Description

A simple one-bowl recipe for dense, fudgy brownies with a signature crackly top. This small batch yields 6-8 squares, perfect for late-night cravings or quick desserts without the mess.

Ingredients

Scale

4 tablespoons (60g) unsalted butter
½ cup (100g) granulated sugar
2 large eggs
¼ cup (30g) all-purpose flour
¼ cup (20g) unsweetened cocoa powder
¼ teaspoon salt
Optional: 2 tablespoons chocolate chips
Optional: 2 tablespoons chopped walnuts or pecans

Instructions

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line a 6-inch square baking pan with parchment paper.
Melt the butter in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second intervals, stirring until smooth. Let it cool for a minute so it is warm, not hot.
Add the granulated sugar to the warm melted butter. Whisk vigorously for 30-60 seconds until the mixture looks glossy and slightly thickened.
Add the eggs (and vanilla extract if using) to the bowl. Whisk vigorously again until the batter is shiny, emulsified, and fully blended.
Add the cocoa powder, flour, and salt. Gently fold these dry ingredients into the wet mixture using a whisk or spatula until just combined. Do not overmix.
Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly.
Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the top is crackly and set. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out with a few moist crumbs attached.
Let the brownies cool in the pan for at least 10 minutes to firm up before lifting them out and slicing into squares.

Notes

For the best crackly top, ensure the butter is warm (not hot) when adding sugar, and whisk vigorously. Do not overbake; the center should look slightly underdone as it will continue to cook while cooling. If using an 8-inch pan, reduce baking time by 2-3 minutes. For gluten-free, substitute flour with a 1:1 gluten-free blend. For vegan, use flax eggs and vegan butter/coconut oil.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Category: Dessert
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 square
Calories: 180
Sugar: 18
Sodium: 90
Fat: 9
Saturated Fat: 5
Carbohydrates: 24
Fiber: 2
Protein: 3

Keywords: small batch brownies, fudgy brownies, crackly top brownies, one bowl brownies, easy dessert, chocolate brownies, 6 ingredient brownies