Soft Fudge Brownies

Name: Soft Fudge Brownies
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 16 brownies
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter; 2 cups sugar; 4 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1 cup cocoa powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon baking powder

Highlighted under: Basic Quick Meals Inspiration

I can't resist the temptation of a freshly baked brownie, especially when it's a soft fudge brownie that practically melts in my mouth. The rich chocolate flavor, combined with that gooey texture, makes each bite irresistible. I love making these brownies during weekends when I want to indulge my sweet tooth. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal effort, I can whip up a batch that everyone in my family adores. Trust me, these soft fudge brownies make for the perfect treat to enjoy any time of the day.

Created by

Linnea Porter

Last updated on 2026-02-10T19:07:36.246Z

When I first baked these soft fudge brownies, I was blown away by how simple yet satisfying they were. I experimented with the baking time to achieve that perfectly fudgy center, and it was worth every second. The secret is not to overbake them; they should be slightly underdone when taken out of the oven. This little trick keeps them soft and gooey, which is exactly how I love my brownies.

Each time I bring these brownies to a gathering or serve them at home, they disappear quickly! The combination of melting chocolate and a rich cocoa flavor makes them a hit with everyone. I've even started adding nuts for a bit of crunch, but they're just as delightful without them. You can personalize them however you like, which makes this recipe even more appealing!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Rich chocolate flavor paired with fresh orange zest
Creamy texture that melts in your mouth
Perfect for celebrations or as a sweet indulgence

Mastering the Fudge Texture

Achieving the perfect fudgy texture is crucial for these brownies, and it starts with the butter. When melting butter, make sure to do so over low heat to avoid burning it. This low and slow method allows the butter to meld well with the sugar and creates a smooth consistency that is vital for that melt-in-your-mouth experience. Once melted, be sure to let it cool slightly before adding the eggs to prevent them from scrambling, ensuring a silky batter.

The secret to an ultra-soft brownie lies in underbaking just slightly. When you take your brownies out of the oven, aim for a skewer to come out with a few moist crumbs instead of completely clean. This slight underbaking results in an irresistibly gooey center, while the edges—if baked just right—will be set but still chewy. Keep an eye on them around the 20-minute mark to avoid exceeding the ideal trail.

Ingredient Insights

Each ingredient plays a crucial role in developing the decadent flavor and texture of these brownies. Cocoa powder is a star here; it’s essential for that rich chocolate flavor. Opt for high-quality cocoa for deeper taste nuances. If you’re in a pinch, Dutch-process cocoa can be used but will lead to a slightly different, milder flavor profile. Make sure to sift it with the flour to avoid clumps for a smoother batter.

Sugar not only sweetens but also contributes significantly to the brownie’s tender structure. Granulated sugar works wonders here, but you can swap half with brown sugar to introduce a hint of caramel and moisture. For an even richer taste, consider adding some finely chopped dark chocolate or chocolate chips to the batter. This way, you get bursts of melted chocolate in every bite!

Storage and Serving Suggestions

To keep your brownies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4-5 days. If you prefer a firmer texture, refrigerating them will help, but allow them to come to room temperature before serving for the best flavor. For longer storage, you can freeze brownies in an airtight container or wrapped tightly in plastic wrap for up to three months. Just let them defrost in the fridge overnight before enjoying.

When it comes to serving, these brownies are incredibly versatile. You can enjoy them plain, dust with powdered sugar, or top with whipped cream and fresh berries for an indulgent twist. For a festive touch, drizzle melted chocolate over the top, or serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream to create an impressive dessert. A sprinkle of sea salt can also elevate the chocolate flavor beautifully!

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create these irresistible soft fudge brownies:

Brownie Ingredients

1 cup unsalted butter
2 cups sugar
4 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 cup cocoa powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon baking powder

Be sure to measure your ingredients accurately for the best results!

Instructions

Here's how to make the soft fudge brownies:

Melt the Butter

In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.

Mix Wet Ingredients

Stir in the sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract until well combined.

Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, salt, and baking powder.

Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Gradually stir the dry mixture into the wet ingredients until just combined. Do not overmix.

Bake the Brownies

Pour the brownie batter into a greased 9x13 inch baking pan and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25 minutes. The brownies should be slightly underbaked.

Cool and Slice

Let the brownies cool in the pan before slicing them into squares. Enjoy your fudgy treat!

Allowing the brownies to cool will help them set properly.

Pro Tips

For an extra touch, consider adding chocolate chips or nuts to the batter before baking. This will enhance the texture and flavor of your brownies.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your brownies end up too cakey, this often means that the dry ingredients were overmixed or too much flour was added. To combat this, stir the dry ingredients into the wet just until visible flour patches disappear—this keeps the texture fudgy. Also, remember that the quality of your ingredients plays a big role; stale baking soda or powder can lead to dense results.

Another frequent issue is the brownies sticking to the pan. To prevent this, be sure to grease your baking pan thoroughly with butter or use parchment paper for easy removal. If you find that brownies still stick, a gentle run around the edges with a knife can help release them after cooling. Don’t rush this step; allowing them to cool completely aids in cleaner cuts.

Making Variations

Feel free to get creative with combinations! Introducing nuts like walnuts or pecans can add a delightful crunch to the gooey texture, balancing flavors wonderfully. If you’re feeling adventurous, adding orange zest directly into the batter brightens the chocolate flavor and adds a refreshing hint that elevates the experience. It's a fantastic pairing that I recommend trying out for a zesty twist.

For those looking to make these brownies healthier, you can substitute half of the butter with unsweetened applesauce. This keeps the moisture while reducing fat. Alternatively, using almond flour instead of all-purpose can cater to gluten-free diets, though the texture will be slightly different—aim for a finer grind for better results. Baking times may vary slightly, so keep an eye on them as they bake.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I substitute cocoa powder for chocolate bars?

Yes, if you want a richer flavor, you can use melted chocolate in place of cocoa powder, adjusting the sugar accordingly.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store any unused brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate them.

→ Can I freeze these brownies?

Absolutely! Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They will last up to 3 months.

→ What can I do if my brownies are too dry?

Overbaking can lead to dry brownies. Make sure to check them at the 25-minute mark and remove them when they still look slightly underdone.