Introduction

These Best Cocoa Fudge Brownies are rich, decadent, and perfectly fudgy. Made with a blend of cocoa and chocolate chips, they offer an intense chocolate flavor in every bite. Whether for a special occasion or an everyday treat, these brownies never disappoint.

A close-up view of chocolate brownies cut into square pieces. Each brownie has a shiny, cracked, and slightly crispy top layer that is light brown and textured like cracked leather. Below the top layer, the inside looks dense, dark, and moist with a rich chocolate color. The brownies are tightly packed, showing clear lines where they were cut, and the overall look emphasizes the contrast between the crispy top and the soft inside. The background is a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

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, omit if you don’t like coffee)
3/4 cup (170g) unsalted butter
2 tablespoons (28ml) oil (canola, vegetable, or coconut oil)
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

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper, then lightly spray it with non-stick baking spray and set aside.
Step 2: In a large bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, salt, cocoa powder, and espresso powder. Set this dry mix aside.
Step 3: In a medium saucepan, combine the butter, oil, and 1/3 cup of the sugar. Heat over medium heat, stirring frequently until the butter is fully melted. Remove from heat.
Step 4: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, egg yolk, vanilla extract (if using), and the remaining sugar until well combined, about 30 seconds.
Step 5: Slowly pour the warm butter mixture into the egg mixture, a little at a time, whisking constantly until fully incorporated.
Step 6: Add the dry ingredients and chocolate chips to the wet mixture. Using a rubber spatula, gently fold just until combined. Be careful not to over mix — the batter should still look slightly streaky.
Step 7: Pour the batter into the prepared pan, smoothing the top evenly.
Step 8: Bake for 28 to 30 minutes, or until the edges are firm and the top has a shiny, slightly cracked surface.
Step 9: Remove the pan from the oven and let the brownies cool completely on a wire rack before slicing to achieve clean cuts.

Tips & Variations

For extra fudgy brownies, avoid over mixing the batter once the dry ingredients are added.
Try swapping chocolate chips for chopped nuts or white chocolate chips for a different texture and flavor.
If you prefer a more intense coffee flavor, add a teaspoon of brewed espresso instead of espresso powder.
Use parchment paper with an overhang for easy removal of brownies from the pan.

Storage

Store cooled brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze brownies wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and foil for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw at room temperature and warm slightly in the microwave if desired.

How to Serve

There are three thick, square brownies stacked on top of each other against a white marbled texture. Each brownie has a rich, dark brown color inside with a slightly cracked, golden-brown crispy top sprinkled with a few white coarse salt crystals. The edges are a bit darker and the texture looks fudgy and dense. The lighting highlights the shiny, crackled surface and the softness inside. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use Dutch-processed cocoa instead of natural cocoa powder?

Yes, Dutch-processed cocoa can be used but it is less acidic and may change the texture slightly. It generally results in a richer, smoother flavor.

Why is espresso powder added to brownie recipes?

Espresso powder enhances the chocolate flavor, making it taste deeper and more intense, while not imparting a strong coffee taste if used in small amounts.