Ultimate Gooey Brownies

These Ultimate Gooey Brownies are the perfect treat for any occasion! Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, hosting a party, or just craving something sweet, these brownies are sure to impress. With their fudgy texture and rich chocolate flavor, they stand out as a beloved dessert. You’ll enjoy how simple they are to make and even more delight when indulging in their gooey goodness!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Irresistible Flavor – The combination of cocoa powder and semi-sweet chocolate chips creates a deep, rich chocolate taste that will satisfy any sweet tooth.
• Easy Preparation – With just a few simple steps, you can whip up these brownies in no time, making them perfect for busy bakers.
• Versatile Add-ins – Customize your brownies with M&M’s, nuts, or chopped cookies for an extra special touch.
• Perfect Texture – Enjoy the contrast of crispy edges and a soft, gooey center that makes each bite unforgettable.
• Great for Any Occasion – Whether it’s a holiday gathering or a casual get-together, these brownies are sure to be a hit.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this delectable recipe, gather your tools and equipment. Having everything ready will make the process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 8×8 or 9×9-inch baking pan
• Parchment paper
• Non-stick baking spray
• Large mixing bowl
• Medium saucepan
• Whisk
• Spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking Pan – A good quality baking pan ensures even cooking and helps achieve the perfect brownie texture.
• Parchment Paper – Lining the pan with parchment paper helps prevent sticking and makes cleanup easier.
• Whisk – A whisk allows you to thoroughly combine ingredients for a smooth batter without lumps.

Ingredients

These delicious, gooey brownies are made from scratch and soooo good! Fudgy and slightly under baked on the inside, crackly on the tops with crispy edges included and loaded with chocolate flavor! The way Ultimate Gooey Brownies were meant to be! You’ll love how easy they are to prepare and even better when you get to devour these brownies!

For the Brownie Batter

• 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup unsweetened Dutch-processed cocoa powder (like Hershey’s Special Dark)
• 3/4 cup unsalted butter (12 tablespoons)
• 2 tablespoons canola oil (or vegetable oil)
• 1 1/2 cups sugar (divided (1/2 cup, 1 cup))
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 large eggs, plus 1 egg yolk
• 2/3 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips

Optional Add-ins

• 1/2 cup to 1 cup of M&M’s (or nuts or roughly chopped cookies)

How to Make Ultimate Gooey Brownies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees. Line an 8×8 or 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper. Spray lightly with non-stick baking spray and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, sift together the flour, salt, and cocoa powder. Set this mixture aside for later.

Step 3: Melt Butter Mixture

In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the butter, oil, and 1/2 cup of sugar. Stir frequently until the butter melts completely. Remove from heat once melted.

Step 4: Combine Eggs and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, egg yolk, and remaining 1 cup of sugar until well combined. Stir in the vanilla extract.

Step 5: Mix Wet Ingredients

Slowly pour the warm butter mixture into the egg mixture while whisking constantly. This gradual addition helps achieve a smooth consistency.

Step 6: Add Dry Ingredients

Add in your dry ingredient mixture from Step 2. Stir gently with a spatula until just combined; do not overmix.

Step 7: Incorporate Chocolate Chips

Fold in the semi-sweet chocolate chips along with any optional add-ins like M&M’s or chopped nuts using gentle folds.

Step 8: Transfer Batter

Scrape the brownie batter into your prepared pan. Smooth out the top evenly with your spatula.

Step 9: Bake

Bake in your preheated oven for about 30 minutes if using a 9 pan or around 40 minutes for an 8 pan. Your brownies should have firm edges while still being shiny on top.

Step 10: Cool

Once baked, place your brownie pan on a cooling rack. Allow them to cool completely for about two hours before cutting into squares.

Enjoy your Ultimate Gooey Brownies, perfect for sharing—or keeping all to yourself!

How to Serve Ultimate Gooey Brownies

Ultimate Gooey Brownies are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a party or just indulging yourself, here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your brownie experience.

A La Mode

• Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top for a classic combination. The warm brownies melt the ice cream, creating a deliciously gooey dessert.

With Fresh Berries

• Pair your brownies with fresh strawberries or raspberries for a refreshing contrast. The tartness of the berries balances the sweetness perfectly.

Drizzled with Caramel Sauce

• Add a drizzle of warm caramel sauce over your brownies for an extra layer of decadence. This sweet addition enhances the chocolate flavor beautifully.

