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Lawrence D. Smith

Dutch Cocoa Extra Fudgy Brownies

These extra thick fudgy brownies combine Dutch-processed cocoa, melted unsweetened chocolate, butter, oil, and plenty of sugar for tall, rich brownies with a shiny crackly top and dense, soft center.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 16 Brownies
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American

Ingredients
  

Dry Ingredients
  • 1⅓ cups 160g all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup 96g Dutch-processed cocoa powder
Chocolate Mixture
  • 6 oz unsweetened chocolate chopped
  • 1 cup 226g unsalted butter, cubed
  • 1½ cups 297g granulated sugar, from the total 3 cups
Wet Ingredients
  • 4 large eggs
  • 2 egg yolks
  • ⅓ cup 66g vegetable oil
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
Remaining Sugar
  • 1½ cups 297g granulated sugar

Equipment

  • 9×9-inch metal baking pan
  • Parchment paper or non-stick cooking spray
  • Medium mixing bowl
  • Whisk
  • Small saucepan
  • Stand mixer or hand mixer
  • Mixing bowl for the mixer
  • Rubber spatula
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Kitchen scale, if measuring by weight
  • Timer

Method
 

  1. Prepare the Pan: Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C). Prepare a metal 9×9-inch baking pan with non-stick spray or line it with parchment paper. Do not substitute an 8×8-inch pan, as the full recipe will not fit properly.
  2. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, salt, and Dutch-processed cocoa powder until evenly combined.
  3. Melt Chocolate Mixture: Place the chopped unsweetened chocolate, cubed unsalted butter, and 1½ cups of the granulated sugar in a small saucepan over low heat.
    Stir occasionally for about 5 minutes, continuing until the chocolate and butter are fully melted. Some of the sugar will dissolve, but the mixture should still appear grainy.
  4. Beat Sugar Eggs Chocolate: Add the remaining 1½ cups granulated sugar, eggs, egg yolks, and the melted chocolate mixture to a stand mixer or large mixing bowl.
    Beat for a full 3 minutes, until the mixture has doubled in volume. Set a timer and do not shorten this mixing period.
  5. Add Oil Vanilla: Add the vegetable oil and vanilla extract, then continue mixing on low speed until incorporated.
  6. Incorporate Dry Mixture: Gradually add the flour, salt, and cocoa mixture while mixing on low speed. Continue only until the dry ingredients are fully combined. The finished batter will be thick.
  7. Fill the Pan: Transfer the thick brownie batter to the prepared 9×9-inch metal pan and spread it into the pan.
  8. Bake the Brownies: Bake at 350°F (180°C) for 38–45 minutes.
  9. Let the Brownies Set: Remove the brownies from the oven and allow them to set for at least 4 hours before cutting. For the preferred texture, let them set overnight before slicing.

Notes

  • Pan size matters: Use a metal 9×9-inch pan. An 8×8-inch pan is not large enough for the full recipe.
  • Sugar in the chocolate mixture: The melted mixture will remain somewhat grainy because not all of the sugar dissolves. This is expected.
  • Do not shorten the mixing time: Beat the eggs, egg yolks, remaining sugar, and melted chocolate mixture for the full 3 minutes until doubled in volume.
  • Expect thick batter: Once the dry ingredients are incorporated, the brownie batter should be thick.
  • Allow proper setting: Let the brownies set for at least 4 hours before cutting; overnight setting is preferred.
  • Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. Refrigerate for a firmer texture.
  • Make ahead: These brownies can be prepared 1–2 days in advance and kept covered at room temperature or in the refrigerator.
  • Freezing: After the brownies have completely cooled and set, cut them into squares, wrap them tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature or warm slightly before serving.
  • Gluten-free option: Replace the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend.