Soft Fudge Brownies

Name: Soft Fudge Brownies
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 16 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter; 2 cups granulated sugar; 4 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt

Highlighted under: Decadent Desserts

I absolutely love making these Soft Fudge Brownies; they are the perfect blend of chewy and chocolaty goodness. Each bite melts in my mouth, leaving me wanting more. I find joy in the simplicity of this recipe, as it comes together in just a few minutes. The secret is in using high-quality cocoa powder and not overbaking, which helps maintain their fudgy texture. Whether it’s for a gathering or just a sweet treat for myself, these brownies never fail to impress.

Created by

Olivia Hayes

Last updated on 2026-02-15T05:17:35.883Z

When I first tried making Soft Fudge Brownies, I was skeptical about whether they would turn out as rich and fudgy as my favorite bakery version. To my delight, they were a big hit! The key was to mix the batter just enough to combine the ingredients without overworking it, keeping the final texture indulgently soft.

I also discovered that letting them cool completely before cutting is essential. It helps to set the brownies perfectly, giving them those beautiful clean edges. A sprinkle of sea salt on top before baking adds a fantastic contrast to the sweetness, elevating the flavor further.

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Rich chocolate flavor that satisfies any sweet tooth
Fudgy texture that is irresistibly soft
Quick and easy to prepare, with minimal cleanup

Mastering the Fudgy Texture

Achieving the perfect fudgy texture is critical for these brownies. Key to this is the ingredient ratios, particularly the butter-to-flour ratio, which needs to be precise. Too much flour can result in a cake-like brownie, so measure carefully. Additionally, ensuring that you don't overmix the batter after adding the flour and cocoa powder will help retain that desired dense moistness.

Another technique to perfecting the fudginess is to bake until just set. Since ovens can vary, start checking your brownies a few minutes before the recommended 25-minute mark. Look for a slight puff on the top and a shiny finish; they should still appear a bit underbaked for that gooey bite. The residual heat will continue cooking them slightly while they cool.

Ingredient Insights

Using high-quality unsweetened cocoa powder is a cornerstone of this recipe. It not only enhances the overall flavor but also contributes to the rich, dark appearance of your brownies. I recommend looking for cocoa powders that are labeled Dutch-processed, as they bring an even deeper chocolatiness and velvet-like texture. Substituting with regular cocoa powder is possible but may result in a slightly different taste profile.

You can customize the brownie flavor by incorporating different add-ins like chocolate chips or nuts, but adding too many can change the texture. If you want to add chocolate chips, consider reducing the flour by a couple of tablespoons to maintain the soft consistency. For nut lovers, folding in roughly chopped walnuts or pecans can add a lovely crunch without compromising the fudginess.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to create rich and fudgy brownies.

Brownie Ingredients

1 cup unsalted butter
2 cups granulated sugar
4 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1/2 teaspoon salt

These simple ingredients come together to create a delightful treat!

Instructions

Follow these steps to achieve the perfect brownies.

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13 inch baking pan.

Melt Butter and Combine Ingredients

In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Remove from heat and stir in the sugar, eggs, and vanilla until smooth. Mix in the flour, cocoa powder, and salt.

Spread and Bake

Pour the batter into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly. Bake for 25 minutes, but do not overbake. A toothpick inserted should come out with a few moist crumbs.

Cool and Serve

Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan. Once cooled, cut into squares and enjoy!

Serve these delectable brownies with a scoop of ice cream for an extra treat!

Pro Tips

For an extra rich flavor, you can add chocolate chips to the batter before baking. Additionally, consider sprinkling some crushed nuts atop the brownies just before they bake for added texture.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

These brownies can be made ahead of time and stored properly to maintain freshness. Once cooled, wrap them in plastic wrap or place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, you can freeze them by slicing and wrapping each piece individually before placing them in a freezer-safe bag. They can last in the freezer for up to three months.

To thaw frozen brownies, simply leave them at room temperature for about 30 minutes or microwave them for about 10-15 seconds. Just be cautious not to overheat them in the microwave as excessive heat can dry them out. They are also delectable when enjoyed warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your brownies seem overly dry or crumbly, it's likely they were overbaked or too much flour was added. One useful tip is to gently press down on the batter in the pan just before baking; this helps eliminate air bubbles that can lead to a drier texture. Remember, the toothpick test is your best friend—go for a few moist crumbs rather than a clean pick.

Conversely, if your brownies turned out too gooey, this could be a sign that they didn't bake long enough. Consider adjusting your oven temperature, as some ovens can run cooler. Investing in an oven thermometer can help you ensure your oven heats accurately. Keeping an eye on the baking time and visual cues is crucial for preventing this issue.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use dark chocolate instead of cocoa powder?

Yes, you can melt dark chocolate and replace the cocoa powder, but adjust the sugar level as dark chocolate is usually less sweet.

→ How should I store the brownies?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. You can refrigerate them for longer freshness.

→ Can I freeze these brownies?

Absolutely! Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in an airtight container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

→ What can I add for extra flavor?

Try adding a teaspoon of instant coffee granules or a splash of espresso to enhance the chocolate flavor.