Chocolate cake

Chocolate Brownie – A Delicious Treat Easy to Prepare

It is said that chocolate desserts bring us the most smiles, and chocolate brownies are certainly one of the most beloved. This brownie recipe is simple yet full of flavor, and it will provide you with sweet joy in every bite. Perfect for special occasions or simply to satisfy a sweet craving, this brownie can quickly become a family favorite.

Total preparation time: 60 minutes
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 30-35 minutes
Number of servings: 12

Ingredients:
- 3 eggs
- 130 g butter (ideally with 80% fat, but you can also use 65% fat butter)
- 100 g cocoa powder (preferably high-quality chocolate)
- 150 g flour
- 150 g sugar
- 50 g cocoa
- 2 tablespoons of sour cream
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- Vanilla sugar (optional, for extra flavor)
- A pinch of salt

The History of Chocolate Brownies:
Chocolate brownies, a dessert that has won the hearts of many generations, have deep roots in pastry traditions. This cake is often associated with moments of conviviality, perfect for gatherings with friends or family movie nights. Its moist texture and intense chocolate flavor make it an essential dessert on any sweet lover's menu.

Preparation Steps:

1. Preparing the Ingredients:
Start by taking the butter out of the fridge about 30 minutes before you begin cooking, so it reaches room temperature. This will help achieve a fluffier cream.

2. Beating the Butter and Sugar:
In a large bowl, add the soft butter and sugar. Using a mixer, beat until the mixture becomes fluffy and the sugar is completely dissolved. This step is essential to ensure an airy texture for the brownies.

3. Adding the Egg Yolks:
Separately, crack the eggs and separate the egg whites from the yolks. Add one yolk at a time to the butter cream, mixing well after each addition. This will help create a rich emulsion.

4. Incorporating the Dry Ingredients:
In another bowl, mix the flour, cocoa, baking powder, and a little salt. Sift the mixture to avoid lumps. Add the flour mixture to the butter cream, gently folding with a spatula.

5. Adding the Sour Cream:
Incorporate the sour cream, which will add extra moisture and a creamy taste to the cake.

6. Beating the Egg Whites:
In another clean bowl, beat the egg whites until they form stiff peaks. This step is crucial for adding volume and airiness to the brownies.

7. Combining the Mixtures:
Add half of the egg whites to the chocolate mixture, gently folding to avoid losing air. Then, add the remaining egg whites and continue to mix carefully, using a spatula, from the bottom up.

8. Preparing the Baking Pan:
Preheat the oven to 180°C. Line an 18x26 cm baking pan with parchment paper. Pour the batter into the pan, leveling it evenly.

9. Baking:
Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes. Perform the toothpick test: if it comes out clean, the brownies are ready. If not, let them bake for another 5 minutes.

10. Cooling and Slicing:
Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. Cut into squares and, if desired, add frosting.

Frosting (optional):
If you want to add a layer of chocolate, melt 100 g of dark chocolate with 80 ml of liquid cream. Let it cool slightly before pouring it over each brownie square.

Frequently Asked Questions:

1. Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate?
Yes, using milk chocolate will make the brownies sweeter and creamier, but it will slightly change the intense flavor of dark chocolate.

2. How can I keep the brownies fresh?
Store the brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for 2-3 days or in the fridge for a week. You can also freeze them for later use.

3. Is this recipe suitable for vegans?
For a vegan version, you can replace the eggs with banana puree or a mixture of flaxseeds and water (1 tablespoon of flaxseeds + 2.5 tablespoons of water = 1 egg).

Serving Suggestions and Combinations:
Chocolate brownies pair perfectly with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. Additionally, a caramel sauce over the cake can add a decadent touch. Serve it alongside a cup of freshly brewed coffee or a fragrant tea for a delightful culinary experience.

Nutritional Benefits:
These brownies provide a good dose of energy from chocolate, which contains antioxidants. The butter adds healthy fats, and the eggs are an excellent source of protein. However, it is important to consume in moderation, considering the sugar and calorie content.

Personalized Variation:
If you want to add a touch of originality, try adding chopped nuts or chocolate chips to the brownie batter. These will add a crunchy texture and extra flavor.

This chocolate brownie recipe will surely quickly become one of your favorites, thanks to its simplicity, speed, and delicious result. Enjoy every moment spent cooking and, of course, savoring each slice of brownie!