Brownies

Brownies

Brownies are a beloved dessert that brings comfort and joy to many. With their rich, chocolatey flavor and fudgy texture, brownies are perfect for any occasion, from family gatherings to cozy nights in. Whether you enjoy them plain, topped with frosting, or mixed with nuts, there’s a brownie recipe out there for everyone.

Why Make This Recipe

This brownie recipe is not only simple to make, but it allows for creative variations. You can customize your brownies with different ingredients and toppings, making them truly unique. The combination of rich chocolate flavors and optional add-ins like fruits or nuts makes these brownies a crowd-pleaser. Plus, they can be whipped up quickly, perfect for satisfying those sudden sweet cravings!

How to Make Brownies

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup vegetable oil
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tsp lemon extract
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 2 tsp lemon zest
• 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
• 2 large eggs
• 1 egg yolk
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp baking powder
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2 tbsp water
• 1 tsp lemon juice
• 1 to 2 tsp lemon zest (optional garnish)
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1 tsp baking soda
• 1 tsp cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter
• 1/2 cup light brown sugar
• 3 ripe medium bananas
• 3/4 cup buttermilk
• 1 tbsp vanilla
• 3/4 cup chopped walnuts
• 2 1/2 cups powdered sugar
• 1/4 cup half and half cream
• 2 tsp vanilla
• 1 strawberry cake mix
• 1/2 cup salted butter
• 2 large eggs
• 2 tbsp strawberry gelatin
• 8 oz cream cheese
• 1/4 cup salted butter
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 1 to 2 tbsp heavy cream
• 20 Golden Oreos
• 4 tbsp strawberry gelatin
• 4 tbsp salted butter
• 3/4 cup unsalted butter
• 2 cups light brown sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 cup pecans
• 1/2 cup butterscotch chips

Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a baking pan.
2. In a bowl, mix vegetable oil, sugar, lemon extract, vanilla extract, lemon zest, lemon juice, eggs, and egg yolk until smooth.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, salt, and baking powder. Gradually combine with wet ingredients.
4. Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan.
5. Bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
6. Prepare frosting with powdered sugar, water, lemon extract, and lemon juice.
7. Once brownies have cooled, spread frosting over the top and garnish with additional lemon zest if desired.
8. For the banana bread brownies, mix flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt. In another bowl, cream butter and sugars, then add eggs and mashed bananas, followed by buttermilk and vanilla.
9. Combine mixtures and pour into a greased pan.
10. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until set.
11. For strawberry shortcake brownies, blend cake mix, butter, eggs, and gelatin, then pour half of the batter into the pan.
12. Cream together cream cheese, salted butter, powdered sugar, and heavy cream. Spread this over the batter, top with remaining batter, and bake for recommended time.
13. Butterscotch brownies follow similar steps, combining all ingredients and baking until done.
14. Allow all to cool before serving.

How to Serve Brownies

Brownies can be served warm or at room temperature. You can enjoy them plain, dusted with powdered sugar, or topped with a scoop of ice cream. For an extra touch, drizzle some chocolate or caramel sauce over the top.

How to Store Brownies

To keep your brownies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days. You can also refrigerate them for longer storage. For best results, allow them to come to room temperature before serving, or warm them slightly in the microwave.

Tips to Make Brownies

• Make sure not to overmix the batter; fewer air bubbles result in denser brownies.
• Use quality cocoa powder for richer flavor.
• Experiment with mix-ins like nuts, chocolate chips, or dried fruits for variety.
• Allow brownies to cool completely before cutting for cleaner edges.

Variation

Feel free to get creative! You can add flavors like mint extract for mint brownies or make them brownie sundaes with ice cream and toppings.

FAQs

1. Can I freeze brownies?
Yes, you can freeze brownies! Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer bag. They can last for up to three months in the freezer.

2. How can I make gluten-free brownies?
You can replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. The texture may vary slightly, but they should still be delicious.

3. What can I use instead of eggs?
If you need an egg substitute, you can use unsweetened applesauce (1/4 cup per egg), mashed banana, or ground flaxseed mixed with water.

Enjoy making your delicious brownies!