Soft Fudge Brownies

Name: Soft Fudge Brownies
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 12 brownies
Ingredients: 1/2 cup unsalted butter; 1 cup granulated sugar; 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1/2 cup all-purpose flour; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon baking powder

Highlighted under: Cozy Baking Recipes

I absolutely adore making Soft Fudge Brownies whenever I need a quick sweet fix or a decadent dessert for guests. The joy of mixing rich cocoa with creamy butter fills my kitchen with an inviting aroma that’s hard to resist. These brownies are incredibly soft and fudgy, melting in your mouth and bringing a smile to everyone’s face. Plus, with just a few simple ingredients, I can whip up a batch in no time, making this treat a perfect go-to for any occasion.

Created by

Rebecca Mills

Last updated on 2026-02-15T06:25:35.679Z

When I first attempted to create the perfect brownie, I learned that the secret lies in balancing the cocoa with just the right amount of sugar and fat. It was a game-changer! Each trial brought me closer to a fudgy brownie that stays soft even after cooling. My secret is to underbake them slightly; this ensures that they maintain that gooey texture that everyone loves.

One time, I decided to add a pinch of sea salt on top before serving, and it elevated the flavor to a whole new level. Now, I never skip that step! Whether topped with nuts or served plain, these brownies always impress.

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Rich chocolate flavor paired with a buttery softness
Fudgy center that just melts in your mouth
Quick and easy to make — perfect for any gathering

The Science Behind Fudginess

The key to achieving that delightful fudgy texture lies in the ratio of fat to flour in this recipe. The unsalted butter not only adds richness but also contributes to the brownies’ moistness. By using only half a cup of flour, we ensure that the batter remains dense and chewy, rather than becoming cake-like. It's essential to avoid overmixing to keep those light, fudgy pockets intact; mix just until combined for the best results.

Another critical factor is the baking time. Unlike conventional brownies that require longer baking, this recipe calls for just 20-25 minutes in the oven. Take them out when the top looks set but remains soft—the toothpick test may reveal moist crumbs, affirming a rich fudge center. Remember, as they cool, they will firm up slightly, but pulling them out too soon can leave you with overly gooey brownies.

Ingredient Substitutions and Variations

If you're looking to experiment, consider swapping the granulated sugar for brown sugar. This will add a deeper, more caramel-like flavor and enhance the fudginess due to the moisture content in brown sugar. Alternatively, for a richer chocolate experience, you can mix in chocolate chips or chunks into the batter just before pouring it into the pan, creating pockets of melted chocolate that will ooze out when you cut into the brownies.

For a gluten-free version, you can substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend. Most blends will provide the same structure and moisture, and the difference in taste will be minimal. Additionally, for a dairy-free option, coconut oil can replace butter, but be sure to use a good quality cocoa powder that complements the flavors well.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients and let’s make some delicious brownies!

Brownie Ingredients

1/2 cup unsalted butter
1 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon baking powder

Now that you have everything ready, let’s get started on the steps!

Instructions

Follow these steps carefully to ensure perfect brownies.

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x9 inch baking pan.

Melt the Butter

In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Once melted, remove from the heat.

Mix Ingredients

Stir in sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract until combined. Then, add cocoa, flour, salt, and baking powder. Stir just until blended.

Pour into Pan

Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread it evenly.

Bake

Bake for 20-25 minutes. The top should look set, but a toothpick may come out with moist crumbs for that fudgy texture.

Cool and Serve

Let the brownies cool in the pan before cutting them into squares. Enjoy your delicious creation!

Now, enjoy your homemade Soft Fudge Brownies!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, try adding chocolate chips or nuts to the batter before baking. And remember, slightly underbaking is key for that soft texture!

Serving Suggestions

These Soft Fudge Brownies are versatile enough to serve in many ways. Warm them slightly in the microwave and top with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert. A drizzle of chocolate sauce or a sprinkle of sea salt will take the flavors to the next level, creating an exciting contrast to the chocolatey richness.

For a more rustic presentation, serve them straight from the baking pan with a dusting of powdered sugar. You can also plate them with fresh berries or a dollop of whipped cream to add freshness and a beautiful color contrast. Each of these additions complements the soft, fudgy texture beautifully, enhancing your dessert experience.

Storing and Freezing Brownies

Once cooled, you can store any leftover brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to four days. For longer storage, place them in the fridge, where they'll last about a week. Just be aware that chilling may alter the texture slightly, making them firmer. To enjoy again, simply let them come to room temperature before serving.

For freezing, wrap individual brownies tightly in plastic wrap and then foiled in a freezer-safe bag. This method will help maintain their moistness. They can be frozen for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy, thaw them in the fridge overnight before bringing them back to room temperature—this allows the fudgy texture to return while ensuring they taste fresh.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of flour?

Yes, you can try using gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version, though it may slightly alter the texture.

→ How should I store leftovers?

Store the brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

→ Can I freeze these brownies?

Absolutely! Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. They can last up to 3 months.

→ Can I add nuts or chocolate chips?

Definitely! Feel free to stir in 1/2 cup of walnuts, pecans, or chocolate chips for added texture and flavor.