Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 large egg
- 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup chocolate chips (optional)
- 1/4 cup chopped nuts (optional)
Instructions:
Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Grease a small baking dish or line it with parchment paper.
An 8×8-inch dish works well for a small batch.
Melt Butter:
In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the butter.
You can also do this on the stovetop over low heat.
Once melted, let it cool slightly.
Mix Dry Ingredients:
In a separate bowl, whisk together the sugar, cocoa powder, and salt until well combined.
Combine Wet Ingredients:
Add the melted butter to the sugar-cocoa mixture and stir until smooth.
Add the vanilla extract and egg, mixing well.
Add Flour:
Gently fold in the all-purpose flour until just combined.
Be careful not to overmix; you want a fudgy texture.
Add Mix-ins (Optional):
If desired, fold in chocolate chips and chopped nuts to add extra texture and flavor.
Transfer to Baking Dish:
Pour the brownie batter into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly.
Bake:
Bake in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.
Keep in mind that baking time may vary based on your oven, so start checking around 15 minutes.
Cool:
Allow the brownies to cool in the baking dish for about 10 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely before cutting.
Slice and Enjoy:
Once cooled, cut the brownies into squares and savor the deliciousness!
This small batch brownies recipe is perfect for satisfying your chocolate cravings without making too many treats. Enjoy!