A Little History
Brownies originated in the United States in the late 19th century. The first published recipe appeared in the 1890s, and they quickly became a favorite because they combined the richness of cake with the chewiness of a cookie. Adding frosting came later, turning the humble brownie into a decadent dessert that could rival any cake.
Ingredients
For the Brownies:
- 1 cup (230 g) unsalted butter, melted
- 2 cups (400 g) granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup (125 g) all-purpose flour
- 1 cup (100 g) unsweetened cocoa powder
- ½ tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp salt
For the Frosting:
- ½ cup (115 g) unsalted butter, softened
- ¼ cup (25 g) unsweetened cocoa powder
- 3 cups (360 g) powdered sugar
- ¼ cup (60 ml) milk (plus more if needed)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
Step 1: Make the Brownie Base
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a 9×13 inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together melted butter and sugar until combined.
- Add eggs and vanilla, whisking until smooth and slightly thick.
- In another bowl, sift together flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.
- Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until no streaks remain. Do not overmix — you want fudgy brownies!
- Spread batter evenly into the prepared pan.
- Bake for 25–30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with moist crumbs (not wet batter).
- Allow brownies to cool completely before frosting.
Step 2: Prepare the Chocolate Frosting
- In a medium bowl, beat butter until creamy.
- Add cocoa powder and mix until smooth.
- Gradually add powdered sugar, alternating with milk, beating until light and fluffy.
- Mix in vanilla extract. If the frosting is too thick, add a splash more milk.
Step 3: Frost and Cut
- Spread the frosting evenly over the cooled brownies.
- Cut into squares and serve.
Methods & Tips
- For extra fudgy brownies, underbake slightly (take them out when the edges are firm but the center is soft).
- For cakey brownies, bake a few minutes longer.
- Add-ins: Fold in chocolate chips, nuts, or swirls of caramel before baking.
- Use high-quality cocoa powder for the richest flavor.
Benefits
- Mood booster: Chocolate contains serotonin-boosting compounds that can lift your spirits.
- Energy source: With sugar and carbs, these brownies give a quick energy boost.
- Perfect for gatherings: Easy to make in large batches for birthdays, parties, or potlucks.
- Customizable: Can be adapted with peanut butter, mint, caramel, or Nutella frosting.
Conclusion
These chocolate frosted brownies strike the perfect balance between rich, fudgy chocolate and creamy, smooth frosting. Whether for a family gathering, a bake sale, or simply to treat yourself, this recipe guarantees smiles with every bite.