Name: Brown Butter Brownies Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 1/2 sticks (170 grams) unsalted butter; 4 ounces (113 grams) semisweet chocolate, chopped; 1/2 cup (100 grams) granulated sugar; 1/2 cup (100 grams) light brown sugar; 3 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 cup (64 grams) all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup (43 grams) cocoa powder (preferably Dutch Process); 1/2 teaspoon instant espresso powder (optional); 1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt; 1 cup (170 grams) semisweet chocolate chips

Jump to Recipe· 3.8 from 72 reviews

If you’re on the hunt for a brownie that elevates the classic to pure decadence, then this Brown Butter Brownies Recipe is your new best friend. Imagine rich, fudgy brownies infused with the irresistibly nutty aroma of browned butter, complemented by glossy pockets of melted semisweet chocolate chips throughout every luscious bite. Each step of this recipe transforms simple pantry staples into a dessert that feels both sophisticated and deeply comforting—perfect for sharing with loved ones or indulging in a quiet moment of sweet bliss.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A close-up view inside a clear glass bowl shows a single smooth layer of chocolate batter being mixed. The batter is thick and creamy with a rich dark brown color, swirled in a circular pattern with visible texture marks and small air bubbles throughout. The bowl's rim is barely visible, holding the glossy chocolate mixture. The background surface is a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

These ingredients might seem straightforward, but each one plays a crucial role in creating that perfect balance of flavor, texture, and depth in your Brown Butter Brownies Recipe.

Unsalted butter (1 1/2 sticks / 170 grams): The star of the show when browned, bringing a nutty, rich base that makes these brownies stand apart.
Semisweet chocolate, chopped (4 ounces / 113 grams): Melts into the batter for warmth and velvety richness right after browning the butter.
Granulated sugar (1/2 cup / 100 grams): Adds sweetness and helps create that perfect fudgy texture.
Light brown sugar (1/2 cup / 100 grams): Provides moisture and a subtle caramel note that pairs beautifully with brown butter.
Large eggs (3): Bind everything together and add structure with their protein power.
Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Enhances all the flavors and adds a lovely aromatic touch.
All-purpose flour (1/2 cup / 64 grams): The backbone that lends just enough cakey support without overpowering the fudginess.
Cocoa powder, preferably Dutch Process (1/2 cup / 43 grams): Delivers deep chocolate intensity and a slight tang.
Instant espresso powder (1/2 teaspoon, optional): Amplifies the chocolate flavor without making the brownies taste like coffee.
Fine sea salt (1/2 teaspoon): Balances sweetness and enhances the complex notes of brown butter and chocolate.
Semisweet chocolate chips (1 cup / 170 grams): Melt in pockets throughout, adding bursts of chocolatey surprise with every bite.

How to Make Brown Butter Brownies Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and lining an 8-inch square metal pan with parchment paper. This not only prevents sticking but also makes removing the brownies from the pan a breeze once baked.

Step 2: Brown the Butter

In a small saucepan over medium-low heat, melt the unsalted butter, gently swirling the pan. As the butter melts, it will foam and make cracking and popping sounds—don’t worry, that’s the magic happening! Once the noise ceases, keep swirling for a few minutes until the butter releases a nutty aroma and beautiful brown bits form at the bottom. This is the heart of the Brown Butter Brownies Recipe, adding irresistible depth of flavor.

Step 3: Melt the Semisweet Chocolate

Remove the browned butter from heat and immediately stir in the chopped semisweet chocolate. The warm butter will melt the chocolate into a silky mixture that forms the rich base for your brownies.

Step 4: Whip the Sugars and Eggs

Using an electric mixer with the whisk attachment, beat the granulated sugar, light brown sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract on high speed until the mixture becomes thick, fluffy, and lighter in color—this can take about eight minutes. This step is essential for the airy texture that balances the fudginess in your brownies.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Slowly pour the warm brown butter and chocolate mixture into the whipped sugars and eggs, mixing on low speed to combine. Then, gently fold in the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, instant espresso powder (if using), and fine sea salt with a spatula until just combined. Finally, fold in the semisweet chocolate chips to create chocolate pockets throughout.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Pour the batter into your prepared pan and smooth the surface with a spatula. Bake in the oven for 22 to 25 minutes, or until the brownies are set but still fudgy in the center. Overbaking can dry them out, so keep a careful eye. Let them cool completely in the pan before slicing to achieve those perfect squares.

How to Serve Brown Butter Brownies Recipe

This image shows six chocolate brownies with a cracked, shiny, and slightly wrinkled dark brown top layer, arranged in a rough 2x3 grid on a white marbled surface. Each brownie is square-shaped, with the edges looking slightly raised and thicker than the center. The inside layers visible on the cut sides are dense and moist with a deep, rich brown color. The brownies have some chocolate crumbs scattered around the edges, adding texture contrast. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

These brownies are lovely on their own, but if you want to jazz them up for a special occasion, consider sprinkling flaky sea salt on top just before serving for a salty-sweet contrast. A light dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of caramel sauce also pairs beautifully with the nutty brown butter flavor.

Side Dishes

Serve warm brownies with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream for a classic combo that never disappoints. Fresh berries or a dollop of whipped cream can also brighten the richness and add a fresh element.

Creative Ways to Present

Try cutting the brownies into bite-sized squares and stacking them in a rustic wooden tray with parchment for a charming, casual display. For a party, skewering small brownie bites with fresh strawberries or marshmallows adds a fun twist to dessert presentation that gets everyone excited.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover brownies will stay moist and delicious in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. For longer enjoyment, storing them in the refrigerator extends their freshness for about four days—just bring them to room temperature or warm briefly before serving.

Freezing

If you want to keep these brownies for an even longer period, they freeze wonderfully. Wrap individual brownie squares tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag. They can be frozen for up to three months without losing their signature fudgy texture.

Reheating

To bring frozen or refrigerated brownies back to life, microwave them gently in 10 to 15-second bursts until warm but not melted. You can also reheat in a low oven (about 300 degrees Fahrenheit) for 5 to 7 minutes to restore that just-baked softness.

FAQs

What makes brown butter so special in this brownie recipe?

Brown butter adds a deep, nutty flavor that’s impossible to replicate with regular melted butter. The toasty aroma infuses the brownies with warmth and complexity, transforming them from ordinary to unforgettable.

Can I use regular cocoa powder instead of Dutch Process?

Yes, you can substitute regular cocoa powder. Just keep in mind that Dutch Process cocoa has a smoother, less acidic taste that complements the brown butter’s nuttiness beautifully, but regular cocoa will still produce a tasty result.

Is the espresso powder necessary?

Espresso powder is optional but highly recommended because it intensifies the chocolate flavor without adding any coffee taste. It’s a little secret ingredient that enhances the richness.

Can I make these brownies gluten-free?

Absolutely! Swap the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that measures cup for cup. The brownies will stay fudgy and delicious, perfectly suitable for gluten-sensitive friends.

How do I know when the brownies are done?

Look for brownies that are set around the edges and in the center but still slightly soft when you gently press. A toothpick inserted will come out with a few moist crumbs but not wet batter. Slight underbaking ensures that perfect fudgy texture.

Final Thoughts

This Brown Butter Brownies Recipe truly raises the bar for homemade brownies, making it a must-try for any chocolate lover. The mix of nutty, rich brown butter and melty chocolate chips creates a texture and flavor that’s downright addictive. Once you make them, these brownies are bound to become a beloved classic in your dessert repertoire, guaranteed to delight family and friends alike. So grab your ingredients and dive into the magic of baking something extraordinary!