks.
Cool completely (about 2 hours) before slicing for clean cuts and the ultimate chewy texture. 🍫✨

💡 Pro Tips

For extra gooey brownies, remove from oven at 27 minutes.
Want more structure? Bake for 30–32 minutes.
Don’t skip cooling time—this helps set the brownies properly.
Add chopped nuts for texture, or swap chocolate chips for white or peanut butter chips.
These freeze beautifully! Store slices in an airtight container for up to 3 months.

📊 Nutrition Table

Serving Size	Calories	Protein	Carbs	Fat	Fiber	Sugar
1 square	420	4g	47g	24g	3g	34g

Disclaimer: Nutrition facts are estimated using online tools and may vary based on your ingredients and preparation. Please consult a nutritionist for precise dietary advice.