Ingredients
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour, plus more for baking dish
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 3/4 – 1 cup chopped toasted nuts (walnuts or pecans), optional
- 2 ounces unsweetened chocolate, coarsely chopped
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) butter, sliced into 6 to 8 pieces, plus more for baking dish
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- Powdered (confectioners) sugar, for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 325 degrees. Lightly butter an 8-inch square baking dish, then line with two pieces of parchment paper that have been cut to fit the pan crosswise. Flour the pan.
- In a small mixing bowl, stir together the flour, salt, and nuts (if using). Set aside.
- Melt the chocolate and butter in the top of a double boiler over simmering water just until melted. Alternatively, place chocolate and butter in a large microwave-safe bowl and melt in the microwave.
- Remove from heat and stir in the sugar. Set aside and let cool for 3 to 4 minutes (so you don’t cook the eggs). Stir in vanilla and eggs until well blended. Finally, stir in the flour and nut mixture just until combined.
- Pour batter evenly into the prepared pan and bake for about 35 to 40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Remove from oven and let brownies cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.
- To serve, pull up the parchment paper and gently remove the brownies from the pan. Remove the paper and place brownies on a cutting board. Sift powdered sugar over the top. Cut with a sharp knife, and wipe the knife clean with a damp paper towel between cuts. Can also refrigerate brownies for at least 30 minutes to make cutting easier.
Notes
Make ahead: Brownies can be baked, cooled, covered, and refrigerated for up to 1 week. They can also be well-wrapped and frozen for up to 3 months.
High altitude adjustments: Below 7500 feet, no changes are needed. Above that level, increase oven temperature to 375 degrees and reduce cook time to 22 to 25 minutes.
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Bake
- Cuisine: American