The Mary Berry Chocolate Brownies are rich, fudgy, and absolutely delicious, with a crisp top and soft center. This classic brownie recipe is easy to make and perfect for any chocolate lover. Ideal for gatherings, birthdays, or a comforting treat, these brownies are guaranteed to satisfy your chocolate cravings.
What are Mary Berry Chocolate Brownies?
Mary Berry’s Chocolate Brownies are a decadent, fudgy dessert made with dark chocolate and butter for a rich flavor and dense texture. The brownies have a slightly crispy top and a moist, gooey center that makes them irresistible. You can enjoy them on their own or with a scoop of ice cream for an extra treat.
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Why You Should Try This Recipe
- Rich and chocolatey: Perfect for true chocolate lovers.
- Easy to make: Uses simple ingredients and straightforward steps.
- Great for sharing: Ideal for parties, picnics, or family gatherings.
- Customizable: Add nuts, chocolate chips, or caramel for variety.
- Classic dessert: A timeless treat that everyone loves.
Ingredients Needed to Make Mary Berry Chocolate Brownies
For the Brownies:
- Dark chocolate (175g, roughly chopped): Adds a rich, chocolatey base.
- Butter (175g, unsalted): Adds moisture and richness.
- Caster sugar (275g): Sweetens and creates a crispy top.
- Self-raising flour (85g): Adds structure while keeping the brownies fudgy.
- Cocoa powder (40g): Deepens the chocolate flavor.
- Eggs (3 large): Binds the ingredients and adds richness.
- Vanilla extract (1 tsp): Enhances the chocolate flavor.
Optional Add-Ins:
- Chopped walnuts or pecans (50g): For a nutty crunch.
- Chocolate chips (50g): For extra gooey chocolate pockets.
- Salt flakes (for sprinkling on top): Adds a touch of contrast to the sweetness.
Equipment Needed
- Mixing bowl: For combining ingredients.
- Small saucepan: For melting chocolate and butter.
- 8×8-inch square baking tin: Greased and lined with parchment paper for easy removal.
- Spatula: For folding the ingredients.
Instructions to Make Mary Berry Chocolate Brownies
Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Tin
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) or 160°C (fan).
- Grease and line an 8×8-inch square baking tin with parchment paper.
Step 2: Melt the Chocolate and Butter
- In a small saucepan over low heat, melt the dark chocolate and butter together, stirring occasionally until smooth and fully combined.
- Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
Step 3: Beat the Sugar and Eggs
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk the caster sugar and eggs together until the mixture is light and frothy.
- Stir in the vanilla extract.
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
- Gently fold the melted chocolate mixture into the sugar and egg mixture until fully incorporated.
- Sift the self-raising flour and cocoa powder into the bowl, and gently fold until you have a smooth batter. Be careful not to overmix.
Step 5: Add Optional Mix-Ins
- If desired, fold in chopped nuts or chocolate chips for extra texture and flavor.
Step 6: Bake the Brownies
- Pour the brownie batter into the prepared baking tin, smoothing the top with a spatula.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes. The brownies are ready when the top has formed a thin crust and a skewer inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs (avoid overbaking for fudgy brownies).
Step 7: Cool and Slice
- Allow the brownies to cool in the tin for about 10-15 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Once cooled, slice into squares and enjoy.
What Goes Well with Mary Berry Chocolate Brownies?
- Vanilla ice cream: A classic pairing that balances the richness.
- Whipped cream: Adds lightness and contrasts with the fudgy texture.
- Fresh berries: Raspberries or strawberries provide a refreshing tartness.
- Chocolate sauce: Drizzle over the brownies for extra indulgence.
- Espresso or coffee: Complements the chocolate flavor beautifully.
Expert Tips for Making the Best Mary Berry Chocolate Brownies
- Use quality chocolate: Good-quality dark chocolate enhances the flavor and texture of the brownies.
- Don’t overbake: Check the brownies at 25 minutes to ensure a fudgy texture.
- Let them cool fully: Brownies set as they cool, so wait for them to cool before slicing.
- Customize the mix-ins: Add nuts, caramel, or even peanut butter swirls for a unique twist.
Easy Variations of Mary Berry Chocolate Brownies
- Peanut butter brownies: Swirl a few tablespoons of peanut butter into the batter before baking.
- Salted caramel brownies: Drizzle caramel sauce and sprinkle with sea salt for a sweet-salty treat.
- Mocha brownies: Add 1 tsp of espresso powder to enhance the chocolate flavor.
- Mint chocolate brownies: Add a few drops of peppermint extract for a refreshing twist.
