Classic Fudgy Brownies (Crinkly Top, One Bowl) are an indulgent treat that perfectly marry gooey chocolate flavor with a shiny, crinkly top, creating a delightful visual and taste experience. Not only are they quick to whip up, but they also come together in just one bowl, making cleanup a breeze. The rich combination of dark chocolate and cocoa powder results in a fudgy texture that is simply irresistible, making these brownies a crowd-pleaser at any occasion.

Table of Contents

Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need
How to Make Classic Fudgy Brownies (Crinkly Top, One Bowl)
Storing & Reheating
Chef’s Helpful Tips
Recipe FAQs
Classic Fudgy Brownies (Crinkly Top, One Bowl)

Classic Fudgy Brownies (Crinkly Top, One Bowl)

My journey with these crinkle top brownies began on a rainy afternoon when I craved something sweet and comforting. As I rummaged through my pantry, I discovered the simple ingredients needed to make these delicious brownies. Once I had them in the oven, the smell of melting chocolate filled my kitchen, creating an atmosphere of warmth and nostalgia. With a bite that melts in your mouth, these Classic Fudgy Brownies are sure to become your new favorite dessert. Let’s share some chocolatey joy, shall we?

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Simple & Quick: Whip these up in just 15 minutes and bake for about 30-35 minutes.
Irresistible Flavor: Dark chocolate combines with cocoa for a deeply rich, fudgy taste.
Eye-Catching Appeal: The shiny, crinkly top makes every brownie visually stunning.
Flexible Serving: Perfect for dessert, snack, or even breakfast (we won’t tell).
Make-ahead Friendly: Easy to prepare ahead of time for gatherings or special occasions.

Ingredients You’ll Need

200 grams (1 cup) caster sugar or granulated sugar: This sweetener gives structure and sweetness. You can substitute with coconut sugar for a less refined option.
3 large eggs: Essential for binding and providing the fudgy texture we love. Room temperature eggs work best.
115 grams (1/2 cup or 1 stick) unsalted butter: Using unsalted butter helps control the salt in the recipe. Substitute with margarine or coconut oil for a dairy-free alternative.
200 grams (1 and 1/3 cup) dark chocolate (45-70% cocoa): Choice of chocolate adds richness. Higher cocoa content provides a more intense flavor. Use vegan chocolate chips for a vegan option.
70 grams (1/2 cup) plain flour or all-purpose flour: This helps achieve the right consistency. For a gluten-free version, almond or oat flour can work well.
20 grams (1/4 cup) cocoa powder, sifted: Adds a deep chocolatey flavor and contributes to the fudgy texture.
1/4 teaspoon salt: Balances sweetness and enhances the chocolate flavor.
75 grams (1/2 cup) chocolate chips: These add delightful pockets of melty chocolate. Substitute with nuts for a crunchier texture if you prefer.

How to Make Classic Fudgy Brownies (Crinkly Top, One Bowl)

Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 180°C (350°F) standard or 160°C (320°F) for fan-forced cooking. Prepare an 8-inch square or round baking pan by greasing and lining it with parchment paper.
Mix Sugar and Eggs: In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 cup caster sugar and 3 large eggs. Whisk together by hand for about 30 seconds until creamy and just combined — it doesn’t need to be fluffy.
Melt Butter and Chocolate: Using a microwave-safe bowl, combine 1/2 cup unsalted butter and 200 grams dark chocolate. Heat in the microwave, stirring every 20 seconds, until melted and smooth.
Combine Mixtures: Pour the melted chocolate and butter into the egg mixture. Whisk gently until smooth and fully integrated.
Add Dry Ingredients: Fold in 1/2 cup plain flour, 1/4 cup cocoa powder, and 1/4 teaspoon salt using a spatula. Mix just until a thick, smooth batter forms.
Incorporate Chocolate Chips: Gently fold in 1/2 cup chocolate chips, ensuring an even distribution.
Bake: Pour the brownie batter into the prepared pan, smoothing it into an even layer. Bake for 30–35 minutes until the brownies are shiny on top and no longer wobble in the middle. A toothpick inserted should come out almost clean, with a few crumbs clinging to it — that’s the sign of gooey greatness!
Cool and Slice: Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan. Once set, take them out, cut them into small squares, and enjoy. These brownies can be stored at room temperature or in the fridge, plus they freeze well for up to three months.

