Chocolate Frosted Brownies Recipe

Introduction

There’s something undeniably comforting about homemade brownies. I still remember the first time I made them with my family—it was a rainy afternoon, and the smell of melting chocolate filled the kitchen. My siblings and I could hardly wait for them to cool before diving in. These chocolate frosted brownies are a delightful twist on the classic recipe, bringing an extra layer of decadence with rich frosting. They quickly became a favorite in our household, perfect for both celebrations and cozy nights in. The rich, fudgy texture paired with a creamy chocolate frosting makes them simply irresistible, and every bite is a reminder of those joyful baking sessions.

Ingredients

For the Brownies:

• 1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter, diced into 1 Tbsp pieces
• 2 oz. unsweetened chocolate, chopped
• 4 oz. semi-sweet chocolate, chopped
• 3/4 cup (160g) granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup (110g) packed light brown sugar
• 1/2 tsp fine sea salt
• 2 large eggs
• 1 large egg yolk
• 2 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup (73g) all-purpose flour

For the Frosting:

• 1 1/2 cups (190g) powdered sugar
• 3 1/2 Tbsp (20g) unsweetened cocoa powder, sifted
• 1/4 cup (56g) salted butter, softened
• 3 Tbsp (45ml) half and half
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions

Prepare the Baking Dish:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Butter an 8×8-inch baking dish, then line it with two sheets of parchment paper, leaving a 2-inch overhang on all sides. Butter the parchment paper as well.

Melt the Chocolate:

3. In a large microwave-safe mixing bowl, combine the butter, unsweetened chocolate, and semi-sweet chocolate.
4. Heat in the microwave in 20-second intervals, stirring well between each interval, until the mixture is melted and smooth. Allow it to cool slightly.

Mix the Batter:

5. Stir in the granulated sugar, brown sugar, and salt until well combined.
6. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition, then blend in the egg yolk and vanilla extract.
7. Fold in the flour, mixing just until combined.

Bake the Brownies:

8. Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and spread it into an even layer.
9. Bake in the preheated oven for 28-33 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.
10. Remove from the oven and let the brownies cool completely on a wire rack. (Tip: Cover the pan with plastic wrap halfway through cooling to prevent the brownies from drying out.)

Make the Frosting:

11. In a medium mixing bowl, using an electric hand mixer, blend together the powdered sugar, cocoa powder, butter, half and half, and vanilla extract.
12. If the frosting is too thick, add a little more half and half, 1 tsp at a time, until the frosting reaches a slightly fluffy consistency.

Frost the Brownies:

13. Once the brownies have cooled completely, spread the frosting evenly over the top.
14. Use the parchment paper overhang to lift the brownies out of the pan, then cut them into squares.

Store:

15. Store the brownies in an airtight container. These brownies are rich, so they make about 12 servings from this small pan.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 200
• Total Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Cholesterol: 40mg
• Sodium: 70mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 26g
• Dietary Fiber: 1g
• Sugars: 15g
• Protein: 2g

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes (plus cooling time)

How to Serve

• Cut into squares and serve on a dessert platter.
• Pair with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent treat.
• Drizzle with chocolate or caramel sauce for extra flair.
• Garnish with fresh berries or mint leaves for a pop of color.

Additional Tips

1. Use Quality Chocolate: Opt for high-quality chocolate for the best flavor.
2. Don’t Overmix: Be careful not to overmix the brownie batter; mix just until combined to ensure fudgy brownies.
3. Test for Doneness: Insert a toothpick; a few moist crumbs should stick for perfectly fudgy brownies.
4. Let Them Cool: Allow brownies to cool completely before frosting for the best texture.
5. Chill Before Cutting: Chilling the brownies in the fridge for an hour makes cutting easier and cleaner.

Recipe Variations

• Nutty Brownies: Add 1/2 cup of chopped nuts (walnuts, pecans, or almonds) for extra crunch.
• Mint Chocolate: Incorporate 1/2 tsp of peppermint extract into the brownie batter for a minty twist.
• Peanut Butter Swirl: Swirl in some peanut butter before baking for a deliciously nutty flavor.
• Espresso Brownies: Add 1-2 tsp of instant espresso powder to the batter for a mocha flavor.
• Spicy Brownies: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a subtle heat that complements the chocolate.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with whipped cream and a dusting of cocoa powder.
• Accompany with a rich coffee or a glass of cold milk.
• Offer a selection of toppings, such as sprinkles, nuts, or fruits for guests to customize their brownies.

Freezing and Storage

• Freezing: Brownies freeze well! Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then foil, and store in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
• Storage: Keep brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the fridge for up to a week.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use cocoa powder instead of chocolate?

• You can, but the texture and flavor will differ. Use a combination of cocoa powder and extra fat (like butter) to compensate.

1. What can I use instead of eggs?

• You can substitute eggs with flaxseed meal (1 tbsp flaxseed meal + 3 tbsp water = 1 egg) or unsweetened applesauce (1/4 cup per egg).

1. How do I know when my brownies are done?

• When a toothpick inserted comes out with a few moist crumbs, they are done. Avoid dry toothpicks!

1. Can I make these brownies ahead of time?

• Yes, you can make them a day or two ahead. Store them properly to maintain freshness.

1. What’s the best way to cut brownies?

• Use a sharp knife, and wipe it clean between cuts for neat edges.

1. How do I store leftover brownies?

• Store in an airtight container at room temperature or in the fridge for a longer shelf life.

1. Can I make these gluten-free?

• Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.

1. What’s the difference between frosted and unfrosted brownies?

• Frosted brownies add an extra layer of flavor and moisture, making them richer.

1. Can I add different flavors to the frosting?

• Yes! Try adding a splash of almond extract or espresso powder for different flavor profiles.

1. Are these brownies suitable for kids?
   • Absolutely! They’re a kid-friendly dessert, but monitor sugar intake.

Conclusion

These chocolate frosted brownies are a perfect indulgence for any chocolate lover. Their rich, fudgy texture combined with a creamy, decadent frosting makes them an unforgettable treat. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or simply craving something sweet, this recipe is sure to impress. So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to enjoy a delightful batch of brownies that your family and friends will love. Happy baking!

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