These Small Batch Brownies are perfect for satisfying a chocolate craving without making a whole pan of brownies. With a rich, fudgy texture and a perfect balance of sweetness and cocoa, these brownies are easy to make and only require a few simple ingredients. This recipe yields just enough for a small group or for when you’re in the mood for a quick, indulgent treat. No need to bake a full batch when you can make these perfectly sized brownies in less time!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick & Easy: A simple recipe that doesn’t require many ingredients or long preparation.
- Fudgy Texture: These brownies are rich, gooey, and melt-in-your-mouth delicious.
- Small Batch: Perfect for when you don’t need a whole pan of brownies but still want that sweet treat.
- Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite mix-ins like nuts, chocolate chips, or swirls of caramel.
Ingredients
- Butter: Provides a rich base and helps create a soft texture.
- Granulated sugar: Sweetens the brownies and helps create a nice crust.
- Cocoa powder: Gives the brownies a deep chocolate flavor.
- Eggs: Adds structure and moisture to the brownies.
- All-purpose flour: Provides the necessary structure and texture for the brownies.
- Baking powder: Helps the brownies rise slightly.
- Salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the brownies and balances the sweetness.
- Vanilla extract: Adds depth to the flavor of the brownies.
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Pan
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a small baking pan (8×8 or similar size) with butter or non-stick spray, or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
Step 2: Melt the Butter
In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the butter in the microwave in short 20-second intervals, stirring in between. Once melted, set the butter aside to cool slightly.
Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the melted butter, sugar, and vanilla extract. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition, until the mixture is smooth.
Step 4: Add Dry Ingredients
Sift the cocoa powder, flour, baking powder, and salt into the wet ingredients. Stir gently to combine until just incorporated—be careful not to overmix.
Step 5: Bake
Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with just a few moist crumbs (not wet batter).
Step 6: Cool and Serve
Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. Once cool, slice into small squares and enjoy!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Can I make these brownies gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Be sure to check the proportions on your gluten-free flour packaging.
Q2: Can I use a different type of sugar?
You can substitute granulated sugar with brown sugar for a slightly richer flavor, though it will change the texture slightly.
Q3: Can I add mix-ins to these brownies?
Yes, feel free to add chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or even swirls of peanut butter or caramel to the batter before baking.
Q4: Can I make these brownies ahead of time?
Yes, you can bake the brownies ahead of time and store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days.
Q5: Can I freeze these brownies?
Yes, you can freeze the brownies by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll stay fresh for up to 2-3 months. Let them thaw at room temperature before enjoying.
Q6: Can I make these brownies in a different pan size?
If you’re using a different size pan, be sure to adjust the baking time accordingly. A larger pan may require less time, while a smaller pan may require more time.
Q7: How do I know when the brownies are done?
Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center. If it comes out with moist crumbs but not wet batter, your brownies are done. Overbaking can lead to dry brownies.
Q8: Can I add coffee to enhance the chocolate flavor?
Yes, adding a tablespoon of brewed coffee can enhance the chocolate flavor of the brownies. You won’t taste the coffee, but it will deepen the chocolate’s richness.
Q9: Can I make these brownies dairy-free?
To make these brownies dairy-free, substitute the butter with a non-dairy butter or coconut oil, and ensure that the cocoa powder and other ingredients are dairy-free.
Q10: What can I serve these brownies with?
These brownies are delicious on their own, but you can serve them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or a drizzle of chocolate sauce for an extra indulgent treat.
These Small Batch Brownies are the perfect size for satisfying your chocolate cravings without making a whole pan. Easy to make, wonderfully fudgy, and customizable to your tastes, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your dessert rotation!
PrintSmall Batch Brownies Recipe
These Small Batch Brownies are perfect when you’re craving a quick, decadent treat but don’t want to make a whole batch. With only a few ingredients and a small portion, these brownies are rich, fudgy, and so easy to prepare!
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 19-23 minutes
- Total Time: 24-28 minutes
- Yield: 3 brownies 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 1/4 cup (56g) salted butter, cut into 4 pieces
- 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup (36g) all-purpose flour
- 3 Tbsp (18g) unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/4 cup (42g) chocolate chips or 3 Tbsp mini chocolate chips (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). Spray an 8×4-inch bread pan with non-stick cooking spray or grease with butter. Do not use a 9×5-inch loaf pan, as the brownies will be too thin.
- Melt Butter: Place the butter in a microwave-safe bowl, cover, and heat in the microwave until melted (about 30+ seconds). Let the melted butter cool slightly while you measure out the remaining ingredients.
- Mix Ingredients: Stir in the granulated sugar with the melted butter until well combined. Add the egg and vanilla extract, mixing until smooth. Add the flour and cocoa powder, and mix just until combined. Be careful not to over-mix to avoid cakey brownies. If using chocolate chips, fold them in just as the dry ingredients are almost fully incorporated.
- Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared bread pan and spread it out evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 19-23 minutes, or until the brownies are set and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the brownies to cool in the pan for about 15-20 minutes before cutting into three pieces and serving.
Notes
- Pan Size: Use an 8×4-inch bread pan to keep the brownies thick and fudgy. A 9×5-inch loaf pan will result in thinner brownies.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- Texture Tip: For extra fudgy brownies, be careful not to overmix the batter or overbake the brownies.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 brownie
- Calories: 230kcal
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 140mg
- Fat: 13g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 26g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 45mg