Brownie

Chocolate Brownie - A Fluffy and Aromatic Delight

If you are among the chocolate lovers or simply want to treat your family to a delicious dessert, the brownie is the perfect choice. This chocolate cake recipe is simple, quick, and offers a fluffy texture combined with an intensity of chocolate that will delight your senses. Moreover, it can be prepared in just a few steps, allowing you to spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying the treat with your loved ones.

Total preparation time: 1 hour
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 30-40 minutes
Number of servings: 12

Necessary ingredients

For the cake:
- 100 g butter (make sure it is at room temperature for easier mixing)
- 200 g sugar (preferably fine sugar for a smoother texture)
- 150 g dark chocolate (quality chocolate will make a difference in taste)
- 2 eggs (at room temperature for even incorporation)
- 250 ml liquid cream (you can also use cream with a higher fat percentage for a richer flavor)
- 250 ml milk (whole milk will add creaminess)
- 280 g flour (regular wheat flour is perfect, but you can also experiment with whole wheat flour for a healthier option)
- 1 packet of baking powder (make sure it is fresh for a fluffy texture)

For the glaze:
- 100 g dark chocolate (make sure it is quality)
- 50 g butter
- 50 ml liquid cream

Preparing the cake

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by gathering all the ingredients on the work surface. Make sure the butter is soft and the eggs are at room temperature. This will facilitate mixing.

2. Beating the butter with sugar: In a large bowl, add the butter and sugar. Use an electric mixer to beat them together until you achieve a creamy and fluffy mixture. This step is essential for introducing air into the mixture, which will make the cake fluffier.

3. Melting the chocolate: In the meantime, melt the dark chocolate in the microwave. I recommend doing it in 20-30 second intervals, stirring in between to avoid burning. Once the chocolate is completely melted, add it to the butter and sugar mixture.

4. Incorporating the eggs: Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. This step is important for ensuring good emulsification between the ingredients. The egg helps bind the mixture and create a fine texture.

5. Adding the liquid ingredients: Next, add the liquid cream and milk. Mix until well combined. The cream will give it a rich taste and a creamy texture.

6. Incorporating the flour and baking powder: Sift the flour and baking powder together into the wet mixture. Use a spatula or a wooden spoon to gently mix, avoiding over-mixing. It is important not to develop the gluten so that the cake remains soft.

7. Preparing the baking pan: Line a 25x30 cm pan with parchment paper. If desired, you can grease the paper with a little butter to prevent the cake from sticking. Pour the mixture into the pan and level the surface with a spatula.

8. Baking: Preheat the oven to 180°C (medium heat). Place the pan in the oven and bake the cake for 30-40 minutes. Check the cake using the toothpick test: if it comes out clean, the cake is done. Let the cake cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Preparing the glaze

1. Melting the chocolate for the glaze: In a bowl, melt the dark chocolate together with the butter and liquid cream, either in the microwave or in a double boiler. Mix well until you achieve a smooth, shiny mixture.

2. Glazing the cake: Once the cake has completely cooled, pour the glaze evenly over the top. You can use a spatula to spread it evenly.

3. Cooling the glaze: Let the cake sit at room temperature until the glaze hardens. This will add an extra layer of flavor and make the cake more visually appealing.

Serving the cake

The brownie is delicious served plain, but you can enhance it with some creative suggestions. Place a few slices of cake on plates and decorate them with fresh berries or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. A vanilla pod or a caramel sauce can add a special touch. This cake pairs wonderfully with a cup of coffee or a fragrant tea, making it perfect for a relaxing afternoon.

Tips and useful advice

- Storage: The brownie keeps well at room temperature, covered with plastic wrap, for 3-4 days. You can also freeze it for a quick treat on days when you crave something sweet.
- Variations: You can add nuts or hazelnuts to the mixture for an extra crunch and flavor. You can also experiment with white chocolate in the glaze for a contrasting taste.

Nutritional benefits

This chocolate brownie, rich in chocolate, provides a considerable dose of antioxidants due to the dark chocolate. Additionally, the eggs and milk provide protein, while the butter offers essential healthy fats. However, it is best enjoyed in moderation, as it contains a significant amount of sugar and fats.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate?
- Sure! However, keep in mind that the cake will taste sweeter.

2. What should I do if I don't have liquid cream?
- You can substitute the cream with Greek yogurt or cooking sour cream, but the result will be slightly different.

3. How do I know if the cake is baked?
- The toothpick test is the safest. If the toothpick comes out clean, the cake is done!

So, don't hesitate any longer! Put on your apron and let's prepare a delicious brownie together that will surely become your favorite. With each slice, you'll feel the warmth and love of home cooking. Enjoy!