Get ready to embark on a journey of pure indulgence with our recipe for Chocolate Walnut Brownies. If you're a fan of rich, gooey chocolate and the satisfying crunch of walnuts, these delectable treats are an absolute must-try. From their irresistible aroma to their fudgy texture, these brownies are the epitome of dessert heaven. Join us as we dive into the world of chocolatey goodness and discover how to create the perfect batch of Chocolate Walnut Brownies that will leave you craving more.
A Chocolate Lover's Dream
Calling all chocolate enthusiasts! Our Chocolate Walnut Brownies are a dream come true. Imagine sinking your teeth into a decadent square of pure bliss, where every bite melts in your mouth and releases an explosion of cocoa goodness. These brownies boast a perfect balance of rich chocolate flavor and the delightful crunch of toasted walnuts, creating a symphony of textures that will leave you in awe. Whether you're enjoying them as an afternoon pick-me-up or as a dessert to cap off a memorable meal, these brownies are sure to satisfy even the most discerning chocolate lover.
The Art of Baking Perfect Brownies
Creating the ultimate batch of Chocolate Walnut Brownies is an art form. It begins with selecting high-quality chocolate and combining it with the finest ingredients. We'll guide you through each step of the process, from melting the chocolate to achieving the ideal fudgy consistency. With our tried-and-tested tips and tricks, you'll learn how to bake brownies that are moist, dense, and brimming with rich chocolatey goodness. Whether you're an experienced baker or a novice in the kitchen, our recipe is easy to follow, ensuring that you'll achieve outstanding results every time.
Versatile and Customizable
One of the great things about Chocolate Walnut Brownies is their versatility. While they shine on their own, you can also elevate them to new heights by adding a scoop of vanilla ice cream, a drizzle of warm chocolate sauce, or a sprinkle of powdered sugar. For those feeling adventurous, feel free to experiment with different variations like adding a pinch of sea salt or incorporating chunks of your favorite chocolate bar. These brownies are also perfect for gifting or sharing on special occasions. Wrap them up beautifully and watch as they bring smiles and delight to those lucky enough to indulge.
This was inspired by my other recipe on this site, and pairs well with this amazing sidedish recipe.
Prep time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 22-26 minutes
Yields 12-16 brownies
Jump to:
- A Chocolate Lover's Dream
- The Art of Baking Perfect Brownies
- Versatile and Customizable
- Ingredients needed to make Chocolate Walnut Brownies
- How to make Chocolate Walnut Brownies
- Variations on the Chocolate Walnut Brownies recipe
- Storage for the Chocolate Walnut Brownies
- Top tips for making Chocolate Walnut Brownies
- Related
- Pairing
- How to make some Chocolate Walnut Brownies
Ingredients needed to make Chocolate Walnut Brownies
Brownie Ingredients:
- Non-stick cooking spray
1 c. unsalted butter - 2 c. granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 2 t. real vanilla extract
- 1 c. all-purpose flour
- 1 c. ground cocoa powder, sweetened
- ¼ t. salt
- 1 c. semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 c. chopped walnuts
- Frosting Ingredients:
- ½ c. unsalted butter
- ⅓ c. cocoa powder, unsweetened
- 1-1½ c. powdered sugar
- 2-3 T. whole milk
How to make Chocolate Walnut Brownies
- Place the top oven rack in the center position and pre-heat the oven to 350°F. Line an 8x8-inch baking pan with parchment paper and spray with non-stick cooking spray. Set aside.
- Cream the butter and sugar in a large mixing bowl. Add the eggs and vanilla and mix until combined.
- Add the flour, cocoa powder, and salt to a large bowl and stir to combine. Slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet until just combined. (Do not over mix or the brownies will turn out “cakey”).
- Stir the chocolate chips and walnuts into the batter and transfer to the prepared baking pan. Spread into an even layer and transfer to the pre-heated oven.
- Bake for 22-26 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Brownies will still be soft and will finish setting while they cool.
- To prepare the frosting, mix the butter with the cocoa powder and 1 cup powdered sugar. Add in one tablespoon of milk at a time until desired consistency is reached. If necessary, add the remaining ½ cup powdered sugar to thicken.
- Once cool, spread frosting on top of the brownies before slicing and serving. Enjoy!
Variations on the Chocolate Walnut Brownies recipe
There are numerous variations you can try with the classic Chocolate Walnut Brownies recipe to add different flavors and textures. Here are some ideas:
- Salted Caramel Walnut Brownies: Swirl some salted caramel sauce into the brownie batter before baking. Top the brownies with a sprinkle of sea salt and toasted walnuts for a delightful sweet and salty combination.
- Raspberry Walnut Brownies: Add fresh or frozen raspberries to the brownie batter and fold in chopped walnuts. The tartness of the raspberries complements the richness of the chocolate.
- Mint Chocolate Walnut Brownies: Incorporate mint extract or finely chopped fresh mint leaves into the brownie batter. Add a layer of melted chocolate mixed with crushed peppermint candies on top for a refreshing twist.
- Orange Chocolate Walnut Brownies: Zest an orange and add it to the brownie batter along with the walnuts. The citrus flavor pairs beautifully with the chocolate. Optionally, drizzle an orange glaze made with orange juice and powdered sugar on top after baking.
- Nutella Walnut Brownies: Swirl Nutella into the brownie batter before baking to infuse it with the hazelnut-chocolate goodness. Sprinkle chopped walnuts on top for extra crunch.
- S'mores Walnut Brownies: Layer crushed graham crackers and mini marshmallows between the brownie batter in the baking dish. Top with additional marshmallows and broil for a few seconds to achieve a toasted marshmallow topping.
- Peanut Butter Swirl Walnut Brownies: Drop spoonfuls of peanut butter onto the brownie batter and use a toothpick or a knife to create a marbled effect. Sprinkle chopped walnuts on top before baking.
- Coconut Chocolate Walnut Brownies: Fold shredded coconut into the brownie batter along with the walnuts. You can also sprinkle some toasted coconut on top for added texture.
- Espresso Chocolate Walnut Brownies: Dissolve instant espresso powder in hot water and add it to the brownie batter. The espresso enhances the chocolate flavor and creates a delicious mocha twist.
Feel free to mix and match these variations or get creative with your own combinations. Adjust the quantities of additional ingredients to your taste preference, and enjoy experimenting with different flavors to customize your Chocolate Walnut Brownies.
Storage for the Chocolate Walnut Brownies
When stored properly, Chocolate Walnut Brownies can typically be kept in the refrigerator for up to 5-7 days. Here are some guidelines for storing brownies in the fridge:
- Allow the brownies to cool completely: Before storing the brownies, make sure they have cooled down to room temperature. This helps prevent condensation from forming inside the storage container, which can make the brownies soggy.
- Wrap tightly or use an airtight container: To maintain freshness and prevent the brownies from drying out, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or place them in an airtight container. Ensure there is minimal air exposure to the brownies to prevent them from absorbing any unwanted flavors from the fridge.
- Consider layering and separating: If you are stacking multiple layers of brownies in a container, it's a good idea to place parchment paper or wax paper between the layers to prevent sticking.
- Store in the refrigerator: Place the wrapped or containerized brownies in the refrigerator. The cool temperature helps to extend their shelf life.
- Allow them to come to room temperature before serving: When you're ready to enjoy the brownies, take them out of the fridge and allow them to come to room temperature before serving. This allows the texture to soften and the flavors to develop fully.
It's worth noting that refrigeration can alter the texture of brownies slightly, making them denser. If you prefer a softer and fudgier texture, you can choose to store them at room temperature in an airtight container for 2-3 days instead. However, in warmer climates or during hot weather, refrigeration can help prevent the brownies from spoiling.
