Homemade Fudge Brownies
Ingredients:
1/2 cup (1 stick) butter
1 cup sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 cup mini chocolate chips (optional)
1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
Frosting (optional):
1/4 cup butter
2 tablespoons cocoa powder
2 tablespoons milk
1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8x8-inch square baking pan or line it with parchment paper.
Melt the butter in a medium saucepan. Remove from heat, then stir in the sugar, eggs, and vanilla.
Mix in dry ingredients: Add cocoa powder, flour, salt, and baking powder. Stir until fully combined.
Optional Add-ins: Fold in the mini chocolate chips and chopped walnuts if desired.
Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread it evenly. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.
Cool: Let the brownies cool completely in the pan.
Frosting (Optional): In a small saucepan, melt butter. Stir in cocoa powder and milk, and bring to a boil. Remove from heat and whisk in powdered sugar and vanilla until smooth. Spread the frosting over the cooled brownies.
