A Timeless, Extra-Rich Recipe with a Crackly Top & Gooey Center
These old-fashioned brownies are deeply chocolatey, fudgy yet cakey, and made with simple pantry staples—just like Grandma used to make! Perfect for after-school treats, potlucks, or chocolate cravings.
📝 Ingredients (Makes 12-16 brownies)
Dry Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- ½ tsp salt
- ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder (Dutch-process or natural)
Wet Ingredients:
- 3 sticks (1½ cups) unsalted butter, melted
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 cup whole milk (or 2%)
- 2 large eggs, room temperature
- 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
👵 Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prep & Preheat
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a 9×13-inch pan or line with parchment.
2. Make the Chocolate Base
- Melt butter in a saucepan over low heat.
- Whisk in cocoa powder until smooth.
- Stir in sugar and milk until dissolved (mixture will be grainy).
- Remove from heat and cool 5-10 mins.
3. Finish the Batter
- Whisk in eggs and vanilla.
- In a separate bowl, combine flour and salt.
- Fold wet into dry until just combined (don’t overmix!).
4. Bake & Cool
- Spread batter evenly in pan.
- Bake 30-35 mins until a toothpick has a few moist crumbs.
- Cool completely before slicing (patience is key!).
🌟 Grandma’s Pro Tips
🍫 Fudgy vs. Cakey:
- For fudgier brownies: Reduce flour to 1¾ cups.
- For crackly tops: Dissolve sugar fully in warm butter mixture.
🔥 Baking Secrets:
- Room temp eggs prevent batter from seizing.
- Underbake slightly—they firm up while cooling.
✨ Flavor Boosters:
- Add 1 tsp espresso powder to deepen chocolate flavor.
- Stir in 1 cup walnuts or chocolate chips before baking.
❓ FAQs
1. Can I use oil instead of butter?
Yes, but butter adds richer flavor. Substitute 1¼ cups vegetable oil.
2. Why are my brownies dry?
- Overbaked → Check at 30 mins.
- Too much flour → Spoon & level measuring cups.
3. Can I make them gluten-free?
Use GF 1:1 flour blend and ensure cocoa is GF.
4. How to store leftovers?
- Room temp: 3 days (covered).
- Freeze: Up to 3 months (wrap tightly).
5. Can I halve the recipe?
Yes! Use an 8×8-inch pan and bake 25-30 mins.
🍽️ Final Thoughts
These classic cocoa brownies are nostalgia in every bite—simple, comforting, and endlessly customizable. Serve with a glass of cold milk for the full experience!
“Just like Grandma used to make—only better because you made them!” ❤️
Tag your creations #GrandmasBrownies
