Name: Easy Dark Chocolate Chunk Brownies Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 12
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 stick unsalted butter; 1 cup sugar; 1 tbsp vanilla extract; 2 large eggs; ¾ cups flour; ½ tsp Baking Soda; ⅔ cups unsweetened cocoa powder; 1 tsp salt; 1 cup dark chocolate chunks

Indulge in the rich and decadent flavor of these easy dark chocolate chunk brownies. Perfect for a quick treat or a special dessert, these brownies combine the deep, intense taste of dark chocolate chunks with the moist, chewy texture that everyone loves.

Photos of Easy Dark Chocolate Chunk Brownies Recipe

You may find that some ingredients like unsalted butter and dark chocolate chunks are not always staples in every kitchen. When heading to the supermarket, make sure to get high-quality dark chocolate chunks for the best results. Also, pure vanilla extract and unsweetened cocoa powder will make a noticeable difference in flavor.

Ingredients For Easy Dark Chocolate Chunk Brownies

unsalted butter: Adds richness and a smooth texture to the brownies.

sugar: Sweetens the brownies and helps to create a chewy texture.

vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor with a sweet, aromatic touch.

eggs: Provide structure and moisture, making the brownies fluffy and moist.

flour: The main dry ingredient that forms the base of the brownies.

baking soda: Helps the brownies rise slightly, resulting in a lighter texture.

unsweetened cocoa powder: Gives the brownies their deep chocolate flavor.

salt: Enhances the flavors and balances the sweetness.

dark chocolate chunks: Adds bursts of intense chocolate flavor and texture throughout the brownies.

One reader, Granger Skidmore says:

These dark chocolate chunk brownies are a dream! The recipe is straightforward, and the result is rich, fudgy brownies with delightful chunks of dark chocolate. Perfect for satisfying any chocolate craving.

Granger Skidmore

Baking Techniques for Perfect Brownies

Yes.

How to melt butter: Melt the butter in a microwave-safe bowl or on the stovetop over low heat until fully liquid. How to whisk: Use a whisk to mix ingredients thoroughly until they are well combined and smooth. How to sift dry ingredients: Use a sifter or fine mesh strainer to aerate and remove lumps from the flour, baking soda, cocoa, and salt. How to coat a muffin tin: Butter the muffin tin thoroughly, then sprinkle cocoa powder to ensure the brownies do not stick. How to scoop batter: Use a spoon or ice cream scoop to evenly distribute the batter into the muffin tin, filling each cup to about ⅔ full.

How To Make Easy Dark Chocolate Chunk Brownies

Enjoy a rich and deep chocolate flavor with these dark chocolate brownies that are easy to make! Bake a batch of these in just under 30 minutes.

Preparation: 5 minutes

Cooking: 20 minutes

Total: 25 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

1stickunsalted butter,melted
1cupsugar
1tbspvanilla extract
2large eggs
¾cupsflour
½tspbaking soda
⅔cupsunsweetened cocoa powder
1tspsalt
1cupdark chocolate chunks

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F.
Butter the bottom and sides of the muffin tin, then sprinkle some cocoa powder to coat.
In a large bowl, add the melted butter and sugar. Whisk well for 1 minute or so until the sugar is dissolved and the butter mixture has cooled.
Add in the vanilla and eggs, then whisk until well combined.
Sift together the flour, baking soda, cocoa, and salt, then add them to the wet mixture.
Whisk until just combined, then add in the chocolate chunks.
Scoop the batter into the muffin tin to ⅔ full.
Bake for 20 to 22 minutes, making sure not to overbake.
Serve warm, and enjoy!

Nutrition

Calories: 277.08kcal
Fat: 15.63g
Saturated Fat: 9.21g
Trans Fat: 0.32g
Monounsaturated Fat: 4.45g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.69g
Carbohydrates: 32.56g
Fiber: 3.63g
Sugar: 20.55g
Protein: 4.05g
Cholesterol: 51.70mg
Sodium: 147.55mg
Calcium: 25.62mg
Potassium: 205.33mg
Iron: 2.72mg
Vitamin A: 78.05µg

Expert Tip for Achieving Fudgy Brownie Texture

To ensure your brownies have a rich and fudgy texture, avoid overmixing the batter once you add the dry ingredients. Overmixing can incorporate too much air, leading to a cakier texture. Instead, gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined. This will help maintain the dense, gooey consistency that makes brownies so irresistible.

Time-Saving Tips for Making easy dark chocolate chunk brownies recipe

Melt butter in microwave: Save time by melting butter in the microwave instead of on the stove.

Use pre-cut parchment paper: Line the muffin tin with pre-cut parchment paper to avoid buttering and dusting with cocoa powder.