Topped with Whipped Cream

• Lighten up the richness by adding a dollop of whipped cream. This fluffy topping makes each bite feel indulgent yet airy.

Chocolate Ganache Topping

• For true chocolate lovers, pour warm chocolate ganache over the brownies before serving. This will create an even more luxurious dessert experience.

Gifting Brownies

• Cut the brownies into squares and package them in a decorative box. They make wonderful gifts for friends and family during holidays or special occasions.

How to Perfect Ultimate Gooey Brownies

To achieve the perfect texture and taste in your Ultimate Gooey Brownies, follow these essential tips.

• Use quality chocolate: Opt for high-quality semi-sweet chocolate chips for richer flavor.
• Measure ingredients accurately: Precision is key; use kitchen scales when possible to ensure consistency.
• Do not overmix: Gently fold in dry ingredients to avoid tough brownies.
• Check doneness carefully: Use a toothpick; it should come out with moist crumbs, not clean for that gooey center.
• Cool completely before cutting: Allowing the brownies to cool helps them set properly and makes cutting easier.
• Experiment with add-ins: Customize with nuts, M&M’s, or other candies to suit your taste preferences.

Best Side Dishes for Ultimate Gooey Brownies

Ultimate Gooey Brownies can be paired with several delicious side dishes that complement their rich flavor. Here are some great options:

1. Vanilla Ice Cream: A classic pairing that adds creaminess and balances the richness of the brownies.
2. Chocolate Sauce: Drizzle this over your brownies for an extra chocolatey kick that any chocoholic will love!
3. Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad provides freshness that contrasts nicely with the sweetness of the brownies.
4. Coffee or Espresso: Serve alongside a cup of coffee or espresso to enhance the chocolate flavors and provide an energy boost.
5. Chai Tea: The spices in chai tea make it an excellent companion, offering warmth and complexity against the fudgy texture.
6. Milkshake: Blend up a milkshake for an indulgent drink that pairs perfectly with each bite of brownie.
7. Cheesecake Bites: Mini cheesecake bites add creamy goodness that complements the dense brownie texture beautifully.
8. Nutty Granola Bars: For a healthier option, serve homemade granola bars loaded with nuts to create a satisfying crunch alongside your gooey treats.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Ultimate Gooey Brownies is simple, but avoiding common mistakes can elevate your baking game.

• Skipping the Parchment Paper: Not lining your pan with parchment paper can lead to brownies that stick. Always line it for easy removal.
• Overmixing the Batter: Mixing too much can make your brownies tough. Stir just until combined for that perfect fudgy texture.
• Not Measuring Ingredients Accurately: Using the wrong measurements can ruin your brownies. Use a kitchen scale or measuring cups for precision.
• Ignoring the Cooling Time: Cutting into brownies too soon can lead to a gooey mess. Let them cool completely before slicing for clean edges.
• Baking at the Wrong Temperature: Baking at a temperature that’s too high can dry out your brownies. Stick to 350°F for the best results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• item Store brownies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.
• item Place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.

Freezing Ultimate Gooey Brownies

• item Wrap brownies tightly in plastic wrap and then place in a freezer-safe bag.
• item They can be frozen for up to three months without losing flavor.

Reheating Ultimate Gooey Brownies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F, wrap brownies in foil, and heat for about 10 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat individual pieces on low power for about 10-15 seconds for quick enjoyment.
• Stovetop: Place a brownie in a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm for about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Ultimate Gooey Brownies.

Can I substitute cocoa powder?

Yes, you can use natural cocoa powder instead of Dutch-processed, but it may alter the taste slightly.

How do I know when my brownies are done?

Brownies are done when the edges are firm and the top is shiny and crackly. A toothpick should come out with moist crumbs.

Can I add nuts or other mix-ins?

Absolutely! Feel free to customize with nuts, M&M’s, or even crushed cookies for added texture and flavor.

What makes these brownies gooey?

The combination of butter, eggs, and slightly underbaking creates that rich, gooey texture we love!

Final Thoughts

These Ultimate Gooey Brownies are not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can easily customize them with your favorite mix-ins or toppings. Whether you’re serving them at a party or enjoying them as a personal treat, you’ll love how simple they are to make. So gather your ingredients and try this recipe today!