Brown Butter Brownies
Brown Butter Brownies are a decadent treat that combines rich flavors with a perfectly fudgy texture. The nutty aroma of brown butter elevates these brownies to a new level, making them a standout dessert. From the moment you take a bite, the taste of deep cocoa mingling with the warmth of toasty butter takes over your senses. As these brownies bake, your kitchen will be filled with an irresistible scent, tempting everyone to gather around and sample the deliciousness that awaits.
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I first stumbled upon the brown butter technique while trying to make a classic brownie recipe. The idea of using browned butter was intriguing, and I couldn’t help but give it a shot. The result? A batch of brownies that were so incredibly scrumptious that I felt proud to share them with family and friends. If you’re ready to indulge your chocolate cravings and want to impress guests with a simple yet elegant dessert, these brownies are simply unbeatable. Trust me, once you try these Brown Butter Brownies, you’ll be tempted to make them over and over again!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple & Quick: Made in less than 70 minutes, including prep and bake time, for a fast satisfying treat.
- Irresistible Flavor: The combination of brown butter and chocolate creates a flavor explosion that you won’t forget.
- Eye-Catching Appeal: Their glossy top and rich cocoa color make these brownies perfect for sharing or showing off at gatherings.
- Flexible Serving: Great for dessert, an afternoon snack, or even breakfast when you need something sweet!
- Diet-Friendly Options: Easily adaptable; can be made gluten-free with a one-to-one flour substitute.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 cup Unsalted butter: Adds richness and is used for browning, which enhances the flavor of the brownies.
- 3 TBSP Dry milk powder: This ingredient helps create a fudgy texture and contributes to a more intense chocolate flavor.
- 1 cup Unsweetened cocoa powder (sifted): Provides the deep, chocolatey base for your brownies. Sifting prevents clumping.
- 3/4 cup All-purpose flour: Helps bind the brownies and gives them structure, keeping them rich without being too cake-like.
- 1 TBSP Cornstarch: This ingredient adds to the softness, creating that melt-in-your-mouth quality.
- 1 tsp Salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the chocolate flavor.
- 1 cup White granulated sugar: Sweetens the brownies while maintaining a chewy texture.
- 3/4 cup Powdered sugar: Introduces a subtle sweetness and helps create a glossy top crust.
- 3 Large eggs (room temperature): Binds the ingredients, adding moisture while aiding in the rise.
- 1 Egg yolk (room temperature): Makes the brownies extra tender and rich.
- 2 TBSP Oil (canola or vegetable): Enhances moisture without weighing the brownies down.
- 1 tsp Pure vanilla extract: Adds a layer of flavor that complements chocolate beautifully.
- 1 cup Semi-sweet chocolate chips: Melts into the batter for gooey chocolate pockets in every bite.
How to Make Brown Butter Brownies
Brown the Butter: In a medium saucepan, melt 1 cup of unsalted butter over medium heat. Stir occasionally until the butter turns golden brown and develops a nutty aroma, approximately 5-7 minutes. Keep a close eye to prevent burning. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
Mix Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together 1 cup of unsweetened cocoa powder, 3/4 cup of all-purpose flour, 3 TBSP of dry milk powder, 1 TBSP of cornstarch, and 1 tsp of salt until well combined.
Combine Sugars: In a large bowl, combine the browned butter, 1 cup of white granulated sugar, and 3/4 cup of powdered sugar. Mix until smooth.
Add Eggs: Add 3 large eggs and 1 egg yolk to the butter-sugar mixture, incorporating them one at a time, followed by 2 TBSP of oil and 1 tsp of pure vanilla extract. Mix well until everything is combined and glossy.
Incorporate Dry Ingredients: Gently fold in the dry ingredients with a spatula until just combined. Be careful not to over-mix; a few lumps are okay.
Stir in Chocolate Chips: Fold in 1 cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips to the brownie batter for added gooey texture and flavor.
Prepare the Baking Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easier removal.
Bake the Brownies: Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the edges are firm and the center is set but still slightly moist. A toothpick inserted in the center should have some moist crumbs but not wet batter.