Measure dry ingredients in advance: Pre-measure and sift together flour, baking soda, cocoa powder, and salt to streamline the mixing process.

Use an electric mixer: Speed up the mixing by using an electric mixer to combine the butter mixture and eggs.

Preheat oven early: Start preheating the oven before you begin mixing ingredients to save waiting time.

Substitute Ingredients For Easy Dark Chocolate Chunk Brownies Recipe

unsalted butter - Substitute with coconut oil: Coconut oil provides a similar fat content and moisture, adding a subtle coconut flavor.
sugar - Substitute with honey: Honey adds natural sweetness and moisture, though it may slightly alter the texture and flavor.
vanilla extract - Substitute with almond extract: Almond extract offers a different but complementary flavor profile.
eggs - Substitute with flax eggs: Flax eggs (1 tbsp ground flaxseed + 3 tbsp water per egg) provide a similar binding effect for a vegan alternative.
flour - Substitute with almond flour: Almond flour is gluten-free and adds a nutty flavor, though it may change the texture slightly.
baking soda - Substitute with baking powder: Use 3 times the amount of baking powder, as it is less potent and will help with leavening.
unsweetened cocoa powder - Substitute with carob powder: Carob powder is naturally sweet and caffeine-free, providing a similar color and flavor.
salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt offers a similar salty taste with potentially more minerals.
dark chocolate chunks - Substitute with semi-sweet chocolate chips: Semi-sweet chocolate chips provide a similar texture and sweetness level, though they are slightly sweeter.

Creative Ways to Serve Dark Chocolate Chunk Brownies

Serve smaller portion sizes: Create elegant, bite-sized dark chocolate chunk brownies by using a mini muffin tin instead of a regular one. This allows for a refined presentation and ensures each piece is a perfect mouthful.
Use high-quality ingredients: Ensure that the butter, sugar, vanilla extract, eggs, flour, baking soda, unsweetened cocoa powder, salt, and dark chocolate chunks are of the highest quality to enhance the flavor and texture.
Garnish with finesse: Add a touch of elegance by garnishing each brownie with a sprinkle of sea salt flakes or a light dusting of powdered sugar. This adds visual appeal and a subtle contrast in flavor.
Plate with sophistication: Use a sleek, white plate to make the brownies stand out. Arrange them in a neat row or a circular pattern, leaving space between each piece for a clean and modern look.
Add a complementary sauce: Drizzle a small amount of raspberry coulis or caramel sauce around the plate. This not only adds a pop of color but also complements the rich, dark chocolate flavor.
Incorporate texture: Serve the brownies with a side of crème fraîche or a dollop of whipped cream to add a creamy texture contrast. You can also include a few fresh berries for a burst of freshness.
Use elegant utensils: Present the dish with a small, polished dessert fork or spoon. This adds a touch of sophistication and makes the dining experience more refined.
Highlight the chocolate chunks: Ensure that some dark chocolate chunks are visible on the top of each brownie. This not only showcases the key ingredient but also adds a rustic, homemade touch to the presentation.

Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Brownies

Oven: Used to bake the brownies at the specified temperature of 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
Muffin tin: Holds the brownie batter in individual portions for baking.
Butter knife: Used to butter the bottom and sides of the muffin tin.
Sifter: Helps to sift together the flour, baking soda, cocoa, and salt to ensure even distribution and remove lumps.
Large bowl: Used to mix the melted butter, sugar, vanilla, eggs, and dry ingredients.
Whisk: Used to whisk the butter and sugar mixture, and later to combine the wet and dry ingredients.
Measuring cups: Used to measure out the ingredients like sugar, flour, and cocoa powder.
Measuring spoons: Used to measure smaller quantities like vanilla extract, baking soda, and salt.
Spatula: Helps to fold in the dark chocolate chunks into the batter.
Ice cream scoop: Used to scoop the batter into the muffin tin to ensure even portions.
Cooling rack: Allows the brownies to cool evenly after baking.

Storing and Freezing Homemade Brownies

Allow the brownies to cool completely before storing or freezing.
To store, place the cooled brownies in an airtight container or wrap them tightly with plastic wrap. They will keep at room temperature for up to 3-4 days.
For longer storage, you can refrigerate the brownies in an airtight container for up to a week. Let them come to room temperature before serving for the best texture and flavor.
To freeze the brownies:
- Cut them into individual portions and wrap each one tightly with plastic wrap.
- Place the wrapped brownies in a freezer-safe container or freezer bag, removing as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.
- Label the container or bag with the date and contents.
- Freeze for up to 2-3 months.
To thaw frozen brownies, transfer them to the refrigerator and let them defrost overnight. Alternatively, you can thaw them at room temperature for a couple of hours.
For a quick treat, you can even enjoy the brownies straight from the freezer – the chocolate will be slightly firmer, but still delicious!

