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Fudgy One-Bowl Espresso Brownies

fudgy one-bowl espresso brownies - featured image

These fudgy one-bowl espresso brownies combine rich chocolate with a subtle espresso warmth and a finishing touch of flaky sea salt for a perfect homemade treat that’s easy to make and delicious.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup (100g) brown sugar, packed
  • 2 large eggs, at room temperature
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 3/4 cup (95g) all-purpose flour (can substitute almond flour for gluten-free)
  • 1/3 cup (35g) unsweetened cocoa powder, preferably Dutch-processed
  • 1 tablespoon espresso powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • Flaky sea salt, for sprinkling on top
  • Optional: 1/2 cup (90g) chocolate chips or chunks
  • Optional: 1/4 cup (30g) chopped nuts (walnuts or pecans)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on two sides, or lightly grease it.
  2. Melt the butter in a microwave-safe bowl or on the stove until fully liquefied but not browned. Let cool slightly for 2-3 minutes.
  3. In a mixing bowl, whisk together melted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until combined and glossy, about 1-2 minutes by hand.
  4. Add eggs and vanilla extract one at a time, whisking well after each addition until the batter is thick and slightly elastic.
  5. In a separate small bowl, sift together flour, cocoa powder, espresso powder, and salt.
  6. Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture using a spatula or wooden spoon until no streaks remain. Avoid overmixing.
  7. If using, fold in chocolate chips or nuts now.
  8. Pour batter into prepared pan and smooth the top with a spatula or spoon.
  9. Sprinkle flaky sea salt evenly over the top.
  10. Bake for 22-25 minutes, checking at 20 minutes with a toothpick; it should come out with a few moist crumbs but no wet batter.
  11. Remove from oven and place pan on a cooling rack. Let brownies cool completely before lifting out with parchment paper and slicing.

Notes

Use room-temperature eggs for better mixing. Avoid overmixing to keep brownies fudgy. Check baking time closely to prevent cakey texture. Sprinkle sea salt just before baking for best flavor contrast. For cleaner slices, chill brownies for an hour after cooling. For dairy-free, substitute butter with coconut oil or plant-based butter. Optional add-ins include chocolate chips, nuts, cinnamon, cayenne pepper, or a swirl of peanut butter or salted caramel sauce.

Nutrition

Keywords: brownies, espresso brownies, fudgy brownies, one-bowl brownies, easy brownies, sea salt brownies, chocolate dessert, quick dessert