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.