Classic Chocolate Brownies
- Chef Ben
- Sep 21, 2024
- 2 min read
Updated: Jun 4

Ingredients (Makes 20 generous squares)
1½ cups (3 sticks) unsalted butter
2⅔ cups granulated sugar
1½ cups all-purpose flour
1⅛ cups unsweetened cocoa powder
6 large eggs
1½ teaspoons vanilla extract
¾ teaspoon salt
Optional: 1½ cups chopped walnuts or chocolate chips
Instructions
Prep: Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking pan or line with parchment paper.
Melt butter: In a large saucepan, melt butter over low heat. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
Mix wet ingredients: Stir sugar into melted butter until combined. Beat in eggs one at a time, then add vanilla extract.
Add dry ingredients: Sift together flour, cocoa powder, and salt. Fold into wet ingredients until just combined - don't overmix.
Add extras: If using nuts or chocolate chips, fold them in gently.
Bake: Pour batter into prepared 9x13-inch pan and spread evenly. Bake 30-35 minutes until a toothpick comes out with a few moist crumbs.
Cool completely: Let brownies cool in the pan before cutting into 20 squares (4x5 grid).
Chef's Tips for Large Batches
Use a 9x13-inch pan - gives you the perfect thickness for 20 servings
Increase baking time slightly - the thicker batter needs 5-10 extra minutes
Check doneness carefully - larger batches can have uneven cooking
Cool completely - essential for clean cuts when serving a crowd
Cut into a 4x5 grid for 20 perfect squares
Tips for the Perfect Brownies:
Use good quality cocoa powder for a rich chocolate flavor.
Don't overmix the batter to ensure a fudgy texture.
Add chopped nuts or chocolate chips for extra indulgence.
If you prefer a denser texture, chill the brownies in the refrigerator before serving.
Ben's Gadgets
Nordic Ware Treat Rectangular Cake Pan, 9x13
This is the gold standard for baking brownies for a crowd! Nordic Ware's heavy-gauge aluminum ensures even heat distribution, preventing hot spots that can burn edges while leaving centers undercooked. The reinforced encapsulated steel rim prevents warping, which is crucial when you're baking in galley ovens that may not have perfectly even heat. Perfect size for feeding 20 people with those ideal fudgy brownies.
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