How To Reheat Leftover Brownies

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover brownies on a baking sheet and cover them loosely with aluminum foil. Heat them in the oven for about 10-15 minutes, or until they're warmed through. This method will help restore the crispy edges and gooey center of your brownies, making them taste almost as good as freshly baked ones.
If you're in a hurry, you can also reheat your brownies in the microwave. Place a single brownie on a microwave-safe plate and heat it on high for about 20-30 seconds. If you're reheating multiple brownies, add an extra 10-15 seconds for each additional brownie. Be careful not to overheat them, as this can make them tough and rubbery.
For a more indulgent treat, try warming up your leftover brownies in a skillet with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top. Melt a small amount of butter in the skillet over medium heat, then add the brownie and cook it for about 1-2 minutes on each side, or until it's heated through and slightly crispy. Serve the warm brownie with a scoop of ice cream and enjoy the perfect combination of warm, gooey chocolate and cool, creamy ice cream.
If you want to get creative with your leftover brownies, try crumbling them up and using them as a topping for your favorite desserts. Sprinkle them over ice cream, yogurt, or even oatmeal for a delicious and indulgent treat. You can also use them as a base for a trifle or parfait, layering them with whipped cream, fruit, and other tasty ingredients.

Interesting Trivia About Dark Chocolate Chunk Brownies

A fun fact about this brownie recipe is that using dark chocolate chunks not only enhances the chocolate flavor but also adds a rich, slightly bitter contrast to the sweetness of the batter. This creates a more complex and satisfying taste experience.

Is Making Brownies at Home Cost-Effective?

This easy dark chocolate chunk brownies recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. With basic pantry staples like flour, sugar, and cocoa powder, the primary expense is the dark chocolate chunks. Given the simplicity and minimal ingredients, the overall verdict would be a solid 8 out of 10. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people would be around $8-$10 USD, making it an affordable yet indulgent dessert.

Are Dark Chocolate Chunk Brownies Healthy or Unhealthy?

This dark chocolate chunk brownie recipe, while delicious, is not particularly healthy. The main ingredients contributing to its unhealthy status are:

High sugar content (1 cup)
Refined flour (¾ cups)
Butter (1 stick)
Dark chocolate chunks (1 cup), which likely contain added sugar

These ingredients are high in calories, saturated fat, and added sugars, which can contribute to obesity, heart disease, and other health issues when consumed in excess.

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following modifications:

Reduce the sugar content by using ½ cup of sugar and substituting the remaining ½ cup with a natural sweetener like applesauce or mashed ripe bananas
Replace the refined flour with whole wheat flour or almond flour for added fiber and nutrients
Use a healthier fat source, such as coconut oil or Greek yogurt, in place of some or all of the butter
Opt for dark chocolate chunks with a high cocoa content (70% or above) and minimal added sugars
Add in some healthy ingredients like chopped nuts, chia seeds, or dried fruits for extra nutrition and flavor

By making these adjustments, you can create a more balanced and nutritious brownie that still satisfies your sweet tooth. Remember, moderation is key, and even healthier versions of treats should be enjoyed in reasonable portions as part of a well-rounded diet.

Editor's Opinion: Why This Brownie Recipe Stands Out

This recipe offers a delightful twist on traditional brownies by using a muffin tin, creating perfectly portioned treats with a rich, dark chocolate flavor. The use of dark chocolate chunks adds a luxurious texture and depth. However, consider reducing the baking soda to ¼ tsp for a denser brownie. Also, try adding a pinch of espresso powder to enhance the chocolate flavor. Overall, it's a simple yet indulgent recipe that promises to satisfy any chocolate craving.

Enhance Your Easy Dark Chocolate Chunk Brownies Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Roasted Beet and Goat Cheese Salad: Elevate your dessert experience with a vibrant Roasted Beet and Goat Cheese Salad. The earthy sweetness of beets pairs beautifully with the creamy tang of goat cheese, creating a delightful contrast to the rich, fudgy brownies. Add some arugula and a drizzle of balsamic glaze for a gourmet touch.

Spiced Chai Latte: Complement the deep, dark flavors of the brownies with a warm, aromatic Spiced Chai Latte. The blend of cinnamon, cardamom, and ginger will enhance the chocolatey goodness, making each bite and sip a cozy, comforting experience.

Citrus and Avocado Salad: Brighten up your dessert table with a refreshing Citrus and Avocado Salad. The zesty oranges and creamy avocado provide a light, refreshing counterpoint to the dense brownies. Toss in some pomegranate seeds for a pop of color and a burst of tartness.

