Classic Cocoa Brownies

Simple and quick, from affordable ingredients! Classic Cocoa Brownies can be baked without chocolate, using inexpensive products. The result is a rich flavor and color that every dessert lover will enjoy.
Updated : 26 September, 2025

Easy
About 20 min.
Preparation
Step 1
Use natural cocoa powder without additives; sweetened drinks like Nesquik won’t work. Reduce sugar if you prefer less sweet. Brown sugar can be used for a caramel flavor.
Step 2
Use pure butter without vegetable additives. Melt it any way you prefer - for example, in the microwave.
Step 3
Pour melted butter into a mixing bowl. Add sugar and whisk. The sugar will start dissolving quickly in the warm butter.
Step 4
Crack in the eggs. Wash them first, since even seemingly clean shells may carry harmful bacteria. Ideally, use food-safe detergents and a brush. Mix until smooth. A simple hand whisk is enough here.
Step 5
Add a pinch of salt to enhance the flavor. Sift flour and cocoa to remove impurities and lumps while enriching with oxygen for a lighter texture.
Step 6
Mix the batter until smooth. It should be like thick sour cream. If it’s too thick (depends on the flour), add a bit of warm milk.
Step 7
Take a baking form. Any heatproof dish will do. Silicone forms don’t need greasing, but metal, ceramic, or glass forms should be lightly oiled. Pour the batter in and spread evenly.
Step 8
Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C), top and bottom heat, for 10-20 minutes. The time depends on your oven, form size (best: 6x6 in / 15x15 cm), and preference. Brownies are often baked slightly underdone so they stay moist inside. If you prefer drier, bake longer until a toothpick comes out clean.
Step 9
For a fondant-like brownie, bake until the center is almost liquid. Cut into squares and serve. Warm brownies go great with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Once cooled, drizzle with melted chocolate if desired. Enjoy!