How to Make Easy Brownies in 5 Simple Steps

Hey there, fellow bakers! Today, I’m super excited to share with you one of my absolute favorite dessert recipes—how to make easy brownies in just 5 simple steps! Whether you’re a busy mom looking for quick family dinners or someone who loves easy pasta recipes, this recipe is perfect for satisfying those sweet cravings without spending hours in the kitchen. So, grab your apron, and let’s dive into this delicious journey together!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy to prepare—perfect for weeknight dinner ideas or last-minute gatherings.
• Uses simple, pantry-staple ingredients you probably already have on hand.
• Fudgy, rich, and indulgent—exactly how brownies should be!
• Customizable with optional mix-ins like chocolate chips or nuts.
• Ready in under 30 minutes, making it a great option for 30-minute meals.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make these easy brownies:

• 1/2 cup oil or 1 stick (1/2 cup) melted butter
• 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 cup sugar
• 2 eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla
• 1/2 cup flour
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/2 cup chocolate chips
• 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)

Full ingredient list with measurements is provided in the printable recipe card below.

How to Make the Recipe

Let’s walk through the steps together:

1. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees and grease a small baking pan (8×8). You can also line it with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine the oil or melted butter, cocoa powder, and sugar. Mix until smooth and well combined.
3. Add the eggs and vanilla, and mix until fully incorporated.
4. Stir in the flour and salt until just combined. Be careful not to overmix at this stage.
5. Gently fold in the chocolate chips and walnuts (if using).
6. Spread the batter evenly in the prepared pan and bake at 350°F for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

Here are a few tips to ensure your brownies turn out perfectly every time:

• For an extra fudgy texture, bake for 18 minutes. If you prefer your brownies more set, go for the full 20 minutes.
• Let the brownies cool completely in the pan before cutting to avoid them falling apart.
• Customize the recipe by adding your favorite mix-ins, like dried cranberries or espresso powder for a mocha twist.

How to Serve

These easy brownies are versatile and can be served in so many ways:

• Slice them into squares and serve as a dessert or snack.
• Top with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent treat.
• Drizzle with chocolate sauce or caramel for extra decadence.
• Pair with a glass of cold milk for the ultimate comfort food experience.

Make Ahead and Storage

These brownies are perfect for making ahead:

• Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• Freeze for up to 2 months and thaw at room temperature when ready to serve.
• Cut into individual portions before freezing for easy grab-and-go snacks.

And there you have it—easy brownies that are quick, delicious, and perfect for any occasion! If you’re looking for more quick and easy recipes, be sure to check out my Hotcake Mix Recipe for Schools or my Classic Swiss Gipfeli Recipe. Don’t forget to try my Pistachio Joe Pudding Popsicle Recipes for a fun and refreshing treat. Happy baking, and I’ll see you in the next recipe!