Brown butter brownies take a classic dessert to the next level by adding a rich, nutty depth of flavor. Browning butter creates a process which both strengthens its natural smell and adds depth to the taste profile compared to other forms of traditional brownies. The ideal brownie lover needs this recipe which features chewy fudgy brownies with edges that become crisp while the center stays moist and gooey.
Brown butter increases its unique appeal through a particular process. Melted butter heated to medium temperature enables milk solids to toasting points which generates a sweet caramel aroma. The small butter-browning technique infuses the mixture with rich buttery notes which complement dark chocolate and cocoa powder perfectly. The brownies offer ideal texture quality because they strike the right balance of soft moistness and chewy firmness which appeals to all chocolate enthusiasts.
In this recipe, you’ll learn how to brown the butter properly, mix the ingredients for the best texture, and bake brownies that are dense, fudgy, and full of chocolate flavor. These brownies will find a permanent spot in your kitchen space after you bake them for any occasion or personal enjoyment.
Table of Contents
Key Benefits of Brown Butter Brownies
Brown butter brownies stand out from traditional brownies because of their deep, nutty flavor and ultra-fudgy texture. The simple step of browning butter transforms the taste, making each bite richer, more aromatic, and perfectly balanced. Here are the top reasons why brown butter makes these brownies the best you’ll ever try.
1. Rich, Nutty Flavor
When you brown the butter, the milk solids toast, creating a caramel-like aroma that enhances the chocolatey depth of the brownies. This extra step brings out warm, toasty notes that pair beautifully with cocoa powder and dark chocolate, making the flavor deeper and more intense.
2. Fudgy and Moist Texture
Brown butter brownies have a gooey center and chewy edges, giving them that bakery-style quality. The balance of melted butter, cocoa powder, and eggs creates a dense, moist texture that makes each bite indulgent. Unlike cakey brownies, these stay rich and soft, even after cooling.
3. Elevated Chocolate Taste
Brown butter intensifies the chocolatey goodness of the brownies. The slight bitterness from the toasted milk solids enhances the sweetness of the cocoa powder, making the chocolate taste richer and more complex. Adding a bit of espresso powder further amplifies the deep cocoa flavor without making the brownies taste like coffee.
4. Chewy and Crisp Contrast
A great brownie should have the perfect balance of textures—a crispy, crackly top and a dense, fudgy interior. The browned butter helps achieve this by adding richness to the batter, while the sugar caramelizes slightly during baking, giving the top that delicate, paper-thin crust.
5. No Mixer Needed
This brownie recipe is simple and beginner-friendly, requiring just a whisk and a mixing bowl. Since the butter is melted and browned, you don’t need to cream it with sugar. Everything comes together easily, making this an effortless homemade brownie recipe.
6. Bakery-Style Brownies at Home
These brownies taste better than store-bought or boxed mixes, giving you a gourmet-quality dessert straight from your own kitchen. The rich brown butter aroma, fudgy center, and intense chocolate flavor make them a standout treat for any occasion.
7. Versatile and Customizable
Brown butter brownies can be easily adapted to your taste. Want extra crunch? Add chopped walnuts or pecans. Prefer extra sweetness? Swirl in caramel or top with flaky sea salt. Whether you like classic brownies or creative variations, this recipe serves as a perfect base.
Brown butter doesn’t just make these brownies better—it makes them unforgettable.
Ingredients for Brown Butter Brownies
To make these ultra-fudgy brown butter brownies, you’ll need simple pantry staples that come together for the perfect balance of richness, chewiness, and deep chocolate flavor. Here’s everything you need:
1. Butter (¾ cup or 170g unsalted butter)
- Brown butter is the star of this recipe. Browning the butter over medium heat enhances the flavor, giving the brownies a nutty, caramel-like richness.
- Use unsalted butter to control the salt content.
2. Sugar
- 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar – Helps create a crackly top by dissolving into the warm butter.
- ½ cup (100g) light brown sugar – Adds moisture, chewiness, and a hint of molasses flavor.
3. Eggs (3 large eggs + 1 egg yolk)
- Eggs provide structure and help achieve the fudgy texture.
- An extra egg yolk adds richness and chewiness.
4. Vanilla Extract (2 teaspoons)
- Enhances the chocolate flavor and rounds out the buttery aroma.
5. Cocoa Powder (½ cup or 50g unsweetened cocoa powder)
- A key ingredient for deep chocolate flavor.