Always use your best judgment and check for any signs of spoilage, such as mold or off odors, before consuming refrigerated brownies
Top tips for making Chocolate Walnut Brownies
Here are some top tips to help you make delicious Chocolate Walnut Brownies:
- Use high-quality ingredients: The quality of your ingredients can significantly impact the taste and texture of your brownies. Choose good-quality cocoa powder, dark chocolate, and fresh walnuts for the best results.
- Measure ingredients accurately: Baking is a science, so it's crucial to measure your ingredients accurately. Use a kitchen scale or measuring cups and spoons to ensure you have the right proportions.
- Don't overmix the batter: When combining the wet and dry ingredients, mix them just until they are incorporated. Overmixing can lead to a denser texture in your brownies.
- Melt chocolate and butter gently: When melting the chocolate and butter, do it slowly and gently to prevent scorching. You can use a double boiler or microwave them in short bursts, stirring in between, until they are melted and smooth.
- Use the right pan size: Use the recommended pan size mentioned in the recipe. Using a smaller pan will result in thicker brownies, and a larger pan may lead to thinner brownies that can overbake.
- Line the baking pan with parchment paper: Line your baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang on the sides. This makes it easier to remove the brownies from the pan and helps prevent sticking.
- Add walnuts for texture and flavor: Chop the walnuts into small pieces before adding them to the batter. The walnuts provide a delightful crunch and complement the chocolate flavor.
- Don't overbake: Brownies are best when they are fudgy and moist. Be careful not to overbake them, as they can become dry and lose their soft texture. Start checking for doneness a few minutes before the recommended baking time and remove them from the oven when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs clinging to it.
- Let them cool before cutting: Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan before cutting them. This helps them set properly and makes it easier to cut neat squares.
- Optional: Add a sprinkle of flaky sea salt: For a touch of sophistication and flavor contrast, sprinkle a bit of flaky sea salt on top of the brownies before baking or right after they come out of the oven. The salt enhances the chocolate flavor.
Remember, baking is an art, and it may take some practice to perfect your brownie recipe. Don't be afraid to experiment with variations and make adjustments based on your personal preferences. Enjoy the process and savor the delicious results!
Related
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Pairing
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How to make some Chocolate Walnut Brownies
- Total Time: 0 hours
- Yield: 16 servings
Description
Chocolate Walnut Brownies are widely loved and enjoyed by many people. They are known for their rich, fudgy texture, intense chocolate flavor, and added crunch and nuttiness from the walnuts. The combination of chocolate and walnuts creates a delicious and satisfying treat for chocolate lovers.
Ingredients
Non-stick cooking spray
1 c. unsalted butter
2 c. granulated sugar
4 large eggs
2 t. real vanilla extract
1 c. all-purpose flour
1 c. ground cocoa powder, sweetened
¼ t. salt
1 c. semi-sweet chocolate chips
1 c. chopped walnuts
Frosting Ingredients:
½ c. unsalted butter
⅓ c. cocoa powder, unsweetened
1-1½ c. powdered sugar
2-3 T. whole milk
Instructions
-
Place the top oven rack in the center position and pre-heat the oven to 350°F. Line an 8x8-inch baking pan with parchment paper and spray with non-stick cooking spray. Set aside.
-
Cream the butter and sugar in a large mixing bowl. Add the eggs and vanilla and mix until combined.
-
Add the flour, cocoa powder, and salt to a large bowl and stir to combine. Slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet until just combined. (Do not over mix or the brownies will turn out “cakey”).
-
Stir the chocolate chips and walnuts into the batter and transfer to the prepared baking pan. Spread into an even layer and transfer to the pre-heated oven.
-
Bake for 22-26 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Brownies will still be soft and will finish setting while they cool.
-
To prepare the frosting, mix the butter with the cocoa powder and 1 cup powdered sugar. Add in one tablespoon of milk at a time until desired consistency is reached. If necessary, add the remaining ½ cup powdered sugar to thicken.
-
Once cool, spread frosting on top of the brownies before slicing and serving. Enjoy!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
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