Indulge in the irresistible goodness of Decadent Crispy-Top Brownies. These rich and fudgy treats feature a crispy top and a gooey center, making them the perfect indulgence for chocolate lovers. The recipe is straightforward and yields brownies that are both visually appealing and incredibly delicious.

Also try our Chocolate Lava Cake and Black Forest Cake for more chocolate indulge.

WHAT IS BROWNIES?

Brownies are a popular and delicious baked dessert. They are typically made from a combination of ingredients such as flour, sugar, butter, eggs, and chocolate or cocoa powder. Brownies have a rich and fudgy texture, and they often feature a slightly crispy top and a dense, moist center. They can be enjoyed plain or enhanced with additional ingredients like nuts, chocolate chips, or swirls of caramel. Brownies are commonly served as a sweet treat, either on their own or accompanied by a scoop of ice cream, a drizzle of chocolate sauce, or a dusting of powdered sugar. They are loved by chocolate enthusiasts and are a beloved dessert option for many occasions.

INGREDIENTS AND SUBSTITUTES

Ingredient quantities please refer to the recipes card (Click here)!

• Sugar – Sugar adds sweetness and helps to create a tender texture in the brownies. Granulated white sugar is commonly used in brownie recipes. If desired, you can substitute it with an equal amount of brown sugar for a slightly deeper flavor.
• Plain Flour – Plain flour, also known as all-purpose flour, provides structure and texture to the brownies. It is a versatile flour that works well in most baking recipes. You can substitute it with an equal amount of cake flour for a slightly lighter texture or whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor.
• Cocoa Powder – Cocoa powder adds a rich chocolate flavor to the brownies. Use unsweetened cocoa powder for a pure chocolate taste. Dutch-processed cocoa powder can also be used and will provide a smoother and milder chocolate flavor.
• Baking Powder – Baking powder is a leavening agent that helps the brownies rise and become slightly lighter in texture. It can be substituted with half the amount of baking soda if needed.
• Sea Salt – Sea salt enhances the flavor of the brownies and balances the sweetness. If you don’t have sea salt, you can use regular table salt as a substitute.
• Dark Chocolate – Dark chocolate adds a deep, rich chocolate flavor to the brownies. You can use dark chocolate with a cacao percentage that suits your preference. If you don’t have dark chocolate, you can substitute it with semi-sweet chocolate or milk chocolate, adjusting the sweetness level accordingly.
• Unsalted Butter – Unsalted butter provides moisture and richness to the brownies. If you only have salted butter, you can use it, but reduce the amount of salt added separately in the recipe to maintain the balance.
• Egg – Eggs act as a binding agent and add structure to the brownies. They also contribute to the fudgy texture. There are no direct substitutes for eggs in this recipe, but some vegan alternatives like mashed bananas or applesauce can be used for an eggless version, although the texture and flavor may vary.
• Vanilla Paste – Vanilla paste adds a hint of vanilla flavor to the brownies. If you don’t have vanilla paste, you can substitute it with an equal amount of vanilla extract.

RECIPES TIPS

• Use quality ingredients. Choose high-quality ingredients, especially when it comes to chocolate. Opt for good-quality dark chocolate with a high cocoa percentage for a rich and intense flavor.
• Don’t overmix the batter. When combining the wet and dry ingredients, mix just until everything is incorporated. Overmixing can lead to dense and tough brownies.
• Customize the sweetness. Brownie recipes typically specify a certain amount of sugar, but you have the flexibility to adjust the sweetness according to your taste. One way to do this is by choosing different types of chocolate. For example, if you prefer a milder sweetness, you can opt for semi-sweet chocolate instead of dark chocolate. This allows you to tailor the brownies to your personal preference, ensuring they are just the right level of sweetness for your palate.
• Add mix-ins. Customize your brownies by adding nuts, chocolate chips, or other mix-ins of your choice. These additions can provide extra texture and flavor to your brownies.
• Don’t overbake. Keep a close eye on the brownies as they bake. Overbaking can result in dry and crumbly brownies. To test for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center of the brownies – it should come out with a few moist crumbs clinging to it.
• Let them cool completely. Allow the brownies to cool completely in the baking dish before cutting and serving. This allows them to set and ensures cleaner cuts.
• Experiment with toppings. Once cooled, you can get creative with toppings such as powdered sugar, a drizzle of chocolate ganache, or a scoop of ice cream. These additions can enhance the presentation and flavor of the brownies.

