Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Brown Butter Brownies take the classic fudgy treat to the next level by incorporating rich, nutty brown butter into the batter. The result is an intensely flavorful brownie with a crisp top, chewy edges, and a deep, almost caramel-like undertone. Perfect for chocolate lovers who want an elevated twist on a traditional favorite.

ingredients

Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.

unsalted buttergranulated sugarsaltlarge eggsvanilla extractunsweetened cocoa powderall-purpose floursemi-sweet chocolate chips or chunks

directions

Melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Continue cooking, stirring often, until it foams and turns golden brown with a nutty aroma. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper.

In a mixing bowl, combine the browned butter, sugar, and salt. Stir until smooth.

Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.

Sift in the cocoa powder and mix until fully incorporated.

Fold in the flour just until no streaks remain. Do not overmix.

Gently fold in the chocolate chips or chunks.

Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top.

Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.

Allow to cool completely in the pan before slicing.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields 16 brownies.
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 25–30 minutes
Cooling time: 30 minutes
Total time: 70–75 minutes

Variations

Add chopped toasted nuts like walnuts or pecans for crunch.

Swirl in a layer of peanut butter or cream cheese for a rich contrast.

Top with flaky sea salt before baking to enhance the chocolate flavor.

Use dark chocolate chunks for a bolder taste.

storage/reheating

Store Brown Butter Brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days.
Refrigerate for up to 1 week or freeze for up to 2 months.
To reheat, microwave individual pieces for 10–15 seconds for a warm, gooey texture.

FAQs

What is brown butter?

Brown butter is regular butter that has been cooked until the milk solids turn golden brown, giving it a rich, nutty flavor.

Can I use salted butter?

Yes, but reduce or omit the added salt in the recipe.

Why are my brownies dry?

Overbaking or using too much flour can dry them out. Bake just until set.

Can I use cocoa powder and chocolate chips?

Yes, cocoa adds depth while chips provide bursts of melted chocolate.

Do I need to chill the brownies before slicing?

It’s recommended for clean cuts, but not required.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, bake in a 9×13-inch pan and adjust baking time to 35–40 minutes.

Are these brownies very sweet?

They are rich and chocolatey, with balanced sweetness.

Can I use whole wheat flour?

You can, but the texture may be denser.

Why is my batter so thick?

That’s normal—thick batter contributes to fudgy brownies.

Can I add espresso powder?

Yes, a small amount enhances the chocolate flavor without tasting like coffee.

Conclusion

Brown Butter Brownies are a decadent, gourmet take on a beloved classic. The nutty undertones from browned butter add a new dimension of flavor, making them a standout treat for any occasion. Whether served alone or with a scoop of ice cream, they’re sure to satisfy your chocolate cravings with every bite.