Chewy Fudgy Frosted Brownies

Here’s a recipe for Chewy Fudgy Frosted Brownies that’s sure to satisfy your chocolate cravings!

Ingredients:

For the brownies:

• 1 cup unsalted butter (2 sticks), melted
• 1 1/4 cups granulated sugar
• 3/4 cup packed brown sugar
• 4 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips (optional for extra fudgy texture)

For the frosting:

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter (1 stick), softened
• 1/4 cup heavy cream
• 3 cups powdered sugar
• 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

Instructions:

For the brownies:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper or foil, leaving an overhang for easy removal.
2. Mix the wet ingredients:
   • In a large bowl, whisk together the melted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until smooth.
   • Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
3. Add the dry ingredients:
   • In another bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, salt, and baking powder.
   • Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture using a spatula, being careful not to overmix.
   • If you’re adding chocolate chips, fold them in at this stage.
4. Bake the brownies:
   • Pour the brownie batter into the prepared pan and spread it evenly.
   • Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with only a few moist crumbs (not wet batter).
   • Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan before frosting.

For the frosting:

1. Make the frosting:
   • In a medium bowl, beat together the softened butter and heavy cream until smooth and creamy.
   • Gradually add the powdered sugar and cocoa powder, beating until the frosting is thick and smooth. If needed, add more cream to reach your desired consistency.
   • Stir in the vanilla extract and salt.
2. Frost the brownies:
   • Once the brownies have cooled, spread the frosting evenly over the top using a spatula.
3. Serve:
   • Allow the frosting to set for a few minutes before cutting the brownies into squares.

Tips:

• For an extra indulgent treat, add a drizzle of caramel or top with crushed nuts like pecans or walnuts before serving.
• These brownies taste even better the next day as the flavors meld, so don’t be afraid to make them ahead!