STEP BY STEP INSTRUCTIONS

Full recipes and Thermomix® instructions please refer to the recipes card (Click here)!

1. Preheat the oven to 160°C. Grease and line a square cake tin (20 cm) and set it aside.
2. n a mixing bowl, combine the sugar, plain flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and sea salt. Mix them together until well combined. You can use a whisk or a spoon to ensure even distribution of the dry ingredients. Set the mixture aside.
3. Place the dark chocolate in a heatproof bowl and melt it using a double boiler or microwave in short bursts, stirring in between, until smooth and completely melted. Set it aside to cool slightly.
4. In a separate bowl, melt the unsalted butter. You can do this in the microwave or on the stovetop. Let it cool slightly.
5. In a large mixing bowl, whisk the eggs until they are well beaten. Add the melted butter and vanilla paste (if using) to the eggs and whisk until combined.
6. Gradually pour the melted dark chocolate into the egg mixture, whisking constantly to ensure it is well incorporated.
7. Add the dry ingredient mixture to the chocolate mixture, using a spatula or a whisk to gently fold the ingredients together until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
8. Pour the brownie batter into the prepared cake tin, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
9. If desired, sprinkle some extra dark chocolate pieces on top of the batter for added chocolatey goodness.
10. Bake the brownies in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the top is set and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs clinging to it.
11. Remove the brownies from the oven and let them cool completely in the tin before cutting them into squares or rectangles.
12. Serve and enjoy the decadent crispy-top brownies!

Note: Baking times may vary, so keep an eye on the brownies towards the end of the baking time to avoid overbaking. Adjustments may be needed based on your oven’s temperature and performance.

WHAT ELSE TO SERVE WITH ?

Decadent Crispy-Top Brownies are delicious on their own, but if you’d like to serve them with additional accompaniments, here are a few ideas:

1. Vanilla Ice Cream: Serve a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream alongside the warm brownies. The combination of the warm brownie and cold ice cream creates a delightful contrast in temperature and texture.
2. Fresh Berries: Pair the rich chocolate flavor of the brownies with some fresh berries like strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries. The tartness and juiciness of the berries can provide a refreshing balance to the sweetness of the brownies.
3. Whipped Cream: Top each brownie with a dollop of freshly whipped cream. The light and fluffy texture of the whipped cream complements the dense and fudgy brownies.
4. Caramel Sauce: Drizzle some luscious caramel sauce over the brownies for an extra touch of sweetness and indulgence. The caramel adds a rich and buttery flavor to the chocolatey goodness.
5. Coffee or Espresso: Serve a cup of hot coffee or a shot of espresso alongside the brownies. The bitterness of the coffee can help cut through the sweetness of the dessert, creating a harmonious balance of flavors.
6. Milk: For a classic and comforting combination, serve the brownies with a glass of cold milk. The creamy and refreshing milk can help enhance the overall enjoyment of the rich brownie experience.

MADE AHEAD INSTRUCTIONS

If you’d like to make Decadent Crispy-Top Brownies ahead of time, here are instructions for preparing them in advance:

1. Follow the recipe instructions and bake the brownies as directed.
2. Once the brownies are completely cooled, carefully remove them from the baking tin.
3. Place the brownies in an airtight container or wrap them tightly with plastic wrap.
4. Store the brownies at room temperature or in the refrigerator, depending on your preference and the climate. They can typically be stored at room temperature for up to 2-3 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5-7 days.
5. If storing for longer periods, you can freeze the brownies. Wrap individual portions or the whole batch tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container or freezer bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.
6. When you’re ready to enjoy the brownies, remove them from the storage container or unwrap them if frozen. If refrigerated or frozen, you can bring them to room temperature or warm them slightly in the microwave or oven before serving, depending on your preference.
7. Serve the made-ahead brownies as desired, either plain or with your favorite accompaniments such as ice cream, whipped cream, or a dusting of powdered sugar.

By following these made-ahead instructions, you can have a batch of Decadent Crispy-Top Brownies prepared in advance, allowing for convenient and delicious indulgence whenever you desire.

