Gourmet Fudgy Brownies

These rich and fudgy brownies are made with high-quality chocolate and extra cocoa powder for an intense chocolate flavour. They're perfect for true chocolate lovers with a luxurious texture and deep chocolate taste. Optional brewed coffee enhances the flavour without overpowering the brownies, making them a decadent treat for any occasion.

Yields and Times:

• Yield: 16 brownies

• Prep time: 15 minutes

• Bake time: 22-28 minutes

• Total time: 40-45 minutes

Ingredients

• 3/4 cup (170g) high-quality unsalted butter

• 1 1/2 cups (300g) granulated sugar

• 3 large eggs at room temperature

• 1 1/2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract

• 3/4 cup (75g) Dutch-process cocoa powder (for a richer chocolate flavour)

• 1/2 cup (65g) all-purpose flour

• 1/4 teaspoon salt

• 4 oz (115g) dark chocolate (70% cacao), melted and slightly cooled

• 1 tablespoon strong brewed coffee (optional for enhanced chocolate flavour)

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease or line an 8x8-inch baking pan with parchment paper.

2. Melt the Butter and Chocolate: Melt the butter in a medium saucepan over low heat. Once melted, remove from heat and stir in the chopped dark chocolate until fully melted and smooth. Let it cool slightly.

3. Mix Wet Ingredients: Whisk the sugar into the butter and chocolate mixture. Add the eggs, one at a time, whisking well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract and optional brewed coffee.

4. Add Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the cocoa powder, flour, and salt. Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the brownies tender.

5. Pour into Pan: Spread the brownie batter evenly into the prepared baking pan.

6. Bake: Bake for 22-28 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with moist crumbs (not fully clean to keep them fudgy). Do not overbake.

7. Cool and Serve: Let the brownies cool completely in the pan before cutting them into squares.

Tips:

• High-quality chocolate: The melted chocolate portion should contain 70% dark chocolate, which provides a deep, intense flavour.

• Brewed coffee (optional): While not necessary, adding 1 tablespoon of brewed coffee will still deepen the chocolate flavour without overpowering the brownies with a coffee taste.

• Texture: For a fudgier brownie, underbake slightly so the center remains gooey.

These indulgent brownies are perfect for anyone who loves rich, chocolatey treats!