- Choose a good-quality unsweetened cocoa powder to enhance the chocolate flavor.
6. Espresso Powder (1 teaspoon, optional)
- Boosts the intensity of the chocolate without making the brownies taste like coffee.
- Can be omitted, but highly recommended for extra depth.
7. Flour (¾ cup or 95g all-purpose flour)
- Just enough to hold everything together while keeping the brownies dense and fudgy.
- Avoid overmixing to prevent a cakier texture.
8. Salt (½ teaspoon)
- Balances the sweetness and enhances the rich cocoa notes.
9. Dark Chocolate Chips or Chopped Chocolate (½ cup or 85g)
- Melted into the batter for extra richness and chocolate intensity.
- Can also be folded in for gooey chocolate pockets in every bite.
10. Optional Toppings & Mix-Ins
- Flaky sea salt – Sprinkled on top for contrast.
- Chopped nuts (walnuts, pecans, or almonds) – Adds a crunchy texture.
- Caramel drizzle or peanut butter swirls – For an extra indulgent twist.
Equipment Needed
- Small saucepan – To brown the butter.
- Large mixing bowl – For combining ingredients.
- Whisk and spatula – For mixing.
- 8×8-inch baking pan – To bake the brownies.
- Parchment paper – For easy removal.
How to Make Brown Butter Brownies
Making these brown butter brownies is simple and straightforward. The addition of browned butter is the only extra step, but it transforms the flavor and texture into something truly special. Here’s how to make these rich, fudgy brownies from start to finish:
Step 1: Brown the Butter
- Melt the butter: Place your unsalted butter in a small saucepan over medium heat.
- Brown the butter: Stir the butter occasionally as it melts. After a couple of minutes, it will start to foam and sizzle. Keep stirring until the butter turns golden brown and develops a nutty aroma. You’ll see brown bits forming at the bottom of the pan. This is the milk solids caramelizing.
- Remove from heat: As soon as the butter reaches a rich golden brown color, take it off the heat to prevent burning. Let it cool for a few minutes.
Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients
- Combine sugars and eggs: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar, brown sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Add eggs: Add in the 3 eggs plus the extra egg yolk, one at a time, whisking well after each addition. This helps the brownies achieve a dense and fudgy texture.
- Add the browned butter: Once the butter has cooled slightly, pour it into the sugar and egg mixture. Whisk until everything is fully combined.
Step 3: Add the Dry Ingredients
- Sift the dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, sift together the unsweetened cocoa powder, all-purpose flour, and salt.
- Fold in the dry ingredients: Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture. Stir gently using a spatula or spoon to combine the ingredients without overworking the batter. The batter should be thick and slightly glossy.
Step 4: Add Chocolate Chips (Optional)
- Stir in chocolate chips: If you’re using chocolate chips or chopped dark chocolate, fold them into the batter. This will add extra chocolate pockets in the final brownies.
Step 5: Bake the Brownies
- Prepare the pan: Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper for easy removal.
- Pour in the batter: Spread the brownie batter evenly into the prepared pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.
- Bake: Place the pan in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 25-30 minutes. Check for doneness around 25 minutes by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out with a few moist crumbs, not wet batter. The brownies will continue to cook slightly after being removed from the oven.
Step 6: Cool and Serve
- Cool completely: Allow the brownies to cool in the pan for at least 30 minutes. For best results, let them cool completely before cutting into squares.
- Cut into squares: Once cool, lift the brownies out of the pan using the parchment paper, then cut into 16 squares or 9 larger pieces, depending on your preference.
- Optional toppings: If desired, sprinkle a pinch of flaky sea salt on top of each brownie for an extra burst of flavor.
These brown butter brownies are ready to serve and enjoy! With their fudgy center, crisp edges, and deep chocolate flavor, they are sure to become a favorite treat.
Pro Tips and Variations
To elevate your brown butter brownies and make them truly special, here are some expert tips and variations you can try. These tweaks can adjust the flavor, texture, and overall experience of your brownies, so feel free to experiment!
Pro Tips for Perfect Brown Butter Brownies
- Brown the Butter Just Right: The key to a great brown butter brownie is achieving the perfect browned butter. Don’t rush this step. The butter should be a deep golden-brown with a rich, nutty aroma. Keep a close eye on it as it can burn quickly if left unattended.
- Cool the Browned Butter: Allow the browned butter to cool slightly before adding it to the batter. This helps prevent cooking the eggs when you mix them in. Warm but not hot butter creates a silky texture in the brownies.
