The Best Homemade Brownie Mix
When it comes to satisfying that sweet tooth, nothing beats a rich, fudgy brownie. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just indulging yourself on a cozy weekend, having a homemade brownie mix on hand can save you time and effort in the kitchen. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a delicious brownie mix that will have your friends and family begging for seconds. Let’s dive into the details of making The Best Homemade Brownie Mix!
What Sets This Recipe Apart
This brownie mix is not just any ordinary mix; it’s a combination of the finest ingredients that yield the ultimate chocolatey goodness. The balance of granulated sugar and cocoa powder creates a perfect sweetness and depth of flavor, while the addition of flour ensures the brownies maintain a delightful texture. You can also customize the mix with your favorite add-ins, making it versatile for any occasion.
The Essentials
To whip up The Best Homemade Brownie Mix, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 2 cups (400g) granulated sugar: This adds sweetness and moisture to the brownies.
- 1 cup (80g) unsweetened cocoa powder: The star ingredient, providing that rich chocolate flavor.
- 1 cup (124g) all-purpose flour: Essential for structure and texture.
- Salt: A pinch of salt enhances the sweetness and balances the flavors.
- Melted unsalted butter, vegetable oil, or liquid coconut oil: This will add richness and moisture to the brownies.
- Large eggs: Eggs add structure and help bind the ingredients together.
- Water: To help combine the dry ingredients, adjusting for pan size.
- Vanilla extract: A must for that warm, inviting aroma.
Prep & Cook Tools
Before you start baking, gather the following tools:
- Mixing Bowls: To combine the dry ingredients and mix the wet ingredients.
- Whisk or Spoon: For mixing until smooth.
- Baking Pan: Choose the size depending on how thick you want your brownies.
- Parchment Paper: Optional, but helps with easy removal of brownies from the pan.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: For accurate ingredient measurement.
The Best Homemade Brownie Mix Made Stepwise
Step 1: Combine the Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar, unsweetened cocoa powder, all-purpose flour, and salt. Ensure there are no clumps to achieve a smooth brownie mix.
Step 2: Prepare the Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, melt your choice of unsalted butter, vegetable oil, or liquid coconut oil. Allow it to cool slightly before adding in the large eggs, water, and vanilla extract. Whisk these ingredients together until well combined.
Step 3: Mix Together
Pour the wet ingredients into the bowl of dry ingredients. Stir until just combined, being careful not to overmix. If you like, you can fold in chocolate chips or nuts at this stage for added texture.
Step 4: Prepare the Baking Pan
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line your baking pan with parchment paper or grease it lightly to prevent sticking.
Step 5: Bake
Pour the brownie batter into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.
Step 6: Cool and Serve
Remove the brownies from the oven and let them cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Lift them out using the parchment paper, if used, and allow them to cool completely on a wire rack before cutting into squares.
How to Make It Lighter
If you want to lighten up your brownie mix, consider these alternatives:
- Use applesauce instead of some or all of the oil or butter for a lower-fat option.
- Replace granulated sugar with coconut sugar for a more natural sweetener.
- Incorporate egg whites instead of whole eggs to reduce fat content.
- Try whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour for added fiber.
Pro Tips & Notes
- For extra rich brownies, add a cup of chocolate chips or chopped nuts into the batter.
- Make sure not to overbake; the brownies will continue to cook slightly after being removed from the oven.
- Letting the brownies cool completely will make cutting them much easier and will yield a cleaner slice.
- Feel free to experiment with flavored extracts, such as almond or hazelnut, to give a unique twist to your brownies.
Meal Prep & Storage Notes
You can prepare the dry brownie mix ahead of time and store it in an airtight container for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to bake, simply follow the steps outlined above. Once baked, store the brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or in the refrigerator for longer freshness.
Popular Questions
Can I use brown sugar instead of granulated sugar?
Yes! Using brown sugar will add a deeper flavor and moisture to your brownies. Just keep in mind that it may alter the texture slightly.
What if I don’t have cocoa powder?
If you find yourself without cocoa powder, you can substitute it with carob powder as a chocolate alternative, but the flavor will differ somewhat.
Can I freeze brownie batter?
While it’s best to bake the batter fresh, you can freeze the prepared batter in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Just thaw and bake when you’re ready!
How do I know when my brownies are done baking?
Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick in the center. If it comes out with a few moist crumbs, your brownies are done. If it comes out wet, they need more time.
One Pan, More Ideas
If you love brownies, try these variations for a delightful twist:
- Dulce De Leche Brown Butter Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars – A luscious blend of buttery goodness and sweet caramel.
- Red Velvet Cheesecake Brownies – Indulge in the rich, velvety texture with a cheesecake swirl.
- Mint Brownies – A refreshing minty twist that’s perfect for the chocolate lover.
Bring It to the Table
There’s something incredibly satisfying about serving freshly baked brownies to friends and family. The aroma wafting through your kitchen invites everyone to gather around and enjoy a slice (or two). Whether you serve them warm with a scoop of ice cream or dusted with powdered sugar, The Best Homemade Brownie Mix is sure to impress and satisfy. Enjoy the rich flavors and delightful texture, and watch as they disappear in no time!
The Best Homemade Brownie Mix
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Step 1: Combine the Dry Ingredients - In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar, unsweetened cocoa powder, all-purpose flour, and salt. Ensure there are no clumps to achieve a smooth brownie mix.
- Step 2: Prepare the Wet Ingredients - In another bowl, melt your choice of unsalted butter, vegetable oil, or liquid coconut oil. Allow it to cool slightly before adding in the large eggs, water, and vanilla extract. Whisk these ingredients together until well combined.
- Step 3: Mix Together - Pour the wet ingredients into the bowl of dry ingredients. Stir until just combined, being careful not to overmix. If you like, you can fold in chocolate chips or nuts at this stage for added texture.
- Step 4: Prepare the Baking Pan - Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line your baking pan with parchment paper or grease it lightly to prevent sticking.
- Step 5: Bake - Pour the brownie batter into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.
- Step 6: Cool and Serve - Remove the brownies from the oven and let them cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Lift them out using the parchment paper, if used, and allow them to cool completely on a wire rack before cutting into squares.
Notes
- For extra rich brownies, add a cup of chocolate chips or chopped nuts into the batter.
- Make sure not to overbake; the brownies will continue to cook slightly after being removed from the oven.
- Letting the brownies cool completely will make cutting them much easier and will yield a cleaner slice.
