Introduction
Sometimes, you just want to indulge in a rich, fudgy brownie without the commitment of making a full batch. That’s where these Small Batch Brownies come in! This recipe yields a perfect, petite portion of gooey, chocolate-laden brownies that will satisfy your sweet tooth without leaving you with a ton of leftovers. Get ready to dive into a world of chocolatey bliss!
Ingredients
- 1/4 cup (60g) unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
- 1/3 cup (30g) unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup (30g) all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup (45g) semisweet chocolate chips
Preparation Steps
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×5 inch loaf pan with parchment paper, allowing the excess to hang over the sides for easy removal.
- In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the butter in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval, until completely melted.
- Add the granulated sugar, unsweetened cocoa powder, and salt to the melted butter. Whisk until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Add the vanilla extract and egg to the bowl, and whisk until the egg is fully incorporated and the mixture is smooth and glossy.
- Gently fold in the all-purpose flour using a spatula, stirring just until no streaks of flour remain. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in tough brownies.
- Fold in the semisweet chocolate chips, reserving a few to sprinkle on top if desired.
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle the reserved chocolate chips on top, if using.
- Bake the brownies for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs attached. Be careful not to overbake, as this can lead to dry brownies.
- Allow the brownies to cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes before using the overhanging parchment paper to lift them out of the pan. Place on a wire rack to cool completely before slicing into 4-6 squares.
Flavor Profile
These Small Batch Brownies are the epitome of chocolate indulgence. The combination of melted butter, granulated sugar, and unsweetened cocoa powder creates a rich, fudgy base that’s enhanced by the addition of vanilla extract and semisweet chocolate chips. The brownies have a slightly crisp, crackly top that gives way to a gooey, melt-in-your-mouth center.
The flavor is intense and unapologetically chocolatey, with a perfect balance of sweetness and a subtle hint of salt that heightens the overall taste experience. Each bite is a heavenly combination of textures – the soft, fudgy center dotted with melty pockets of chocolate chips, all encased in a delicate, crisp exterior.
Serving Suggestions
These Small Batch Brownies are perfect for enjoying in a variety of ways:
- Served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream and a drizzle of hot fudge sauce for an indulgent dessert
- Paired with a tall glass of cold milk for a classic, comforting treat
- Topped with a dollop of freshly whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa powder for an elegant presentation
- Crumbled over ice cream or yogurt for a delightful texture contrast
- Enjoyed on their own, straight from the pan, for a simple, yet satisfying chocolate fix
Variations
- Nutty: Fold 1/4 cup of chopped walnuts, pecans, or hazelnuts into the batter along with the chocolate chips for added crunch and flavor.
- Espresso: Add 1 tsp of instant espresso powder to the batter for a rich, mocha-inspired twist.
- Peanut Butter: Swirl 2 tbsp of creamy peanut butter into the batter before baking for a delicious chocolate-peanut butter combination.
- Mint Chocolate: Add 1/4 tsp of peppermint extract to the batter and sprinkle the top with chopped Andes mints before baking for a refreshing, minty twist.
Conclusion
Small Batch Brownies are the perfect solution for those moments when you’re craving a decadent, chocolatey treat without the temptation of leftovers. This easy-to-make recipe yields a petite portion of gooey, fudgy brownies that are bursting with rich chocolate flavor and studded with melty pockets of semisweet chocolate chips.
With minimal ingredients and a simple preparation method, these brownies are an ideal choice for novice bakers or those looking for a quick, indulgent dessert. Plus, the recipe’s versatility allows you to customize it to your liking, whether you prefer a nutty crunch, a hint of espresso, or a refreshing mint twist.
So, the next time you find yourself yearning for a chocolate fix, whip up a batch of these Small Batch Brownies. Indulge in the rich, fudgy goodness, and savor every last crumb. After all, sometimes the best things come in small packages!