- Use Room Temperature Ingredients: For the best results, use room-temperature eggs and sugars. Cold eggs can make the batter harder to mix, which might affect the final texture of your brownies. Let the eggs sit out for about 15 minutes before using them.
- Don’t Overmix the Batter: After adding the dry ingredients, fold them into the wet ingredients gently. Overmixing can result in a less fudgy texture. Stir just until the ingredients are combined.
- Test for Doneness Carefully: Start checking your brownies around 25 minutes to avoid overbaking. Insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out with a few moist crumbs. If it’s too wet, the brownies need a little more time. The brownies will set further as they cool, so keep that in mind when testing for doneness.
Brown Butter Brownie Variations
While the basic brown butter brownie recipe is already delicious, here are some fun variations you can try to suit your taste preferences:
- Add Chocolate Chips: For extra chocolatey goodness, fold in dark chocolate chips or milk chocolate chunks. This creates pockets of gooey chocolate in every bite.
- Swirl in Peanut Butter: Before baking, drop spoonfuls of peanut butter on top of the batter and swirl it with a knife. The peanut butter adds a rich, creamy flavor that complements the nuttiness of the brown butter.
- Espresso Powder: If you love coffee, add espresso powder to the dry ingredients. Just a small amount can enhance the chocolate flavor and add a subtle, coffee-infused depth to the brownies.
- Add a Crunch: For some texture, mix in chopped nuts like walnuts, pecans, or almonds. Toasting them beforehand will intensify the flavor and add an extra layer of crunch to your brownies.
- Make It a Blondie: If you prefer a lighter version of the brownie, try making brown butter blondies instead. Simply omit the cocoa powder, and you’ll get a chewy, caramel-like dessert with the rich flavor of browned butter.
- Salted Brown Butter Brownies: Add a sprinkle of sea salt on top of the brownies before baking or after they come out of the oven. The salt enhances the sweetness and adds a beautiful contrast to the rich chocolate flavor.
- Minty Brown Butter Brownies: Add a few drops of mint extract to the batter for a refreshing minty twist. Pair this with dark chocolate chips or chunks for a classic mint-chocolate combination.
With these tips and variations, you can create the perfect brown butter brownies that fit your personal taste. Whether you prefer a classic version or want to experiment with new flavors, these brownies are sure to be a hit every time!
Serving Suggestions
These brown butter brownies are decadent on their own, but if you want to elevate your serving game, there are plenty of delicious ways to enjoy them. Here are some creative and tasty serving suggestions that will impress your family, friends, or guests:
Classic Serving Style
- Serve as a Snack: Brown butter brownies are perfect for a midday treat or after-school snack. Pair them with a cup of coffee or tea for an indulgent break.
- Cut into Small Squares: For easy portioning, cut the brownies into small squares and serve them on a plate for a fun, bite-sized treat. This method is great for sharing at parties or gatherings.
Serve with Ice Cream
- Vanilla Ice Cream: Warm brown butter brownies with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top. The cold, creamy ice cream perfectly balances the rich and fudgy texture of the brownies. You can even drizzle a little chocolate syrup for extra flavor.
- Salted Caramel Ice Cream: For a more indulgent twist, pair the brownies with salted caramel ice cream. The combination of brown sugar, caramel, and the nutty flavor of brown butter is irresistible.
Add Some Fruit
- Fresh Berries: Serve brown butter brownies alongside a bowl of fresh berries such as raspberries, strawberries, or blackberries. The tartness of the fruit complements the sweetness of the brownies perfectly.
- Bananas: For a more filling dessert, add a few slices of banana on top of the brownies or serve them on the side. The sweet, creamy texture of bananas pairs wonderfully with the chocolatey richness of the brownies.
Top with Whipped Cream or Ganache
- Whipped Cream: A dollop of fresh whipped cream on top of each brownie is a simple yet luxurious way to enhance the dessert. It adds a light, airy contrast to the dense fudgy brownies.
- Chocolate Ganache: For an extra touch of indulgence, drizzle chocolate ganache over the top of your brownies. The smooth, rich ganache adds another layer of chocolate flavor that perfectly complements the brown butter.
Make a Brownie Sundae
Turn your brownies into a show-stopping dessert by creating a brownie sundae. Layer warm brownies, vanilla ice cream, a drizzle of hot fudge, and a sprinkle of chopped nuts or chocolate shavings for a treat everyone will love. Garnish with a cherry on top for that classic sundae finish.
