Crack-Top Fudgy Brownies are rich, dense brownies with a delightful crackly top that gives way to a fudgy interior. These brownies are perfect for chocolate lovers and make a great dessert or snack for any occasion.

Ingredients

• 1 cup unsalted butter (2 sticks)
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 4 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 cup chocolate chips (optional, for extra fudginess)

Timing

Making Crack-Top Fudgy Brownies takes about 15 minutes for preparation and 25-30 minutes for baking.

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat Oven

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.

Step 2: Melt Butter and Mix Ingredients

1. Melt Butter: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Once melted, remove from heat and allow it to cool slightly.
2. Add Sugar: Stir in the granulated sugar until well combined.
3. Add Eggs and Vanilla: Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

1. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, salt, and baking powder.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

1. Combine Mixtures: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
2. Add Chocolate Chips: If using, fold in the chocolate chips for extra fudginess.

Step 5: Bake

1. Pour Batter: Pour the brownie batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly.
2. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs (not wet batter).

Step 6: Cool and Serve

1. Cool: Allow the brownies to cool in the pan on a wire rack for about 10-15 minutes before slicing into squares.
2. Serve: Serve warm or at room temperature. These brownies are delicious on their own or served with a scoop of ice cream!

Nutritional Information

Here’s a quick overview of the nutritional content of Crack-Top Fudgy Brownies (per brownie, based on 16 servings):

Nutrient	Amount per Serving
Calories	250
Protein	3g
Fat	12g
Carbohydrates	35g
Fiber	2g
Sugar	20g

Tips for Customization

• Add Nuts: Incorporate chopped walnuts or pecans for added texture and flavor.
• Flavor Variations: Experiment with different extracts, such as almond or mint, for a unique twist.
• Swirl in Peanut Butter: For a delicious variation, swirl in some peanut butter or Nutella before baking.

Conclusion

Crack-Top Fudgy Brownies are a decadent treat that combines a rich, fudgy interior with a crackly top. They are easy to make and perfect for satisfying your chocolate cravings. Enjoy this delightful recipe!