Introduction
There’s nothing quite like biting into a rich, fudgy chocolate brownie that melts in your mouth. And when it comes to brownie recipes, Jamie Oliver’s version is a standout. Known for his straightforward, delicious recipes, Jamie’s chocolate brownies are an absolute treat. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner, this guide will walk you through the steps to create these mouthwatering delights in your own kitchen. Get ready to bake the best brownies you’ve ever tasted!
Ingredients
- For the Brownies:
- 200g dark chocolate (70% cocoa solids)
- 250g unsalted butter, cubed
- 80g cocoa powder, sifted
- 65g plain flour, sifted
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 360g caster sugar
- 4 large free-range eggs
- For Extra Flavor (Optional):
- 100g chopped nuts (walnuts, pecans, or hazelnuts)
- 100g white chocolate chunks
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- A pinch of sea salt
Directions
1. Prepare the Ingredients
- Preheat your oven to 180°C/350°F (160°C fan). Grease a 20x20cm baking tin and line it with parchment paper.
- Break the dark chocolate into pieces and place it in a heatproof bowl along with the butter. Melt over a saucepan of simmering water, stirring occasionally until smooth. Remove from the heat and allow to cool slightly.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients
- In a large bowl, combine the sifted cocoa powder, plain flour, and baking powder. Stir in the caster sugar.
3. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
- Beat the eggs in a separate bowl until light and fluffy.
- Gradually pour the melted chocolate and butter mixture into the eggs, stirring continuously to combine.
- Slowly fold in the dry ingredients until just mixed. Be careful not to overmix.
4. Add Extra Flavors (Optional)
- Gently fold in the chopped nuts, white chocolate chunks, vanilla extract, and a pinch of sea salt if using. These add-ins will elevate the flavor and texture of your brownies.
5. Bake the Brownies
- Pour the brownie batter into the prepared baking tin, spreading it out evenly.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes. The brownies should be set on the outside but still slightly gooey in the center. To check, insert a skewer into the center – it should come out with a few moist crumbs attached.
6. Cool and Serve
- Allow the brownies to cool in the tin for at least 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Once cooled, slice into squares and serve. Enjoy them on their own, or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent treat!
Helpful Tips
- Don’t Overbake: For the perfect fudgy texture, it’s crucial not to overbake your brownies. Keep a close eye on them in the last few minutes.
- Room Temperature Eggs: Using room temperature eggs helps the ingredients combine better, leading to a smoother batter.
- Cooling Time: Allowing the brownies to cool completely before cutting ensures cleaner slices and helps them set properly.
Substitutions/Variations
- Gluten-Free: Substitute the plain flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
- Dairy-Free: Replace butter with a plant-based alternative and use dairy-free chocolate.
- Extra Add-ins: Experiment with other add-ins like dried fruits, toffee bits, or even a swirl of peanut butter.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I freeze these brownies?
Yes! Once completely cooled, wrap the brownies tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
How do I make my brownies extra fudgy?
Use a higher ratio of chocolate to flour and slightly underbake the brownies to achieve a fudgier texture.
Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to use a larger baking tin, and you may need to adjust the baking time accordingly.
Storage Instructions
Store your brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. For a longer shelf life, keep them in the fridge for up to a week.
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Thank you for following along with this guide to making Jamie Oliver’s delectable chocolate brownies. I hope you find as much joy in baking and eating them as I do. Happy baking!