Rich Chocolate Brownies
Rich Chocolate Brownies Recipe from USA with Baking Chocolate and Walnuts
Introduction
Rich Chocolate Brownies are a classic dessert that is loved by many for their decadent and fudgy texture. These brownies are perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth and are great for any occasion.
History
The origins of the brownie are a bit murky, but it is believed that they were first created in the United States in the late 19th century. The first known published recipe for brownies appeared in the 1897 Sears, Roebuck Catalogue. Since then, brownies have become a beloved dessert all around the world.
Ingredients
- 4 oz (110 g) of unsweetened baking chocolate
- 0.67 cup (160 g/1.6 dcl) of solid fat: margarine, butter, shortening, or lard
- 2 cups (450 g/2.7 dcl) of baking sugar
- 4 eggs
- 1 tsp of vanilla
- 1.25 cups (300 g/3 dcl) of flour
- 1 tsp of baking powder
- 1 tsp of salt
- 1 cup (240 g/2.4 dcl) of coarsely chopped nuts (0.5 inch / 1 cm walnuts work well)
How to prepare
- Preheat the oven to 350°F/175°C.
- In a double boiler or a saucepan on low heat, melt the chocolate and margarine together, stirring often.
- Remove from heat.
- Add the sugar, eggs, and vanilla to the melted mixture.
- In a separate bowl, combine the dry ingredients (excluding the nuts) and then add them to the wet mixture.
- Stir in the nuts.
- Spread the batter into a 13 inches by 9 inches baking pan, or divide it between two 8 inches by 8 inches baking pans.
- Bake for 30 minutes, or until the brownies start to pull away from the sides of the pan.
Variations
- Add chocolate chips or chunks for extra chocolatey goodness.
- Swirl in a ribbon of caramel or peanut butter for a fun twist.
- Top with a sprinkle of sea salt for a sweet and salty flavor combination.
Notes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Serves: 8-10
- This works well with 3 tbsp of oil in place of the solid fat. When using lard, 0.33 cup should be about right.
- Unlike other brownie recipes which use cocoa powder and fill one small pan, this recipe uses baking chocolate and fills two small pans or one large one.
Cooking Tips & Tricks
Be sure not to overmix the batter, as this can result in tough brownies.
- Use high-quality chocolate for the best flavor.
- Let the brownies cool completely before cutting them to ensure clean slices.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Rich Chocolate Brownies warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert.
Cooking Techniques
Use a double boiler to melt the chocolate and lard to prevent burning.
- Be sure to properly grease the baking pan to prevent sticking.
Ingredient Substitutions
You can use butter instead of lard for a slightly different flavor.
- If you don't have walnuts, you can use pecans or almonds instead.
Make Ahead Tips
You can make the batter for Rich Chocolate Brownies ahead of time and refrigerate it until ready to bake.
Presentation Ideas
Cut the brownies into squares and dust with powdered sugar for a simple and elegant presentation.
Pairing Recommendations
Rich Chocolate Brownies pair well with a glass of cold milk or a hot cup of coffee.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Store leftover brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave for a few seconds until warm.
Nutrition Information
Calories per serving
Each serving of Rich Chocolate Brownies contains approximately 300 calories.
Carbohydrates
Each serving of Rich Chocolate Brownies contains approximately 30 grams of carbohydrates.
Fats
Each serving of Rich Chocolate Brownies contains approximately 20 grams of fat.
Proteins
Each serving of Rich Chocolate Brownies contains approximately 5 grams of protein.
Vitamins and minerals
Rich Chocolate Brownies are not a significant source of vitamins and minerals.
Alergens
Rich Chocolate Brownies contain nuts and eggs.
Summary
Rich Chocolate Brownies are a delicious treat that is high in carbohydrates and fats, with a moderate amount of protein. They are not a significant source of vitamins and minerals.
Summary
Rich Chocolate Brownies are a classic dessert that is loved for their rich and fudgy texture. With a few simple ingredients and easy preparation, you can enjoy these delicious brownies anytime.
How did I get this recipe?
I distinctly remember the moment I stumbled upon this recipe for Rich Chocolate Brownies. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my dear friend Clara in her cozy kitchen. Clara was known for her delicious baked goodies, and that day, she was preparing a batch of her famous brownies.
As I watched her effortlessly mix the ingredients together and pour the batter into the pan, I couldn't help but be intrigued by her method. Clara noticed my curiosity and invited me to help her with the baking process. She explained each step carefully, from melting the chocolate to folding in the flour and eggs.
As the brownies baked in the oven, the kitchen filled with the irresistible aroma of chocolate. I eagerly waited for them to cool before taking my first bite. The rich, fudgy texture and intense chocolate flavor completely won me over. I knew right then and there that I needed to learn how to make these brownies myself.
Clara graciously shared her recipe with me, along with a few tips and tricks she had picked up over the years. She told me that the key to the brownies' richness was using high-quality chocolate and butter. She also advised me to not overmix the batter, as it could result in a tough texture.
Armed with Clara's recipe and guidance, I returned home and set to work in my own kitchen. I carefully measured out the ingredients, following Clara's instructions to the letter. As the brownies baked, I anxiously watched through the oven door, hoping that they would turn out as delicious as Clara's.
When the timer finally beeped, I eagerly pulled the pan out of the oven and let the brownies cool. I couldn't resist cutting into them while they were still warm, and the first bite brought back memories of Clara's kitchen. The rich, gooey center and slightly crispy edges were just as I remembered.
From that day on, Clara's Rich Chocolate Brownies became a staple in my baking repertoire. I made them for family gatherings, potlucks, and any occasion that called for a sweet treat. Each time I shared the brownies with others, they were met with rave reviews and requests for the recipe.
Over the years, I have made a few tweaks to Clara's original recipe, adding a pinch of salt to enhance the chocolate flavor and experimenting with different types of chocolate for a more decadent touch. But the heart of the recipe remains the same, a testament to Clara's expertise and my love for baking.
Now, as I pass on the recipe to my grandchildren, I hope that they will enjoy making these brownies as much as I have. I encourage them to experiment and make the recipe their own, adding their own unique twist to this timeless classic. After all, the joy of baking is in the process of creation and sharing with others.
As I watch my grandchildren lick the chocolate off their fingers and ask for seconds, I can't help but smile. Clara's Rich Chocolate Brownies have brought us together in the kitchen, creating memories that will last a lifetime. And for that, I am eternally grateful.