STORAGE & REHEATING

Storage:

• Store the Decadent Crispy-Top Brownies in an airtight container or wrap them tightly in plastic wrap to maintain freshness.
• Keep them at room temperature or in the refrigerator, depending on your preference and the climate.
• At room temperature, they can be stored for up to 2-3 days.
• In the refrigerator, they can be stored for up to 5-7 days.
• If you need to store them for a longer period, you can freeze the brownies. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container or freezer bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating:

• If you prefer to enjoy the brownies warm, there are a few options for reheating:
  1. Microwave: Place a brownie portion on a microwave-safe plate and heat it for 10-15 seconds on medium power. Check the temperature and continue heating in short intervals if needed.
  2. Oven: Preheat the oven to 180°C. Place the brownies on a baking sheet and warm them for 5-10 minutes, or until heated through. Be careful not to overheat them, as they can become dry.
  3. Individual portions: If reheating individual portions, you can also use a toaster oven or an air fryer, following the appliance’s instructions for heating baked goods.

Note: Keep in mind that reheating may result in a slightly different texture compared to freshly baked brownies. They may become softer and lose some crispiness. It’s recommended to enjoy the brownies at room temperature for the best texture and flavor.

Remember to adjust the reheating time based on the desired warmth and the power of your microwave or oven. Enjoy the brownies at their best by storing them properly and reheating them gently to maintain their deliciousness.

RECIPES FAQS

Can I adjust the fudginess of the brownies?

To adjust the fudginess of brownies, you can make a few modifications to the recipe and baking process. Here are some tips:

1. Chocolate Ratio: Increase the amount of chocolate or cocoa powder in the recipe. This will intensify the chocolate flavor and contribute to a fudgier texture. You can add extra melted chocolate.
2. Fat Content: Increase the fat content in the brownie batter. Use a higher proportion of butter or substitute some of the butter with oil. More fat helps create a denser and moister texture.
3. Baking Time: Reduce the baking time slightly. Keep a close eye on the brownies and test for doneness earlier than the recommended time. Remember that fudgy brownies should still have a slightly gooey center when fully cooked.
4. Eggs: Use a larger number of egg yolks or add an extra egg. The fat content in egg yolks contributes to a fudgy texture.

Can I make the brownie batter ahead of time and bake it later?

 It’s not recommended to make the brownie batter ahead of time and store it before baking. Brownie batter typically contains leavening agents like baking powder, which may lose its effectiveness over time. It’s best to prepare the batter and bake it immediately for the best results.

Can I freeze the brownie batter?

Freezing the brownie batter is not recommended as it may alter the texture and affect the rise of the brownies. It’s better to bake the brownies first and then freeze them if you want to store them for a longer period.

Can I store leftover brownies in the refrigerator?

 Yes, you can store leftover brownies in the refrigerator. Place them in an airtight container or wrap them tightly in plastic wrap to maintain freshness. They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5-7 days.

Can I reheat the entire batch of brownies?

Yes, you can reheat the entire batch of brownies by placing them on a baking sheet and warming them in a preheated oven at 180°C for about 5-10 minutes, or until heated through. Be mindful not to overheat them to avoid drying them out.

Can I serve the brownies chilled?

 Absolutely! Brownies can be enjoyed at room temperature, slightly warmed, or chilled, depending on personal preference. Chilled brownies can have a denser and fudgier texture, which some people prefer.

Can I add nuts or other mix-ins to the brownie batter?

Yes, you can add nuts, chocolate chips, or other mix-ins to the brownie batter before baking. Simply fold them in gently just before transferring the batter to the baking tin.

Can I adjust the portion size of the recipes?

You have the flexibility to adjust the recipe by changing the serving size in the recipe card to suit your preferences. However, it’s important to note that doubling the recipe is not recommended as it may exceed the mixing bowl capacity and affect the baking time.

If you can’t find the exact portion you desire, you can manually adjust the recipe. Keep in mind that you’ll need to make corresponding changes to the cooking times and temperatures for different ingredient quantities. Additionally, when melting butter and chocolate, you may need to extend the melting time.

Please be mindful not to exceed the maximum line indicated inside the mixing bowl, as its capacity is 2.2 liters.

This recipes is compatible with which model of Thermomix®?

This recipes suitable for TM31 / TM5 / TM6

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