Fudgy Brownies with Chocolate Frosting Recipe
These homemade fudgy brownies topped with a rich chocolate frosting are the perfect treat to satisfy your chocolate cravings. They’re moist, delicious, and incredibly easy to prepare. The brownie base is soft, with a subtle cocoa flavor, while the creamy frosting adds a luscious layer of sweetness. Whether it’s for a special occasion or just a weekend treat, this dessert is sure to impress!
Ingredients:
For the Brownies:
- 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 cup melted butter
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs, softly beaten
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
For the Frosting:
- 1/4 cup softened butter
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 3 cups icing sugar (powdered sugar)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Baking Pan:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with foil or parchment paper for easy removal of the brownies. Make sure to grease the foil or paper with nonstick spray to prevent sticking.
2. Make the Brownie Batter:
- In a large bowl, combine the 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder with the melted butter. Stir until fully mixed and smooth.
- Add the sugar, flour, and eggs to the cocoa-butter mixture. Also, stir in the vanilla extract. Mix until the batter is fully combined, but don’t overmix to keep the brownies dense and fudgy.
3. Bake the Brownies:
- Pour the brownie batter into the prepared pan and spread it out evenly.
- Bake for 25 to 30 minutes at 350°F. Check the brownies by inserting a toothpick into the center. If it comes out mostly clean with a few crumbs, they are ready. If there’s wet batter on the toothpick, bake for an additional 5 minutes.
- Once baked, remove the brownies from the oven and allow them to cool in the pan for about 15 minutes. They should be firm enough to handle, but still warm for frosting.
4. Prepare the Frosting:
- While the brownies are cooling, prepare the chocolate frosting. In a bowl, mix together the softened butter, milk, and unsweetened cocoa powder.
- Using an electric mixer, beat everything until smooth and creamy.
- Gradually add the icing sugar and continue to beat until the frosting is thick and spreadable.
- Stir in the vanilla extract to give the frosting a rich flavor.
5. Frost the Brownies:
- Once the brownies have cooled slightly, spread the frosting evenly over the top using a spatula. Make sure to cover every inch for a generous layer of sweetness.
6. Let Set and Serve:
- Allow the frosted brownies to cool completely before slicing them into squares.
- Serve and enjoy the perfect blend of fudgy chocolate and creamy frosting!
Pro Tips:
- For extra flavor, you can add chocolate chips to the brownie batter before baking or top the frosting with crushed nuts or sprinkles.
- Let the brownies cool completely to help them set and make them easier to cut into neat squares.
- These brownies stay fresh for up to 4 days when stored in an airtight container.
FAQs:
Q: Can I use a different kind of cocoa powder for the brownies?
- A: Yes, you can use Dutch-process cocoa powder for a smoother, milder chocolate flavor. However, keep in mind that natural cocoa powder gives a more intense chocolate taste.
Q: Can I freeze these brownies?
- A: Yes, these brownies freeze well! After they’ve cooled completely, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw before serving.
Q: How do I get a thicker frosting?
- A: To thicken the frosting, add more icing sugar, a tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency.
Q: Can I make the frosting in advance?
- A: Yes, you can prepare the frosting ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Just let it come to room temperature before frosting the brownies.
Enjoy these decadent, fudgy brownies with a rich chocolate frosting—perfect for sharing or indulging on your own!