Ingredients:

  • 1 cup (120g) all-purpose flour
  • ¾ cup (75g) unsweetened cocoa powder
  • ½ teaspoon baking powder
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • ½ cup (113g) unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
  • ½ cup (100g) packed light brown sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 4 ounces (113g) semi-sweet or dark chocolate, melted and cooled slightly (optional)
  • ½ cup (85g) chocolate chips (semi-sweet, dark, or milk)

Instructions:

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8x8 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on two sides.
  2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.
  3. In a large bowl, combine the melted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar. Whisk until smooth.
  4. Add the eggs one at a time, whisking well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
  5. Melt the chocolate (optional) in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second intervals, stirring until smooth. Let it cool slightly.
  6. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
  7. Gently fold in the melted chocolate (if using) and chocolate chips.
  8. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly.
  9. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with fudgy crumbs.
  10. Let the brownies cool completely in the pan before lifting them out using the parchment paper overhang. Cut into squares and serve.