Pair with Drinks
- Coffee: Brown butter brownies and coffee are a match made in heaven. The nutty richness of the butter enhances the coffee’s bold flavors, creating the perfect dessert duo.
- Milk: You can’t go wrong with a tall glass of cold milk to accompany your brownies. Whether it’s whole milk, almond milk, or another variety, milk brings out the best in these sweet treats.
Serve as a Party Treat
- Party Platter: If you’re hosting a gathering or celebration, arrange the brown butter brownies on a platter and serve them as part of a dessert spread. They pair well with other sweets like cookies, bars, and cakes.
- Chocolate Lovers’ Delight: For the ultimate dessert table, serve the brown butter brownies alongside chocolate truffles, fudge, and a chocolate fondue fountain for an unforgettable chocolate experience.
These brown butter brownies are versatile and can be enjoyed in many different ways. Whether you choose a simple serving or create a more elaborate dessert, they’re sure to be a hit with everyone who tries them!
Conclusion
In conclusion, brown butter brownies are a simple yet indulgent treat that elevate the classic brownie to new heights. Melted and golden brown butter adds a decadent nutty flavor to brownies so that they acquire an intense chocolate complementation. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just craving a delicious dessert, these brownies are sure to impress with their fudgy texture and intense flavor.
The simple process together with basic methods enable you to achieve exceptional brownie results. Test out different additions to your brownies through the addition of chocolate chips as well as peanut butter swirls and espresso powder for creating novel versions of this cherished dessert.
No matter how you choose to enjoy them—whether with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, a dollop of whipped cream, or just on their own—these brown butter brownies are guaranteed to satisfy your cravings and have everyone coming back for seconds. They’re the perfect combination of richness, sweetness, and chocolate goodness in every bite.
To achieve brownies that will become your definite choice you need your ingredients together with browned butter awaiting your delicious baking experience. Happy baking!
To deepen your understanding of baking techniques and the science behind them, explore Cornell University’s Baking Science program for expert insights and practical tips.
Brown Butter Brownies
Ingredients
Butter (¾ cup or 170g unsalted butter)
- Brown butter is the star of this recipe. Browning the butter over medium heat enhances the flavor giving the brownies a nutty, caramel-like richness.
- Use unsalted butter to control the salt content.
Sugar
- 1 cup 200g granulated sugar – Helps create a crackly top by dissolving into the warm butter.
- ½ cup 100g light brown sugar – Adds moisture, chewiness, and a hint of molasses flavor.
Eggs (3 large eggs + 1 egg yolk)
- Eggs provide structure and help achieve the fudgy texture.
- An extra egg yolk adds richness and chewiness.
Vanilla Extract (2 teaspoons)
- Enhances the chocolate flavor and rounds out the buttery aroma.
Cocoa Powder (½ cup or 50g unsweetened cocoa powder)
- A key ingredient for deep chocolate flavor.
- Choose a good-quality unsweetened cocoa powder to enhance the chocolate flavor.
Espresso Powder (1 teaspoon, optional)
- Boosts the intensity of the chocolate without making the brownies taste like coffee.
- Can be omitted but highly recommended for extra depth.
Flour (¾ cup or 95g all-purpose flour)
- Just enough to hold everything together while keeping the brownies dense and fudgy.
- Avoid overmixing to prevent a cakier texture.
Salt (½ teaspoon)
- Balances the sweetness and enhances the rich cocoa notes.
Dark Chocolate Chips or Chopped Chocolate (½ cup or 85g)
- Melted into the batter for extra richness and chocolate intensity.
- Can also be folded in for gooey chocolate pockets in every bite.
Optional Toppings & Mix-Ins
- Flaky sea salt – Sprinkled on top for contrast.
- Chopped nuts walnuts, pecans, or almonds – Adds a crunchy texture.
- Caramel drizzle or peanut butter swirls – For an extra indulgent twist.
Equipment Needed
- Small saucepan – To brown the butter.
- Large mixing bowl – For combining ingredients.
- Whisk and spatula – For mixing.
- 8 x8-inch baking pan – To bake the brownies.
- Parchment paper – For easy removal.
Instructions
Step 1: Brown the Butter
- Melt the butter: Place your unsalted butter in a small saucepan over medium heat.
- Brown the butter: Stir the butter occasionally as it melts. After a couple of minutes, it will start to foam and sizzle. Keep stirring until the butter turns golden brown and develops a nutty aroma. You’ll see brown bits forming at the bottom of the pan. This is the milk solids caramelizing.