- Gluten-free brownies: Substitute self-raising flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
Best Practices to Store Mary Berry Chocolate Brownies
- Room temperature: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- Refrigerate for longer storage: Keep in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, allowing them to come to room temperature before serving.
- Freeze for later: Wrap individual brownies in plastic wrap, place in a freezer-safe bag, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature.
Best Practices to Serve Mary Berry Chocolate Brownies
Serve brownies at room temperature or slightly warmed. For a dessert-style serving, add a scoop of vanilla ice cream or drizzle with chocolate sauce.
How Can I Make Mary Berry Chocolate Brownies Healthier?
- Reduce sugar: Use less caster sugar or a natural sweetener.
- Use whole-wheat flour: Substitute part of the flour for whole-wheat flour for added fiber.
- Add dark chocolate chips: Dark chocolate chips add antioxidants and a richer flavor.
- Substitute butter: Use coconut oil in place of butter for a healthier fat option.
Nutrition Value (per serving):
- Calories: 280
- Fat: 16g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Protein: 4g
- Fiber: 2g
FAQs
How do I make sure Mary Berry Chocolate Brownies stay fudgy?
To keep brownies fudgy, avoid overmixing the batter and remove them from the oven when a skewer inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. Overbaking can make brownies cakey instead of fudgy.
Can I freeze Mary Berry Chocolate Brownies?
Yes, brownies freeze well. Wrap each brownie tightly in plastic wrap, place them in a freezer-safe container, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
What type of chocolate is best for brownies?
Dark chocolate with at least 70% cocoa is ideal for a rich, intense flavor. Using high-quality chocolate improves the overall taste and texture of the brownies.
Can I make Mary Berry Chocolate Brownies gluten-free?
Yes, substitute self-raising flour with a gluten-free self-raising flour blend. Check for additional xanthan gum in the mix if needed to ensure the brownies hold together well.
Final Words
The Mary Berry Chocolate Brownies are the ultimate indulgence for chocolate lovers, with a crisp top and gooey center. This easy, classic recipe is versatile and customizable, making it perfect for any occasion. Serve with a scoop of ice cream, fresh berries, or enjoy on its own for a deliciously rich treat!
More By British Baking Recipe
PrintMary Berry Chocolate Brownies
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 25
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 16 brownies
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: British
Description
Mary Berry’s Chocolate Brownies are a decadent, fudgy dessert made with dark chocolate and butter for a rich flavor and dense texture. The brownies have a slightly crispy top and a moist, gooey center that makes them irresistible. You can enjoy them on their own or with a scoop of ice cream for an extra treat.
Ingredients
For the Brownies:
- Dark chocolate (175g, roughly chopped): Adds a rich, chocolatey base.
- Butter (175g, unsalted): Adds moisture and richness.
- Caster sugar (275g): Sweetens and creates a crispy top.
- Self-raising flour (85g): Adds structure while keeping the brownies fudgy.
- Cocoa powder (40g): Deepens the chocolate flavor.
- Eggs (3 large): Binds the ingredients and adds richness.
- Vanilla extract (1 tsp): Enhances the chocolate flavor.
Optional Add-Ins:
- Chopped walnuts or pecans (50g): For a nutty crunch.
- Chocolate chips (50g): For extra gooey chocolate pockets.
- Salt flakes (for sprinkling on top): Adds a touch of contrast to the sweetness.
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Tin
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) or 160°C (fan).
- Grease and line an 8×8-inch square baking tin with parchment paper.
Step 2: Melt the Chocolate and Butter
- In a small saucepan over low heat, melt the dark chocolate and butter together, stirring occasionally until smooth and fully combined.
- Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
Step 3: Beat the Sugar and Eggs
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk the caster sugar and eggs together until the mixture is light and frothy.
- Stir in the vanilla extract.
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
- Gently fold the melted chocolate mixture into the sugar and egg mixture until fully incorporated.
- Sift the self-raising flour and cocoa powder into the bowl, and gently fold until you have a smooth batter. Be careful not to overmix.
Step 5: Add Optional Mix-Ins
- If desired, fold in chopped nuts or chocolate chips for extra texture and flavor.
Step 6: Bake the Brownies
- Pour the brownie batter into the prepared baking tin, smoothing the top with a spatula.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes. The brownies are ready when the top has formed a thin crust and a skewer inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs (avoid overbaking for fudgy brownies).
Step 7: Cool and Slice
- Allow the brownies to cool in the tin for about 10-15 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Once cooled, slice into squares and enjoy.