Cool and Serve: Remove from the oven and let the brownies cool in the pan for at least 15 minutes. Cut into squares and serve warm, or allow them to cool completely for a firmer texture.
Storing & Reheating
To keep your brownies fresh, store them at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 3 days. If you want to extend their shelf life, refrigerate them in a sealed container for up to a week. You can also freeze the brownies for up to three months; wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then foil to prevent freezer burn. To reheat, pop them in a microwave for 15-20 seconds. Just keep in mind that refrigeration may alter the texture slightly, so warming them up brings back that fudgy feel.
Chef’s Helpful Tips
- Avoid over-mixing the batter once you’ve added the dry ingredients, as this can lead to tough brownies.
- Make sure your eggs are at room temperature to ensure they incorporate more easily, resulting in a better texture.
- If you prefer a more intense flavor, consider swapping half the all-purpose flour for almond flour for a unique taste.
- Check for doneness at the lower end of the baking time; it’s better to underbake slightly for fudgy brownies.
- Feel free to add nuts or swirl in some peanut butter or caramel for an exciting twist!
These Brown Butter Brownies are not just another dessert; they are a sweet solution to your chocolate cravings. Their rich flavor and fudgy texture make them a delightful treat for any occasion. Whether you’re bringing them to a gathering or simply enjoying them at home, these brownies will surely become a beloved recipe in your collection. Don’t hesitate to try out different variations and toppings to make them uniquely yours! Enjoy every gooey bite of these heavenly brownies.

Recipe FAQs
Can I make these brownies gluten-free?
Absolutely! Simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Ensure that your baking powder also complies with gluten-free standards for best results.
How can I make these brownies less sweet?
If you prefer a less sweet brownie, consider reducing the powdered sugar to 1/2 cup or using dark chocolate chips. This will maintain the brownie texture while balancing the sweetness.
Can these brownies be made ahead of time?
Yes! You can make the brownies up to three days in advance. Simply store them covered at room temperature, or freeze them for up to three months. Reheat as needed for the best experience.
What’s the best way to cut brownies?
For neat slices, use a sharp knife, and clean it between cuts with a damp cloth to keep the edges tidy. If the brownies are warm, they may be softer, so allow them to cool for easier cutting.
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📖 Recipe Card

Brown Butter Brownies
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 16 servings 1x
- Category: Brownies
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Brown Butter Brownies boast a rich, nutty flavor with a fudgy texture, made from simple ingredients like butter, cocoa, and eggs. Perfect for a sweet treat!
Ingredients
- 1 cup Unsalted butter
- 3 TBSP Dry milk powder
- 1 cup Unsweetened cocoa powder (sifted)
- 3/4 cup All-purpose flour
- 1 TBSP Cornstarch
- 1 tsp Salt
- 1 cup White granulated sugar
- 3/4 cup Powdered sugar
- 3 Large eggs (room temperature)
- 1 Egg yolk (room temperature)
- 2 TBSP Oil (canola or vegetable)
- 1 tsp Pure vanilla extract
- 1 cup Semi-sweet chocolate chips
Instructions
- Melt unsalted butter in a frying pan over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it starts foaming. Add dry milk powder and stir until the butter turns amber in color.
- Add sifted cocoa powder to the mixture and heat for another 30 seconds. Pour the butter mixture into a bowl and chill in the freezer for 15 minutes.
- Preheat the oven to 350℉. Prepare a 9X9 inch square pan with nonstick spray and line with parchment paper.
- In a separate bowl, mix together the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, and salt. Set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat together white granulated sugar, powdered sugar, large eggs, and egg yolk using a mixer on high speed for 3 minutes.
- Add cooled butter, oil, and vanilla extract to the mixture, then mix with a spatula. Gradually fold in the dry ingredients and chocolate chips.
- Pour the brownie batter into the prepared pan and bake for 34-36 minutes until the edges are set and the center is slightly underbaked. It will finish cooking as it cools.
- Let the brownies cool in the pan on a rack before removing and cutting into 16 squares.
Notes
For a richer flavor, make sure the butter is browned properly before adding the other ingredients.
Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
You can use dark chocolate chips for a more intense chocolate flavor.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 Brownie
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 21g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 13g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