- Remove from heat: As soon as the butter reaches a rich golden brown color, take it off the heat to prevent burning. Let it cool for a few minutes.
Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients
- Combine sugars and eggs: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar, brown sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Add eggs: Add in the 3 eggs plus the extra egg yolk, one at a time, whisking well after each addition. This helps the brownies achieve a dense and fudgy texture.
- Add the browned butter: Once the butter has cooled slightly, pour it into the sugar and egg mixture. Whisk until everything is fully combined.
Step 3: Add the Dry Ingredients
- Sift the dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, sift together the unsweetened cocoa powder, all-purpose flour, and salt.
- Fold in the dry ingredients: Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture. Stir gently using a spatula or spoon to combine the ingredients without overworking the batter. The batter should be thick and slightly glossy.
Step 4: Add Chocolate Chips (Optional)
- Stir in chocolate chips: If you’re using chocolate chips or chopped dark chocolate, fold them into the batter. This will add extra chocolate pockets in the final brownies.
Step 5: Bake the Brownies
- Prepare the pan: Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper for easy removal.
- Pour in the batter: Spread the brownie batter evenly into the prepared pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.
- Bake: Place the pan in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 25-30 minutes. Check for doneness around 25 minutes by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out with a few moist crumbs, not wet batter. The brownies will continue to cook slightly after being removed from the oven.
Step 6: Cool and Serve
- Cool completely: Allow the brownies to cool in the pan for at least 30 minutes. For best results, let them cool completely before cutting into squares.
- Cut into squares: Once cool, lift the brownies out of the pan using the parchment paper, then cut into 16 squares or 9 larger pieces, depending on your preference.
- Optional toppings: If desired, sprinkle a pinch of flaky sea salt on top of each brownie for an extra burst of flavor.
Video
Notes
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30-35 minutes
- Total Time: 45-50 minutes
- Servings: 12 brownies (depending on size)
- Calories: 300-350 calories per serving (based on standard serving size)
FAQs
Here are some frequently asked questions about brown butter brownies to help clear up any doubts and ensure your baking experience is smooth and successful:
What happens if you use brown butter in brownies?
When you use brown butter in brownies, it infuses them with a rich, nutty flavor that enhances the overall taste. The browned butter adds a caramel-like depth, making the brownies more complex and giving them a slightly toasty, buttery taste. This creates a more flavorful base compared to regular butter, resulting in brownies that are richer and more indulgent.
How do you know when brownies are not done?
To check if your brownies are done, insert a toothpick or a cake tester into the center of the pan. If it comes out with moist crumbs or a little batter, the brownies need more time to bake. If the toothpick comes out with minimal crumbs or clean, the brownies are done. Keep in mind that brownies will continue to cook as they cool, so don’t wait for them to be completely dry when testing.
Is brown sugar good in brownies?
Yes, brown sugar is excellent for brownies! It adds a slight molasses flavor and contributes to the chewy texture. Using light brown sugar or dark brown sugar in your brownie recipe will enhance the sweetness and bring out a deeper, richer flavor, complementing the nutty undertones of brown butter.
Why do brownies crumble?
Brownies can crumble for several reasons:
Overbaking: If brownies are baked too long, they can dry out and become crumbly.
Too much flour: Adding too much flour can cause the brownies to be dry and not hold together properly.
Not enough fat: Fat from ingredients like butter or oil is essential for holding the texture together. If there’s not enough fat, the brownies can be too crumbly.
To avoid crumbling, make sure you follow the recipe’s ingredient measurements and don’t overbake your brownies.
Does brown butter make brownies taste better?
Yes, brown butter makes brownies taste better! The process of browning the butter enhances its natural flavors, creating a deep, toasty, and nutty taste that complements the sweetness of the chocolate. This adds a layer of richness and complexity to your brownies, making them far more flavorful than those made with regular butter.
What is the role of butter in brownies?
Butter plays an essential role in brownies, providing moisture, flavor, and texture. It helps create a rich, fudgy consistency, making the brownies dense and soft. The fat in butter also helps the chocolate and sugar blend together smoothly, enhancing the flavor of the finished product. When you use brown butter, it adds an additional layer of flavor with its nutty, caramelized notes, taking the brownies to the next level.
If you enjoyed learning about brown butter brownies, you might also be interested in our Sourdough Brownies, where we explore how incorporating sourdough starter adds a unique twist to traditional brownies.