Indulging in a batch of small batch brownies is like wrapping yourself in a warm, chocolatey hug. Picture this: rich, fudgy goodness that melts in your mouth and leaves you grinning like you just found the last cookie in the jar. Every bite is an explosion of deep cocoa flavor, with a hint of vanilla that dances on your palate, promising an experience that’s both comforting and indulgent.
Whenever I whip up these delightful small batch brownies, I’m transported back to my college dorm days—when late-night study sessions were fueled by laughter and too much caffeine. Friends would gather around my tiny kitchen counter, eagerly waiting for that magical moment when the brownies emerged from the oven, their tops glistening and crackled. It was always an occasion worth celebrating, whether it was a birthday or simply a Tuesday. Let’s dive into this recipe; your taste buds are about to embark on an unforgettable adventure.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These small batch brownies are incredibly easy to prepare, making them perfect for weeknight cravings.
- Their rich chocolate flavor will make any dessert lover weak at the knees.
- The gorgeous glossy top creates a visual treat that’s hard to resist.
- Ideal for sharing with friends or enjoying solo on a cozy night in.
Ingredients for Small Batch Brownies
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Unsalted Butter: Use high-quality butter for the best flavor; it helps create that rich texture we all crave.
Granulated Sugar: This sweetener balances out the bitterness of cocoa and gives our brownies that perfect sweetness.
Cocoa Powder: Opt for unsweetened cocoa powder; it adds depth and richness to our brownies.
All-Purpose Flour: Helps provide structure while keeping our brownies nice and fudgy—no cake-like consistency here!
Eggs: One large egg is crucial for binding everything together and giving those brownies their chewy texture.
Vanilla Extract: A splash of pure vanilla extract elevates the flavor profile—trust me, it makes a difference!
Salt: Just a pinch enhances all the flavors and balances the sweetness beautifully.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Small Batch Brownies
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease an 8×8 inch baking pan with non-stick spray or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
Step 2: Melt the Butter
In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the unsalted butter until it’s completely liquid. This step is essential as it helps incorporate other ingredients smoothly.
Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients
Stir in granulated sugar into the melted butter until combined. Add one egg and a teaspoon of vanilla extract; mix well until smooth.
Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk together cocoa powder, flour, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture into your wet ingredients, stirring gently until just combined—don’t overmix!
Step 5: Bake
Pour your brownie batter into the prepared baking pan and spread evenly. Bake for about 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick comes out slightly sticky but not wet.
Step 6: Cool and Enjoy
Allow them to cool in the pan before cutting them into squares. Serve warm with ice cream on top if you’re feeling particularly adventurous!
Trust me; once you take that first bite of your freshly baked small batch brownies, you’ll be chanting their praises! So go ahead—grab your spatula and let’s make some magic happen in your kitchen today!
You Must Know
- Small batch brownies are the perfect solution for those moments when you crave something chocolaty but don’t want to end up with a mountain of leftovers.
- These fudgy delights are quick to whip up and make any day feel like a special occasion.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by preheating your oven while you mix the ingredients. Combine melted butter and sugar, then add eggs and vanilla before folding in dry ingredients. Pour into a greased baking dish and bake until the edges look firm, leaving the center slightly soft for that gooey goodness.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out chocolate chips for nuts or even dried fruit if you’re feeling adventurous. Consider adding a sprinkle of sea salt on top for that sweet-salty balance or experiment with different extracts like almond or orange for a unique twist.
Storing & Reheating
Store your small batch brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to extend their life, refrigerate them for about a week. To enjoy them warm, pop one in the microwave for 10-15 seconds.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For perfectly fudgy brownies, avoid overmixing after adding flour—this keeps them tender.
- Use high-quality cocoa powder for deeper flavor, and always measure your ingredients accurately.
- A toothpick should come out with a few moist crumbs, not clean.
Sometimes, I whip up these small batch brownies when friends drop by unexpectedly. Their reactions are priceless—everyone’s smiling with chocolate-covered faces, asking for the recipe as if it holds the secret to happiness!
FAQs:
What ingredients are needed for Small Batch Brownies?
To make delicious small batch brownies, you’ll need a few basic ingredients. Gather unsweetened cocoa powder, all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, unsalted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract. You can also add a pinch of salt to enhance the flavors. If you like nuts or chocolate chips, feel free to include them for added texture and taste. This simple list ensures that you create rich, fudgy brownies without needing to make a large batch.
How long do Small Batch Brownies last?
Small batch brownies typically last about 3 to 5 days when stored properly. Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain their freshness. If you want to extend their shelf life, consider refrigerating them. For even longer storage, you can freeze brownies; just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They will retain their quality for up to three months when frozen.
Can I customize my Small Batch Brownies?
Absolutely! One of the best aspects of small batch brownies is their versatility. You can customize the recipe by adding various ingredients such as nuts, chocolate chips, or even swirls of peanut butter or caramel. Consider using different types of chocolate (like dark or white) to change the flavor profile. Feel free to experiment with spices like cinnamon or sea salt on top for a unique twist that suits your taste.
How do I know when my Small Batch Brownies are done baking?
To check if your small batch brownies are done baking, look for a few key indicators. The edges should be firm and slightly pulling away from the sides of the pan while the center remains soft but not too jiggly. You can also insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out with a few moist crumbs attached but not wet batter. Remember, brownies continue cooking slightly after you remove them from the oven, so it’s better to underbake slightly than overbake.
Conclusion for Small Batch Brownies:
In summary, small batch brownies offer a delightful treat that is easy to prepare and customize according to your preferences. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, anyone can whip up these fudgy delights in no time. Whether enjoyed fresh or stored for later indulgence, they satisfy sweet cravings perfectly without overwhelming portions. Try experimenting with mix-ins or toppings to find your ideal flavor combination that will impress friends and family alike!
Small Batch Brownies
Indulge in the ultimate small batch brownies that capture the essence of rich, fudgy goodness in every bite. These delightful treats are perfect for satisfying your chocolate cravings without overwhelming you with leftovers. With a glossy, crackled top and a gooey center, each brownie promises an indulgent experience that will leave you smiling. Perfect for cozy nights or sharing with friends, this recipe is quick and simple—let’s get baking!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Serves 9 brownies 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (113g)
- 1 cup granulated sugar (200g)
- 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder (40g)
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour (65g)
- 1 large egg (50g)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract (5g)
- 1/4 tsp salt
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease an 8×8 inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper.
- Melt the unsalted butter in a microwave-safe bowl.
- Stir in the granulated sugar until combined, then add the egg and vanilla extract, mixing well.
- In another bowl, whisk together the cocoa powder, flour, and salt. Gradually mix this dry mixture into the wet ingredients until just combined.
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and bake for 20-25 minutes until edges are firm but the center is slightly soft.
- Allow to cool before cutting into squares.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 22g
- Sodium: 70mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Keywords: Customize your brownies by adding nuts or chocolate chips. For an extra flavor twist, sprinkle sea salt on top before baking or try different extracts like almond or orange.
