Introduction

There’s something irresistibly comforting about a plate of fudge brownies topped with rich chocolate frosting. These treats are perfect for any occasion, whether it's a casual family gathering or a celebration with friends. Their deep chocolate flavor and fudgy texture make them a beloved dessert.

Making homemade fudge brownies with chocolate frosting is easier than you might think. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a delicious dessert that rivals anything from a bakery. Plus, the process is incredibly satisfying, as you watch the ingredients transform into a decadent treat.

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter
• 1 cup granulated 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
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter (for frosting)
• 1/4 cup milk
• 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder (for frosting)
• 2 cups powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for frosting)

Directions & Preparation

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease an 8×8 inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
2. In a medium saucepan, melt 1/2 cup of unsalted butter over low heat. Remove from the heat and stir in the granulated sugar, mixing until well combined.
3. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition. Then stir in the vanilla extract.
4. Sift together the cocoa powder, flour, salt, and baking powder in a separate bowl. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
5. Pour the brownie batter into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.
6. While the brownies are baking, prepare the chocolate frosting. In a small saucepan, melt 1/4 cup of butter over low heat. Stir in the cocoa powder and milk until smooth and well combined. Remove from heat.
7. Gradually whisk in the powdered sugar and vanilla extract until the frosting is creamy and smooth. If it’s too thick, you can add a little more milk to reach your desired consistency.
8. Once the brownies are done baking, remove them from the oven and let them cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely before frosting.
9. Spread the chocolate frosting generously over the cooled brownies. Allow the frosting to set slightly before cutting the brownies into squares.

FAQs

What if my brownie batter is too thick?

If the batter seems too thick, you can add a tablespoon of warm water or melted butter to loosen it up slightly.

Can I make this recipe in a larger pan?

Yes, if you're using a larger pan, you should increase the ingredient quantities by about 1.5 times to ensure the brownies remain thick and fudgy.

Why are my brownies crumbly?

Crumbly brownies can result from overbaking. Make sure to check them a few minutes before the minimum baking time.

Can I add nuts or chocolate chips to the brownies?

Absolutely! You can fold in 1/2 cup of chopped nuts or chocolate chips after mixing the batter for added texture.

What can I do if my chocolate frosting is too thin?

If your frosting is too thin, simply add a bit more powdered sugar until you reach the desired thickness.

Is there a way to make these brownies less sweet?

To reduce the sweetness, you can decrease the amount of sugar in the brownie batter by 1/4 cup, and consider using unsweetened cocoa powder for the frosting.

How can I make the frosting more chocolatey?

For a richer chocolate flavor, you can increase the cocoa powder in the frosting to 1/3 cup.

What if my brownies are overcooked?

If your brownies are overcooked, they may become dry. You can serve them warmed with a scoop of ice cream to help mask the dryness.

Conclusion

These fudge brownies with chocolate frosting are sure to be a hit with anyone who tries them. Their rich flavor and soft texture make them the perfect indulgence for any sweet tooth.

Whether enjoyed on their own or served alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream, these brownies are a delightful treat that can bring joy to any occasion. Happy baking!

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Decadent Fudge Brownies with Chocolate Frosting

Fudge Brownies Chocolate Frosting made approachable with clear cues, pantry staples, and flexible swaps.

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter
• 1 cup granulated 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
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter for frosting
• 1/4 cup milk
• 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder for frosting
• 2 cups powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract for frosting

Instructions

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease an 8x8 inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
• In a medium saucepan, melt 1/2 cup of unsalted butter over low heat. Remove from the heat and stir in the granulated sugar, mixing until well combined.
• Add the eggs one at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition. Then stir in the vanilla extract.
• Sift together the cocoa powder, flour, salt, and baking powder in a separate bowl. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
• Pour the brownie batter into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.
• While the brownies are baking, prepare the chocolate frosting. In a small saucepan, melt 1/4 cup of butter over low heat. Stir in the cocoa powder and milk until smooth and well combined. Remove from heat.
• Gradually whisk in the powdered sugar and vanilla extract until the frosting is creamy and smooth. If it’s too thick, you can add a little more milk to reach your desired consistency.
• Once the brownies are done baking, remove them from the oven and let them cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely before frosting.
• Spread the chocolate frosting generously over the cooled brownies. Allow the frosting to set slightly before cutting the brownies into squares.

Notes

Additional serving suggestions: pair with a crisp salad, garlic bread, or roasted seasonal vegetables for balance.

For make-ahead, prep components separately and assemble just before heating to preserve texture.

Taste and adjust with acid (lemon/vinegar) and salt right at the end to wake up flavors.