One Bowl Fudgy Cocoa Brownies: A Deliciously Simple Treat

Have you ever been caught in the midst of a chocolate craving so intense that even a chocolate bar from the cupboard doesn’t do the trick?

Prep Time 10

Cook Time 30

Total Time 40

Calories 165kcal

Ingredients

1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter, melted decadent flavor.
1 cup (200g) granulated sugar enhancing texture.
2 large eggs, room temperature
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
1/2 cup (42g) unsweetened cocoa powder (Dutch-processed for deeper flavor)
1/2 cup (63g) all-purpose flour
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 cup (85g) chocolate chips or chunks (optional, but recommended for extra fudginess)

Instructions

Prepare Your Baking Pan
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang on the sides to create handles for easy removal. This preparation step is crucial for your One Bowl Fudgy Cocoa Brownies – the parchment prevents sticking and allows for clean cutting later. If you don't have parchment paper, aluminum foil works in a pinch, but be sure to grease it well.
Mix Wet Ingredients
In a large microwave-safe bowl, melt the butter in 30-second intervals until completely liquid. This melting method prevents the butter from getting too hot, which could cook the eggs when added. Whisk in the sugar until well combined – about 45 seconds of vigorous whisking will incorporate air for the perfect texture. The mixture should look slightly grainy but uniform.
Add Eggs and Vanilla
Add the eggs one at a time, whisking well after each addition until fully incorporated. The batter should become smoother and slightly lighter in color with each egg. Stir in the vanilla extract. For the richest flavor in your One Bowl Fudgy Cocoa Brownies, use pure vanilla extract rather than imitation – studies show it contains over 300 flavor compounds that artificial versions lack.
Incorporate Dry Ingredients
Sift the cocoa powder directly into the bowl to prevent lumps – this is essential for that velvety texture in One Bowl Fudgy Cocoa Brownies. Add the flour, salt, and baking powder. Gently fold these dry ingredients into the wet mixture using a spatula until just combined. Stop mixing as soon as no dry streaks remain – overmixing activates gluten and can lead to cakey rather than fudgy brownies.
Add Mix-ins
If using chocolate chips or other mix-ins, fold them gently into the batter. For the most even distribution, toss the chips with 1 teaspoon of flour before adding – this prevents them from sinking to the bottom during baking. Reserve a small handful to sprinkle on top for a professional bakery appearance.
Transfer to Baking Pan
Pour the batter into your prepared pan and spread it evenly with a spatula, making sure to reach the corners. For perfectly level One Bowl Fudgy Cocoa Brownies, tap the pan gently on the counter a few times to release any air bubbles. Sprinkle any reserved chocolate chips on top.
Adding Chocolate Chips
Incorporate most of your chocolate chips into the batter, saving a handful to sprinkle on top. This not only adds a lovely texture but also ensures you get those gooey, melty chocolate moments with every bite.
Bake to Perfection
Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes. The perfect fudgy brownie should be set around the edges but still slightly soft in the center. A toothpick inserted 1 inch from the edge should come out with a few moist crumbs – not completely clean (which would indicate overbaking) and not with wet batter (which would indicate underbaking).
Cool and Cut
Allow your One Bowl Fudgy Cocoa Brownies to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. For the cleanest cuts, refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before lifting out using the parchment paper handles. Use a sharp knife, wiping it clean between cuts, and slice with a straight downward motion rather than a sawing motion for professional-looking squares.

Notes

These One Bowl Fudgy Cocoa Brownies contain approximately 20% less fat than traditional brownies made with melted chocolate bars, primarily because cocoa powder naturally contains less fat than chocolate. However, they maintain the rich taste profile due to the concentration of flavor compounds in high-quality cocoa powder.

Nutrition