Alton Brown Brownies Recipe

This ultra-fudgy, rich Alton Brown Brownies Recipe is made with natural cocoa powder, granulated and brown sugar, melted butter, and vanilla extract. The result is a dense, chocolate-packed dessert with a slightly crisp top and a chewy center that every brownie lover will appreciate. It takes about 1 hour and 50 minutes from start to finish and yields 16 brownies. Serve them warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or enjoy with a glass of cold milk.

Alton Brown Brownies Recipe Ingredients

• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup light brown sugar
• 2 cups natural cocoa powder (not Dutch-process)
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
• 4 large eggs
• 2 sticks (16 tablespoons) unsalted butter, melted
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

How To Make Alton Brown Brownies Recipe

1. Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 300°F.
2. Prepare the pan: Grease an 8-inch square baking pan with nonstick spray. Line it with parchment paper, leaving a 2-inch overhang on two sides for easy lifting.
3. Sift dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, sift together both sugars, cocoa powder, flour, and salt.
4. Beat the eggs: Using a stand mixer with a paddle attachment, beat the eggs on medium speed for 2–3 minutes until fluffy and pale yellow.
5. Mix the batter: Lower the mixer speed and gradually add the sugar mixture, followed by the melted butter and vanilla. Mix until smooth—batter will be thick.
6. Fill the pan: Spread the batter evenly into the prepared baking pan.
7. Bake in two stages: Bake for 15 minutes, then cool for 15 minutes. Return to the oven and bake until a thermometer reads 195°F in the center, about 30 more minutes.
8. Cool and cut: Let the brownies cool in the pan for 30 minutes. Transfer to a rack for another 10 minutes before slicing into 16 squares.

Recipe Tips

• Use natural cocoa powder: Avoid Dutch-processed cocoa—natural cocoa gives the right acidity and texture for this recipe.
• Measure with a thermometer: For perfect doneness, bake until the center reaches 195°F.
• Line the pan properly: A parchment paper sling makes it easy to lift the brownies out without damage.
• Don’t overmix: Stir just until smooth to avoid tough brownies.
• Cut cleanly: Use a pizza wheel or long knife for neat, even squares.

What To Serve With Brownies

These brownies are delicious on their own but even better with a few indulgent touches. Serve them with a scoop of vanilla or coffee ice cream, a drizzle of chocolate sauce, or a dollop of whipped cream. For something more sophisticated, try pairing with fresh berries or a glass of red wine.

How To Store Brownies

Room Temperature: Store brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. Place wax paper between layers if stacking.
Freeze: Wrap individual brownies in plastic wrap and freeze in a zip-top bag for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature or warm briefly in the microwave.

Brownies Nutrition Facts

• Calories: 320
• Total Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 11g
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Sugar: 30g
• Protein: 4g
• Sodium: 120mg

FAQs

Can I use Dutch-processed cocoa powder instead?
It’s not recommended—natural cocoa reacts better in this recipe for the desired texture and flavor.

Why bake the brownies in two stages?
This method ensures a dense, fudgy interior while allowing the outer edges to set without drying out.

Do I have to use a thermometer?
For best results, yes. But if you don’t have one, bake until the center looks set and a toothpick comes out with a few moist crumbs.

Can I add nuts or chocolate chips?
Absolutely. Fold in up to 1 cup of chopped walnuts, pecans, or chocolate chips after mixing the batter.

How do I keep the brownies from sticking?
Using parchment with an overhang and greasing the pan thoroughly will make removal easy.

Try More Recipes:

• Alton Brown Waffles Recipe
• Alton Brown Pancakes Recipe
• Alton Brown Biscuits Recipe