Chef RV's Ultimate Fudgy Chewy Brownies

Ingredients: Chocolatey Goodness in Every Bite

• 200g unsalted butter
• 250g dark brown sugar
• 200g dark chocolate chips or bittersweet chocolate
• 50g unsweetened cocoa powder
• 200g sweetened condensed milk
• 3 large eggs
• 180g all-purpose flour
• 100g coarsely chopped walnuts (optional)

Step by Step: Making the Perfect Chewy Brownies

1. Caramelizing Butter and Sugar: The Secret to a Flaky Top First, melt the butter and brown sugar together in a saucepan over medium heat. Bring the mixture to a full boil, allowing it to bubble for around 1-2 minutes. This step is crucial for achieving that desired flaky top on your brownies.

2. Melt-in-your-mouth Chocolate Next, reduce the heat to low and add the dark chocolate chips or bittersweet chocolate to the saucepan. Stir until the chocolate has melted, and then sift in the cocoa powder. Continue to stir the mixture until well combined.

3. Adding Creaminess and Chewiness with Condensed Milk Turn off the heat and stir in the sweetened condensed milk. This addition gives your brownies an extra creamy and chewy texture that will make them irresistible.

4. Tempering Eggs: A Crucial Step for a Smooth Texture In a separate bowl, lightly beat the eggs. Temper the eggs by adding a small amount of the brownie mixture to the beaten eggs, stirring constantly to prevent the eggs from cooking. Once the eggs are tempered, pour them into the saucepan with the rest of the brownie mixture and mix well.

5. Incorporating Flour and Optional Walnuts Gently fold in the all-purpose flour and coarsely chopped walnuts (if using) until just combined. Avoid overmixing, as this can cause the brownies to become tough.

6. Baking the Brownies Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8x8 inch square pan and line it with parchment paper, ensuring it extends over the sides for easy removal. Pour the brownie batter into the pan and spread it evenly. Bake the brownies for 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan before cutting and serving.

Nutrition Information

Servings: 16 Serving size: 70g

• Calories: 371 kcal
• Total Fat: 22g
• Saturated Fat: 12g
• Cholesterol: 71mg
• Sodium: 41mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 42g
• Dietary Fiber: 3g
• Sugars: 26g
• Protein: 6g

Perfect Pairings: What to Serve with Chewy Brownies

These delicious brownies are perfect on their own or served with a variety of complementary accompaniments. Here are some suggestions to enhance your brownie experience:

• Vanilla Ice Cream: A classic pairing, a scoop of vanilla ice cream is the perfect complement to the rich chocolate flavor of the brownies. The cold, creamy texture contrasts beautifully with the warm, chewy brownie.
• Fresh Berries: Add a burst of freshness to your brownie by serving it with a mix of fresh berries such as strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries. The tartness of the berries balances the sweetness of the brownie, creating a delightful combination.
• Whipped Cream: Light and fluffy, whipped cream adds a touch of indulgence to your brownie experience. You can either serve it on the side or pipe it directly onto the brownie for a more decorative presentation.
• Caramel Sauce: Drizzle warm caramel sauce over your brownie to add another layer of rich, gooey sweetness. You can make your own caramel sauce or use store-bought to save time.
• Chocolate Ganache: For an extra dose of chocolate, top your brownies with a rich, velvety chocolate ganache. This simple mixture of chocolate and heavy cream will take your brownies to the next level of decadence.
• Mint Chocolate Chip Ice Cream: If you're a fan of the chocolate-mint combination, try serving your brownies with a scoop of mint chocolate chip ice cream. The cool, refreshing mint flavor pairs perfectly with the chewy, chocolatey brownie.
• Coffee or Espresso: A strong, bold coffee or espresso is an excellent beverage choice to serve with your brownies. The bitterness of the coffee contrasts with the sweetness of the brownie, creating a balanced and satisfying pairing.

FAQs about Chef RV Chewy Brownies

What kind of chocolate should I use for the brownies?

For the best results, use high-quality dark chocolate with a cocoa content of at least 60%. You can also use semi-sweet chocolate if you prefer a slightly sweeter taste.

Can I substitute any ingredients for dietary restrictions or allergies?

Yes, you can make substitutions based on your preferences or dietary needs. For example, you can replace all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version, or use dairy-free chocolate and a non-dairy milk alternative for a lactose-free or vegan version.

How do I know when my brownies are done baking?

The brownies are done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs, but not wet batter. Be careful not to overbake, as this can result in dry, crumbly brownies. The edges should be set, but the center should still be slightly gooey.

Can I freeze the brownies for later?

Yes, you can freeze the brownies. Once they have cooled completely, cut them into squares and wrap each piece individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Then, store them in an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. To enjoy, thaw the brownies at room temperature or reheat them in the oven or microwave.

Can I add mix-ins like nuts or chocolate chips to the batter?

Absolutely! Feel free to customize your brownies by adding your favorite mix-ins like chopped nuts, chocolate chips, or even dried fruit. Simply fold your desired additions into the batter before pouring it into the baking pan.

How should I store the brownies?

Store the brownies in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay fresh for up to 4-5 days. If you want to keep them fresh for a longer period, consider freezing them following the instructions in Q4.

Can I make these brownies in a different size pan?

Yes, you can adjust the recipe for different-sized pans. Keep in mind that the baking time will vary depending on the pan size, so be sure to check the brownies frequently for doneness using the toothpick test mentioned in Q3.