Brownie shortbread
Brownie Shortbread Recipe: Delicious and Easy-to-Make Dessert
Introduction
Brownie shortbread is a delicious and decadent dessert that combines the rich flavors of a brownie with the buttery goodness of shortbread. This recipe is perfect for those who love a sweet treat that is both chewy and crumbly at the same time.
History
The origins of brownie shortbread are not entirely clear, but it is believed to have been created as a way to combine two popular desserts into one irresistible treat. The combination of a fudgy brownie layer on top of a buttery shortbread base creates a unique and indulgent dessert that is sure to satisfy any sweet tooth.
Ingredients
- cake layer
- 0.5 cup unsalted butter, 1 stick, at room temperature
- or
- 0.5 cup margarine, 1 stick, at room temperature
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 0.25 cup granulated sugar
- 0.25 tsp salt
- brownie layer
- 0.5 cup unsalted butter, 1 stick, at room temperature
- or
- 0.5 cup margarine, 1 stick, at room temperature
- 3 squares unsweetened chocolate (1 oz (28 g) each)
- 2 large eggs
- 0.75 cup granulated sugar
- 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 0.5 tsp baking powder
How to prepare
- Cake layer: Preheat the oven to 350°F (177°C). Grease an 11" x 17" baking pan.
- In a food processor or with an electric mixer, process or beat the butter, flour, sugar, and salt until the mixture holds together and forms a dough.
- Press the dough over the bottom of the pan. Bake for 20 minutes or until light golden and firm when touched.
- Brownie layer: Heat the butter and chocolate in a small saucepan over low heat, stirring often, until melted. Cook for 5 minutes.
- In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the eggs, sugar, flour, and baking powder until blended. Whisk in the cooled chocolate mixture.
- Pour the mixture over the shortbread base. Bake for 20 minutes or until the top feels firm.
- Cool in the pan before cutting into bars.
- Food exchanges per serving: 1 starch/bread exchange + 2 fruit exchange + 8 fat exchange; calories: 148; protein: 2g; carbohydrates: 10g; cholesterol with butter: 38g; cholesterol with margarine: 18g; sodium: 94 mg
Variations
- Add chopped nuts or chocolate chips to the brownie layer for added texture and flavor.
- Swirl in a layer of caramel or peanut butter for a fun twist on this classic dessert.
Cooking Tips & Tricks
Make sure to use room temperature butter for both the shortbread and brownie layers to ensure a smooth and even texture.
- Be careful not to overmix the batter for the brownie layer, as this can result in a tough and dense texture.
- Allow the brownie shortbread to cool completely before cutting into bars to ensure clean and neat slices.
Serving Suggestions
Brownie shortbread is delicious on its own, but can also be served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of chocolate sauce for an extra decadent treat.
Cooking Techniques
The key to making perfect brownie shortbread is to bake the layers separately before combining them. This ensures that each layer has the right texture and consistency.
Ingredient Substitutions
You can use either butter or margarine in this recipe, depending on your preference.
- If you don't have unsweetened chocolate, you can substitute with cocoa powder and additional sugar.
Make Ahead Tips
Brownie shortbread can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Presentation Ideas
Cut the brownie shortbread into small squares and arrange them on a platter for a beautiful and elegant presentation.
Pairing Recommendations
Brownie shortbread pairs well with a glass of milk or a cup of coffee for a delicious and satisfying dessert.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Store any leftover brownie shortbread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place in the microwave for a few seconds until warm.
Nutrition Information
Calories per serving
Each serving of brownie shortbread contains approximately 148 calories.
Carbohydrates
Each serving of brownie shortbread contains approximately 10g of carbohydrates.
Fats
Each serving of brownie shortbread contains approximately 8g of fat.
Proteins
Each serving of brownie shortbread contains approximately 2g of protein.
Vitamins and minerals
Brownie shortbread is not a significant source of vitamins and minerals.
Alergens
This recipe contains dairy (butter) and eggs.
Summary
Brownie shortbread is a rich and indulgent dessert that is high in fat and calories. It should be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
Summary
Brownie shortbread is a decadent and indulgent dessert that combines the rich flavors of a brownie with the buttery goodness of shortbread. This recipe is perfect for those who love a sweet treat that is both chewy and crumbly at the same time. Enjoy in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
How did I get this recipe?
The first time I saw this recipe, I was immediately drawn to it. It was a rainy afternoon, and I was flipping through an old cookbook that I had inherited from my own grandmother. As I turned the pages, a picture of the most delicious looking brownie shortbread caught my eye. The rich, chocolatey brownie layer on top of a buttery shortbread base seemed like the ultimate combination of sweet treats.
I knew that I had to try making it myself. The recipe was simple enough, with just a few basic ingredients that I already had in my pantry. I gathered the flour, sugar, butter, cocoa powder, and eggs, and set to work in my cozy kitchen.
As I mixed the ingredients together, I couldn't help but think of all the other recipes I had learned over the years. My grandmother was the one who first sparked my love for cooking. She had a knack for creating delicious meals out of the most humble ingredients, and I had spent countless hours watching her work her magic in the kitchen.
One of my favorite memories was the day she taught me how to make her famous apple pie. The smell of cinnamon and sugar wafted through the air as we peeled and sliced the apples, and I remember feeling so proud when she declared that my pie was just as good as hers.
As I poured the brownie batter over the shortbread base and popped the pan into the oven, I couldn't help but feel a sense of excitement. I knew that this recipe had the potential to become a new favorite in my family, just like my grandmother's apple pie.
When the timer finally went off, I carefully removed the pan from the oven and let it cool on the counter. The brownie shortbread looked even better than I had imagined, with a perfectly crisp shortbread base and a gooey brownie layer on top.
I couldn't resist cutting a piece and taking a bite. The combination of the buttery shortbread and rich chocolate brownie was like a match made in dessert heaven. I knew that this recipe was a keeper, one that I would pass down to future generations just like my grandmother had done for me.
As I sat down to enjoy my creation, I couldn't help but think of all the other recipes I had yet to learn. Cooking was more than just a hobby for me - it was a way to connect with my past, to honor the traditions that had been passed down through generations.
And so, with a full heart and a satisfied stomach, I made a promise to myself to continue exploring new recipes, to continue learning and growing in the kitchen just as my grandmother had done before me. Because to me, there was no greater joy than sharing a delicious meal with the ones you love, and passing on the recipes that hold a special place in your heart.