World's Best Fudgy Brownies (Printer-Friendly)

Rich, fudgy brownies with shiny tops, chewy edges, and deep chocolate flavor for a perfect indulgence.

# What You’ll Need:

→ Fats and Chocolate

01 - 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
02 - 2 tablespoons neutral vegetable oil
03 - 115 grams (about 4 ounces) dark or bittersweet chocolate, chopped

→ Sugars

04 - 1 cup granulated sugar
05 - 1/4 cup powdered sugar

→ Eggs and Flavorings

06 - 2 large whole eggs
07 - 1 large egg yolk
08 - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

→ Dry Ingredients

09 - 1/2 cup Dutch-process cocoa powder
10 - 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
11 - 1 tablespoon cornstarch
12 - 1/4 teaspoon salt
13 - 1/2 teaspoon espresso powder

→ Mix-ins (Optional)

14 - 3/4 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips or chunks
15 - 1/2 cup toasted walnuts or pecans

# Steps to Follow:

01 - Preheat oven to 325°F and line an 8x8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal.
02 - In a microwave-safe bowl, combine melted butter, vegetable oil, and chopped dark chocolate. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring until completely smooth.
03 - Whisk espresso powder and Dutch-process cocoa powder into the melted chocolate mixture to bloom the cocoa and intensify flavor. Allow to cool slightly.
04 - In a separate large bowl, whisk together granulated sugar, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until thick, lighter in color, and glossy, about 3 to 6 minutes depending on method.
05 - Gradually add cooled chocolate mixture to the sugar and egg mixture, stirring until fully incorporated.
06 - Sift flour, cornstarch, and salt over the wet ingredients. Gently fold using a rubber spatula just until combined, avoiding overmixing.
07 - Fold in semi-sweet chocolate chips and toasted nuts if desired, distributing evenly throughout the batter.
08 - Pour batter into prepared pan, smoothing the surface. Bake for 25 minutes, or until edges are set and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs, checking from 23 minutes onwards.
09 - Allow brownies to cool completely in pan. For cleaner slices, chill briefly in the refrigerator and wipe knife between cuts. Serve as is or with ice cream.

# Helpful Hints:

01 - Do not overbake to preserve a fudgy center; the toothpick should come out with moist crumbs.
02 - High-quality chocolate significantly enhances richness and flavor.
03 - Accurate flour measurement by weighing or spoon and level method ensures ideal texture.
04 - Whisking sugar and eggs thoroughly creates the signature glossy, crackly top.