Raspberry Coulis: Drizzle a luscious Raspberry Coulis over your brownies for an elegant touch. The tartness of raspberries cuts through the richness of the chocolate, creating a harmonious balance of flavors. This simple yet sophisticated addition will make your dessert truly unforgettable.

Vanilla Bean Ice Cream: Serve your brownies à la mode with a scoop of Vanilla Bean Ice Cream. The creamy, smooth texture of the ice cream melts into the warm brownies, creating a heavenly combination that will leave your taste buds dancing with joy.

Delicious Brownie Variations to Try

Chocolate Lava Cakes: Imagine a rich, molten dessert that oozes with gooey dark chocolate when you cut into it. These individual cakes are perfect for a romantic dinner or a special treat.

Double Chocolate Chip Cookies: These cookies are a chocolate lover's dream, packed with cocoa powder and chocolate chips. Crispy on the edges and chewy in the center, they're irresistible.

Chocolate Fudge Brownies: For those who crave a denser, fudgier brownie, this recipe is a must-try. Loaded with chocolate and a hint of espresso to enhance the flavor, these brownies are pure indulgence.

Chocolate Chip Muffins: Start your day with these delightful muffins, bursting with chocolate chips. They're moist, fluffy, and perfect for breakfast or a midday snack.

Chocolate Peanut Butter Bars: A no-bake dessert that combines the classic flavors of chocolate and peanut butter. These bars are easy to make and incredibly satisfying.

Appetizers and Entrées That Complement easy dark chocolate chunk brownies recipe

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Stuffed Mushrooms are a delightful way to start any meal. Imagine plump, juicy mushrooms filled with a savory mixture of cream cheese, garlic, and herbs. The creaminess of the filling contrasts beautifully with the earthy flavor of the mushrooms. A sprinkle of Parmesan cheese on top adds a crispy, golden-brown finish. These bite-sized treats are perfect for any gathering, offering a burst of flavor with every bite.

Bruschetta: Bruschetta is a classic Italian starter that never fails to impress. Picture crusty slices of baguette toasted to perfection, topped with a vibrant mix of diced tomatoes, fresh basil, and garlic. A drizzle of extra virgin olive oil and a splash of balsamic vinegar elevate the flavors, making each bite a harmonious blend of crunch and freshness. This simple yet elegant appetizer is sure to be a hit at any dinner party.

Main Courses:

Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken: Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken is a delightful dish that combines the zesty flavors of lemon and fresh herbs with tender, juicy chicken breasts. Marinate the chicken in a mixture of lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, and a blend of fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, and parsley. Grill the chicken to perfection, ensuring a beautiful char and a burst of flavor in every bite. Serve with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal that is both healthy and satisfying.

Spaghetti Carbonara: Spaghetti Carbonara is a classic Italian dish that brings together the rich flavors of pancetta, eggs, and Parmesan cheese. Cook the spaghetti until al dente, then toss it with crispy pancetta and a creamy sauce made from egg yolks and grated Parmesan. The heat from the pasta will cook the eggs, creating a silky, luscious sauce that coats each strand of spaghetti. Finish with a generous sprinkle of black pepper and a handful of fresh parsley for a touch of color and freshness. This dish is perfect for a quick yet indulgent dinner.

Why trust this Easy Dark Chocolate Chunk Brownies Recipe:

This recipe for dark chocolate chunk brownies is a must-try for any dessert lover. With simple ingredients like unsalted butter, sugar, and vanilla extract, it's easy to follow and yields delicious results. The addition of dark chocolate chunks ensures a rich, indulgent flavor in every bite. Plus, baking them in a muffin tin gives you perfectly portioned treats. Trust this recipe for its straightforward instructions and mouthwatering outcome.

Have you tried this Easy Dark Chocolate Chunk Brownies Recipe? Share your experience and discuss any tweaks or variations in the Baking and Desserts forum section.

FAQ:

Can I use regular chocolate chips instead of dark chocolate chunks?

Absolutely! You can swap out the dark chocolate chunks for regular chocolate chips if you prefer. It might make the brownies a bit sweeter, but they'll still be delicious.

Can I make these brownies in a regular baking pan instead of a muffin tin?

Yes, you can use a regular baking pan. Just make sure to adjust the baking time accordingly. Start checking for doneness around the 20-minute mark, but it might take a bit longer.

How do I know when the brownies are done?

You'll know the brownies are done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs but no wet batter. Be careful not to overbake them, as they'll continue to cook a bit after you take them out of the oven.

Can I add nuts or other mix-ins to the batter?

Definitely! Feel free to add nuts, dried fruit, or even a swirl of peanut butter to the batter. Just fold them in gently after you've mixed in the chocolate chunks.

How should I store these brownies?

Store the brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want them to last longer, you can refrigerate them for up to a week or freeze them for up to 3 months.