Name: Ridiculously Easy One-Bowl Brownies
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 4 ounces unsweetened chocolate (I love using Ghirardelli 100% Cacao); 3/4 cup unsalted butter ((1 and 1/2 sticks)); 1 and 3/4 cups sugar; 3 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1 cup chopped pecans ((optional; raw or toasted with a sprinkle of kosher salt))

There’s something magical about brownies, isn’t there? They’re the epitome of comfort food, combining rich chocolate with that perfect fudgy texture. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just craving something sweet, this recipe for Ridiculously Easy One-Bowl Brownies is a game changer. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal mess, these brownies come together effortlessly in one bowl. So grab your favorite unsweetened chocolate—Ghirardelli 100% Cacao is my go-to—and let’s dive into this simple yet indulgent treat!

What Makes This Recipe Special

What sets these Ridiculously Easy One-Bowl Brownies apart from the rest? First, it’s all about that one-bowl wonder. No need for multiple mixing bowls or complicated steps. Secondly, the combination of rich unsweetened chocolate and butter creates an intensely chocolatey base that is simply irresistible. And when you add in the optional toasted pecans, you introduce a delightful crunch that complements the fudgy texture beautifully. These brownies are not just easy; they’re downright heavenly!

Ingredients at a Glance

To make these divine Ridiculously Easy One-Bowl Brownies, you’ll need the following ingredients:

4 ounces unsweetened chocolate (I love using Ghirardelli 100% Cacao)
3/4 cup (1 and 1/2 sticks) unsalted butter
1 and 3/4 cups sugar
3 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 cup chopped pecans (optional; raw or toasted with a sprinkle of kosher salt)

Gear Checklist

Before you start baking, make sure you have the following gear on hand:

Mixing bowl: A large bowl will do for all the mixing.
Whisk or spatula: For easy mixing and combining.
Measuring cups and spoons: Precision is key in baking!
Baking pan: An 8×8 inch pan is perfect for these brownies.
Parchment paper (optional): Makes for easy removal and cleanup.

Cook Ridiculously Easy One-Bowl Brownies Like This

Now that we have everything ready, let’s get to the fun part: baking! Follow these simple steps for Ridiculously Easy One-Bowl Brownies:

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your brownies bake evenly.

Step 2: Melt the Chocolate and Butter

In a large mixing bowl, add the 4 ounces of unsweetened chocolate and 3/4 cup of unsalted butter. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until completely melted and smooth. Alternatively, you can melt them together in a double boiler on the stovetop for a more controlled heat.

Step 3: Mix in the Sugar

Once the chocolate and butter are melted, whisk in 1 and 3/4 cups of sugar until fully combined. The mixture should be glossy and smooth.

Step 4: Add the Eggs and Vanilla

Add in the 3 large eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract until everything is well incorporated.

Step 5: Fold in the Flour

Gently fold in 1 cup of all-purpose flour using a spatula. Be careful not to overmix; you want to keep that fudgy texture!

Step 6: Incorporate the Pecans

If you’re using pecans, fold in 1 cup of chopped pecans at this stage. If you prefer a toasted flavor, toast them in a dry skillet over medium heat for a few minutes before adding.

Step 7: Bake

Pour the brownie batter into a greased or lined 8×8 inch baking pan. Smooth the top with a spatula and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.

Step 8: Cool and Serve

Allow the brownies to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Cut into squares and enjoy your Ridiculously Easy One-Bowl Brownies!

Health-Conscious Tweaks

If you’re looking to make these brownies a bit healthier without sacrificing flavor, consider these options:

Substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for added fiber.
Replace some of the sugar with coconut sugar for a lower glycemic index alternative.
Use unsweetened applesauce as a partial butter replacement for a lower-fat version.
Add in some dark chocolate chips for an extra chocolatey flavor without too much added sugar.

Pro Tips & Notes

Don’t overbake! The brownies should be slightly underbaked for that fudgy texture.
For extra flavor, consider adding a pinch of sea salt on top before baking.
Let the brownies cool completely for cleaner cuts when serving.
Try experimenting with different nuts or even add a swirl of peanut butter for a unique twist.

Keep-It-Fresh Plan

To keep your Ridiculously Easy One-Bowl Brownies fresh:

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep them longer, you can refrigerate them for up to a week or freeze for up to 3 months. Just make sure to wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and foil before freezing.

Helpful Q&A

Can I use cocoa powder instead of unsweetened chocolate?

Yes, you can substitute unsweetened chocolate with cocoa powder, but you’ll need to adjust the fat content. Use 1/3 cup of cocoa powder and reduce the butter to 1/4 cup.

Can I make these brownies without eggs?

Absolutely! You can use flax eggs (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water equals one egg) or unsweetened applesauce (1/4 cup per egg) as a substitute.

What if I don’t have pecans?

No problem! You can use any nuts you like, such as walnuts or almonds, or simply leave them out for classic brownies.

How do I know when my brownies are done?

Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick in the center. If it comes out with a few moist crumbs, they’re perfect. If it’s wet with batter, they need more time.

Healthy-ish Favorites

If you’re looking for more delicious brownie recipes, check out these favorites:

Mint Brownies – A refreshing twist on classic brownies with a minty flavor.
Dulce De Leche Brown Butter Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars – A decadent mix of flavors and textures.

Bring It to the Table

These Ridiculously Easy One-Bowl Brownies are perfect for sharing. Whether it’s a cozy night in, a potluck with friends, or a gathering with family, these brownies will surely impress. Serve them warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or enjoy them as is with a cup of coffee or tea. The best part? You can whip them up in no time, making them an effortless yet delightful addition to any occasion.

Now, it’s time to bake! Gather your ingredients, preheat that oven, and get ready to indulge in the simplest, most delicious brownies you’ll ever make.