If you’re on the lookout for a brownie that dances perfectly between fudgy richness and nutty, caramelized flavor, this Brown Butter Brownies Recipe is exactly what you need. The magic lies in browning the butter, which unlocks deep, toasty notes that elevate these brownies far beyond your regular batch. Once you try these, the warm, velvety texture combined with that irresistible browned butter aroma will quickly make them a go-to treat you’ll want to share with everyone.
Ingredients You’ll Need
All the ingredients in this Brown Butter Brownies Recipe are simple, but each plays a starring role in creating the final masterpiece. From the luscious butter that sets the flavor foundation to the cocoa powder offering rich chocolaty intensity, every element works beautifully together.
- 1 cup unsalted butter: Browning this butter develops a nutty, caramel flavor that transforms the brownies.
- 2 cups granulated sugar: Sweetness that balances the richness and helps create a slightly crisp crust.
- 1 cup Dutch-processed cocoa powder: Adds deep chocolate flavor and a dark, beautiful color.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the chocolate’s complexity and rounds out the flavor.
- 4 large eggs: Provide structure and richness for that perfect fudgy texture.
- 1 cup all-purpose flour: Gives just enough body to keep these brownies tender but not cakey.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and intensifies the chocolate notes.
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips (optional): For extra melty, decadent bites throughout.
How to Make Brown Butter Brownies Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper to ensure your brownies come out cleanly and with perfect edges.
Step 2: Brown the Butter
In a medium saucepan, melt your unsalted butter over medium heat. Keep an eye on it as it foams and then gradually turns a golden brown with a nutty aroma. This step takes about 5 to 6 minutes; don’t rush it! Once browned, remove from heat and let it cool slightly before proceeding.
Step 3: Mix Sugar, Cocoa, and Vanilla
In a large bowl, whisk the granulated sugar, Dutch-processed cocoa powder, and vanilla extract together. Pour in the warm browned butter and stir until fully combined and glossy. This mixture is the flavor powerhouse of the brownies.
Step 4: Add Eggs One at a Time
Beat in the eggs one by one, making sure each is fully incorporated before adding the next. This helps achieve a silky batter that will bake into moist, fudgy brownies.
Step 5: Incorporate Flour and Salt
Gently fold in the all-purpose flour and salt until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; you want to maintain that tender crumb without developing gluten.
Step 6: Fold in Chocolate Chips (Optional)
If you’re using chocolate chips, fold them in now for those extra bursts of melty chocolate goodness. Then spread the batter evenly into your prepared pan, smoothing the top.
Step 7: Bake to Perfection
Bake for about 25 to 28 minutes until the brownies are just set in the middle but still soft and fudgy. A toothpick inserted should come out with a few moist crumbs, not completely dry.
Step 8: Cool Completely Before Slicing
Allow the brownies to cool fully in the pan before cutting — this helps them hold their shape and makes every slice perfectly neat and delicious.
How to Serve Brown Butter Brownies Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle your brownies with flaky sea salt to contrast the sweetness, or dust lightly with powdered sugar for a classic look. For a gourmet touch, add toasted nuts like pecans or walnuts right before serving for extra crunch.
Side Dishes
Brown Butter Brownies Recipe pairs fabulously with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a drizzle of homemade caramel sauce. Fresh berries or a cup of hot coffee also complement the rich, buttery flavors perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
Consider cutting the brownies into smaller bite-sized squares for a party platter or stacking pieces into mini brownie sandwiches filled with marshmallow fluff or Nutella. You can even create a layered dessert by crumbling brownies over whipped cream or pudding cups.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store your leftover brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to four days. This keeps them soft and fudgy. If your kitchen is warm, you can also keep them in the fridge but allow them to come to room temperature before enjoying.
Freezing
Brown Butter Brownies Recipe freezes beautifully. Wrap individual squares tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe bag for up to three months. Thaw at room temperature when ready to eat.
Reheating
For a warm treat, microwave brownies for about 10 to 15 seconds or heat briefly in a low oven. This revives their gooey texture and enhances those lovely browned butter notes.
FAQs
Can I use regular cocoa powder instead of Dutch-processed?
You can substitute regular cocoa powder, but it may result in a slightly more acidic and less smooth flavor. Dutch-processed cocoa gives that deeper, mellow chocolate taste which pairs perfectly with the brown butter.
Why brown the butter instead of just melting it?
Browned butter adds a nutty, caramel-like complexity to the brownies that melted butter alone cannot achieve. It elevates the overall flavor and gives these brownies their signature rich and warm taste.
Can I add nuts or other mix-ins?
Absolutely! Chopped walnuts, pecans, or even dried fruit can be folded into the batter for additional texture and flavor contrast. Chocolate chips are also a wonderful option if you want pockets of melted chocolate.
How do I know when the brownies are done?
The brownies should be just set in the center but still moist. A toothpick inserted should come out with a few moist crumbs attached. Overbaking will lead to drier brownies.
Can this recipe be made gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend, but make sure it’s one that includes xanthan gum or another binder to keep the texture fudgy and cohesive.
Final Thoughts
Once you try this Brown Butter Brownies Recipe, you’ll understand why it quickly becomes a favorite to bake again and again. The combination of deep, rich chocolate with that irresistible browned butter flavor creates brownies that are truly exceptional. Trust me, your friends and family will be asking for this recipe long after the last bite is gone!
Print
Brown Butter Brownies Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Brown Butter Brownies offer a rich, fudgy chocolate experience enhanced by the nutty depth of browned butter. Perfectly moist with a tender crumb, they feature optional chocolate chips for an extra indulgent touch. Easy to prepare and ideal for sharing, these brownies satisfy any chocolate lover’s craving.
Ingredients
Brown Butter Base
- 1 cup unsalted butter
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 cup Dutch-processed cocoa powder
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Additional Ingredients
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 4 large eggs
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat oven and prepare pan: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease or line a suitable baking pan with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Brown the butter: In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter and continue cooking until it turns golden brown and emits a fragrant nutty aroma. Remove from heat and allow it to cool slightly.
- Combine dry ingredients and vanilla: In a mixing bowl, blend together the granulated sugar, Dutch-processed cocoa powder, and vanilla extract. Stir in the cooled browned butter until fully incorporated.
- Add eggs and dry ingredients: Incorporate the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition to create a smooth batter. Gradually fold in the all-purpose flour and salt until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
- Fold in chocolate chips: If using, gently fold the chocolate chips into the batter to distribute evenly.
- Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes or until the brownies are just set but remain fudgy inside.
- Cool and serve: Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan before slicing into 12 servings. This cooling period helps set the texture for the perfect fudgy bite.
Notes
- Use a light hand when folding in flour to maintain a tender texture.
- Brown the butter carefully to prevent burning; it should be golden with a nutty aroma.
- Feel free to add nuts like walnuts or pecans for extra crunch.
- Store brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days.
- For a richer chocolate flavor, consider using high-quality Dutch-processed cocoa powder.