Storing & Reheating

Brownies can be stored at room temperature in an airtight container for up to three days. If you opt for refrigeration, they’ll stay fresh for up to a week in the fridge. For longer storage, freeze the brownies in a single layer, separated by parchment paper, for up to three months. To reheat, simply pop them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds for a warm, fudgy treat. Note that the texture may change slightly after freezing, but a quick warm-up will refresh their deliciousness.

Chef’s Helpful Tips

Be careful not to overmix the batter once the flour is added; this can make your brownies tough.
Remember to use eggs at room temperature for better mixing, which can lead to a lighter texture.
Ensure your butter and chocolate mixture isn’t too hot when added to the eggs to prevent scrambling.
If your brownies sink in the middle, it could be due to underbaking, so always check for the toothpick results.
For an extra flavor boost, try adding a teaspoon of vanilla extract or a pinch of espresso powder to enhance the chocolate taste.

Enjoy these Classic Fudgy Brownies with family and friends, or savor them alone with a cup of coffee. This recipe showcases beautiful simplicity yet delivers extraordinary flavors. Don’t hesitate to get creative with mix-ins — nuts, caramel swirls, or a sprinkle of sea salt can add unique twists.

Recipe FAQs

How do I know when my brownies are done baking?

Brownies are done when the top is shiny and crinkled, and a toothpick inserted into the center should come out with a few moist crumbs, but not wet batter. Your specific oven might slightly vary baking time, so keep an eye on them!

Can I make these brownies gluten-free?

Absolutely! You can substitute the all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour blends or almond flour. Just remember their texture may vary slightly, but they’ll still be delicious!

Can I store these brownies in the fridge?

Yes, you can store brownies in the fridge for up to a week in an airtight container. Just let them come to room temperature before serving to enhance their fudginess.

Can I freeze the brownies?

Definitely! Brownies can be frozen for up to three months. Just ensure you wrap them well in plastic wrap and place them in an airtight container. When ready to enjoy, thaw them in the fridge overnight or microwave for a few seconds for that fresh-out-of-the-oven experience.

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Classic Fudgy Brownies (Crinkly Top, One Bowl)

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Author: anna
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 50 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Yield: 12 servings 1x
Category: Desserts
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

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Description

These Classic Fudgy Brownies feature a crinkly top and rich chocolate flavor, made easily in one bowl. Perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth or as a treat for gatherings!

Ingredients

Scale

200 grams (1 cup) caster sugar or granulated sugar
3 large eggs
115 grams (1/2 cup or 1 stick) unsalted butter
200 grams (1 and 1/3 cup) dark chocolate (45-70% cocoa), broken into pieces
70 grams (1/2 cup) plain flour or all purpose flour
20 grams (1/4 cup) cocoa powder, sifted
1/4 teaspoon salt
75 grams (1/2 cup) chocolate chips

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Instructions

Preheat your oven to 180 C (350 F) standard / 160 C (320 F) fan-forced. Grease and line an 8-inch square or round baking pan with parchment paper.
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together sugar and eggs for about 30 seconds until creamy and combined.
In a microwave-safe bowl, combine butter and dark chocolate. Heat in the microwave, stirring every 20 seconds until melted and smooth.
Add the melted chocolate mixture to the egg mixture and whisk until smooth.
Gently fold in flour, cocoa powder, and salt until a thick batter forms. Stir in chocolate chips.
Pour the brownie batter into the prepared pan and smooth into an even layer. Bake for 30-35 minutes until shiny on top and a toothpick comes out almost clean.
Allow the brownies to cool in the pan completely before cutting into squares. Store at room temperature, in the fridge, or freeze.

Notes

These brownies can be stored at room temperature for a few days or in the fridge if you prefer a chilled treat.
They freeze well, making them perfect for meal prep or on-the-go snacks.