Easy Homemade Brownies

Instructions

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 180°C (356°F) and position the rack in the middle or slightly higher.
2. Prepare Baking Tray: Prepare an 8-inch (20x20 cm) baking tray by greasing it and lining with baking paper, allowing the paper to overhang for easy removal of the brownies.
3. Brown the Butter: In a pan over low heat, melt the butter, stirring every 15 seconds, until it starts to foam, bubble, and then turns to a light brown color with a nutty aroma. Turn off the heat.
4. Mix Cocoa and Vanilla with Butter: Add the cocoa powder and vanilla to the browned butter, stirring well to combine. Set aside.
5. Beat Sugar and Eggs: In a large bowl, mix the sugar and eggs until light and fluffy. This step is crucial for achieving the characteristic shiny top layer on the brownies.
6. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gently fold the brown butter mixture into the egg and sugar mixture. Then, gradually add the flour and salt, folding until just combined without overmixing.
7. Add Optional Chocolate: If using, fold in the chopped dark chocolate.
8. Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared tray, spreading evenly. Bake for approximately 35 minutes, or until done.
9. Cool and Serve: Allow the brownies to cool completely in the tray before cutting into pieces. Serve as is, or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra treat.