Thick Chocolate Brownie Squares

Name: Thick Chocolate Brownie Squares
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 16 squares
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter; 2 cups granulated sugar; 4 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup cocoa powder; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips

Highlighted under: Oven-Made Sweets

I absolutely love baking, especially on cozy weekends when I want to indulge in something decadent! Thick Chocolate Brownie Squares have become my go-to treat, rich in flavor and oh-so-satisfying. The combination of velvety chocolate and a hint of cocoa creates a depth of flavor that’s hard to resist. These squares are perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a family gathering or a simple evening at home with a cup of coffee. I can’t wait to share this recipe with you, so let’s get started!

Created by

Ruby Lawson

Last updated on 2026-02-16T10:09:37.250Z

When I first made these Thick Chocolate Brownie Squares, I didn't expect them to turn out so deliciously fudgy. The key was using high-quality chocolate—both in the batter and on top as a ganache. This little detail transformed my brownies from ordinary to extraordinary, making each bite a chocolate lover's dream.

Another tip I learned along the way is to let the brownies cool completely before cutting them into squares. This helps achieve cleaner edges, which not only looks great but also enhances the entire eating experience. Trust me, your friends will definitely be asking for seconds!

Why You'll Love These Brownies
Intensely fudgy texture that satisfies chocolate cravings
Easy to make with simple ingredients
Perfectly sweet with a nice balance of rich chocolate flavor

Perfecting the Brownie Texture

The texture of these Thick Chocolate Brownie Squares is what really sets them apart. To achieve that intensely fudgy consistency, it’s crucial not to overmix the batter after adding the dry ingredients. You want to combine everything just until you no longer see flour; this ensures that the brownies will be dense and chewy rather than cake-like. A gentle folding motion with a spatula works best to maintain the desired texture.

Another key factor is the baking time. While most recipes suggest a baking time of 30 minutes, keep an eye on them as ovens can vary. For primal fudginess, a toothpick should come out with a few moist crumbs attached. If it comes out completely clean, the brownies may be overbaked. This slight underbaking technique retains that gooey center that makes every bite irresistible.

Ingredient Insights

Each ingredient in these brownies plays a significant role in crafting that rich flavor and texture. The unsalted butter adds moisture and a luxurious mouthfeel, while the cocoa powder amplifies the chocolate flavor, making it more intense. If you prefer a less rich brownie, you can reduce the cocoa powder slightly and increase the flour, although this may alter the final texture.

For the chocolate chips, semi-sweet is ideal, but you can customize the level of sweetness. Try using dark chocolate chips for a more sophisticated bitterness that contrasts beautifully with the sweet base. Additionally, using a high-quality chocolate makes a noticeable difference in flavor, so don’t hesitate to splurge a little.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

Once your brownies are cooled and sliced, it’s essential to store them properly to maintain their freshness. I recommend placing them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep them longer, freezing is a great option. Individually wrap each piece in plastic wrap and then store them in a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Simply let them thaw at room temperature before enjoying!

Thick Chocolate Brownie Squares are delightful on their own but can also be elevated with simple toppings. A dusting of powdered sugar adds a touch of elegance, while a scoop of vanilla ice cream served on the side creates an irresistible combination. For a festive twist, consider drizzling melted caramel or chocolate over the top before serving. These variations can create a whole new experience for your brownies!

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients for a rich brownie experience:

Ingredients

1 cup unsalted butter
2 cups granulated sugar
4 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup cocoa powder
1 teaspoon salt
1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips

Make sure to have these ingredients ready before you begin!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your brownie squares:

Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13-inch baking pan.

Melt Butter and Mix Ingredients

In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Remove from heat and stir in sugar, eggs, and vanilla. Mix well.

Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, and salt.

Combine Mixtures

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the melted butter mixture, stirring until just combined. Fold in the chocolate chips.

Bake

Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly. Bake for 30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out mostly clean.

Cool and Serve

Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan before slicing them into squares. Enjoy your delicious creation!

Enjoy your Thick Chocolate Brownie Squares with a glass of milk or a scoop of ice cream!

Pro Tips

For an extra touch, top your brownies with a drizzle of melted chocolate or sprinkle with sea salt before serving.

Troubleshooting Tips

If you find that your brownies are too dry, this might be due to overbaking or an inaccurate oven temperature. Investing in an oven thermometer can help you maintain the correct baking environment. Remember, it’s better to underbake slightly than to risk dryness, as the residual heat will continue cooking them as they cool.

Conversely, if your brownies are too gooey in the center, they may not have baked long enough. To remedy this, return them to the oven for an additional 5-7 minutes. Keep testing with a toothpick to ensure they achieve that perfect balance between moist and fully baked.

Dietary Modifications

For those looking for gluten-free options, substituting all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend works beautifully in this recipe. Just check for one that includes xanthan gum, which helps to mimic the properties of traditional flour and provides structure to your brownies.

If you need a dairy-free version, swapping the unsalted butter with coconut oil or a vegan butter substitute will maintain the rich texture and flavor profile. Be mindful of the chocolate chips; choose a dairy-free variety to ensure the entire brownie remains dairy-free.

Scaling the Recipe

If you want to make a larger batch for events or gatherings, this recipe can easily be doubled. Just use a larger baking pan, such as a 12x18-inch sheet pan, and adjust the baking time accordingly. You may need to increase it by about 5-10 minutes, but always confirm doneness with the toothpick test.

On the flip side, if you’re looking to make a smaller batch, you can halve the recipe and bake in an 8x8-inch pan. The baking time will remain about the same, so keep an eye on them as they bake. Smaller portions can sometimes bake more quickly, which is another reason to use the toothpick method for perfect brownies.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I substitute the butter with oil?

Yes, you can use vegetable oil, but the texture may vary slightly.

→ How should I store the brownies?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.

→ Can I freeze these brownies?

Absolutely! They freeze well for up to three months. Wrap them tightly to avoid freezer burn.

→ What can I add to enhance the flavor?

Consider adding nuts, chocolate chunks, or even orange zest for a different twist!