Description
Deliciously rich and fudgy shaped brownies loaded with chocolate chips and colorful M&Ms, perfect for special occasions or fun dessert presentations. These brownies feature a smooth blend of unsweetened chocolate and butter with a hint of espresso powder to intensify the chocolate flavor, baked to a moist, chewy perfection.
Ingredients
Brownie Base
- 3 ounces (85 g) unsweetened chocolate
- 8 Tablespoons (1 stick, 1/2 cup, or 115 grams) unsalted butter
- 1 and 1/3 cups (265 g) granulated white sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon instant espresso or coffee powder (optional)
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon flaky sea salt
- 2/3 cup (85 grams) all-purpose flour
Add-ins and Toppings
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips or chunks
- 1 cup M&Ms (plus a few more for sprinkling)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper or foil to allow easy removal of the brownies after baking.
- Melt Chocolate and Butter: Using either a microwave at 50% power or a medium saucepan over low heat, melt the unsweetened chocolate and unsalted butter together, stirring frequently until smooth. Remove from heat once melted.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: To the melted chocolate mixture, add granulated sugar, optional espresso powder, and eggs. Whisk vigorously until fully incorporated. Then stir in vanilla extract and flaky sea salt, whisking again for even distribution.
- Add Flour and Mix-ins: Sprinkle flour evenly over the batter and gently stir with a spoon or spatula just until combined, avoiding overmixing. Fold in the chocolate chips and M&Ms carefully.
- Fill the Pan and Top: Scrape the thick batter into the prepared baking pan, using the spatula to press into corners if needed. Scatter a few extra M&Ms on top for a decorative finish.
- Bake the Brownies: Bake in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. Avoid overbaking to keep the brownies fudgy.
- Cool and Shape: Remove from the oven and allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan at room temperature. Once cooled, lift the entire brownie slab out using the parchment or foil liner. Cut into fun shapes with cookie cutters and serve.
Notes
- Using espresso powder is optional but enhances the chocolate flavor without adding a coffee taste.
- Line your baking pan carefully to ensure easy removal and clean edges of your brownies.
- Do not overmix after adding the flour to maintain a tender brownie texture.
- Cool brownies completely before cutting shapes to avoid crumbling.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or freeze for longer storage.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American