Gemma’s Better-Than-Boxed Brownies Mix delivers rich, fudgy perfection in just 20 minutes of prep and 30 minutes of baking. These brownies boast a crackly top and a melt-in-your-mouth center, with a deep chocolate flavor that’s impossible to resist. Perfect for satisfying sweet cravings or impressing guests, they’re a foolproof treat that feels indulgent yet effortless.
Every bite is a decadent experience, blending the chewy texture of homemade brownies with the convenience of a mix. The aroma of warm chocolate fills your kitchen, promising a dessert that’s as comforting as it is delicious. Whether you’re a baking novice or a seasoned pro, these brownies are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that’s worth every minute.
Ingredients for Gemma’s Better-Than-Boxed Brownies Mix
- 2 sticks (8oz/225g) butter (unsalted recommended)
- 2 cups (12floz/340g) chopped bittersweet chocolate (divided; use high-quality chocolate for best results)
- 1 cup (8oz/225g) granulated sugar
- ½ cup (3oz/85g) dark brown sugar (light brown sugar can be substituted)
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 4 large eggs (room temperature, beaten)
- ½ cup (2½oz/71g) all-purpose flour
- ½ cup (2oz/57g) unsweetened cocoa powder (sifted for smoothness)
Step-by-Step Instructions for Perfect Brownies
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C). Butter an 8×8 inch baking pan and line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
- Melt the butter and chocolate: In a microwave-safe bowl or over a double boiler, gently melt the butter and 1½ cups (9oz/255g) of the chopped chocolate until smooth. Stir occasionally to avoid burning.
- Add sugars and flavorings: Stir in the granulated sugar, dark brown sugar, vanilla extract, and salt until fully combined.
- Incorporate the eggs: Briefly whisk the beaten eggs into the chocolate mixture until just combined. Avoid overmixing.
- Sift and mix dry ingredients: Sift the flour and cocoa powder over the chocolate mixture. Stir until just combined, ensuring no streaks of flour remain.
- Fold in remaining chocolate: Gently fold in the remaining ½ cup (3oz/85g) of chopped chocolate for extra richness.
- Bake: Spread the batter evenly into the prepared pan. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the brownies are just set and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.
- Cool and serve: Allow the brownies to cool slightly in the pan before cutting. Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent treat.
Perfect Pairings: Toppings and Serving Ideas
Take your brownies to the next level by serving them warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. For a decadent twist, drizzle with caramel sauce or sprinkle with sea salt. Fresh berries or a dusting of powdered sugar also make for a simple yet elegant finish.
Storing and Reheating for Maximum Freshness
Store leftover brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the fridge for up to a week. To reheat, pop them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or warm them in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 5 minutes. They’ll taste just like they’re fresh out of the pan!
Easy Recipe Variations to Try
Customize your brownies by adding chopped nuts, like walnuts or pecans, for a crunchy texture. For a fun twist, mix in mini marshmallows or peanut butter chips. If you’re feeling adventurous, swirl in a layer of cream cheese batter before baking for a marbled effect.
Time-Saving Tips for Busy Bakers
To streamline the process, pre-measure your ingredients before starting. Use a microwave-safe bowl to melt the butter and chocolate together in 30-second intervals, stirring in between. If you’re short on time, skip the parchment paper and simply grease the pan well—just be sure to let the brownies cool slightly before cutting.
Essential Equipment for Brownie Success
An 8×8 inch baking pan is ideal for this recipe, but a 9×9 inch pan will work too—just reduce the baking time by 5 minutes. A sifter ensures your flour and cocoa powder are lump-free, while a rubber spatula makes folding in the chocolate chunks a breeze. Don’t forget an oven thermometer to ensure accurate baking temperatures!
Gemma’s Better-Than-Boxed Brownies Mix
Ingredients
- 2 sticks 8oz/225g butter
- 2 cups 12floz/340g chopped bittersweet chocolate (divided)
- 1 cup 8oz/225g granulated sugar
- ½ cup 3 oz/85g dark brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 4 large room temperature eggs (beaten)
- ½ cup 2 ½oz/71g all-purpose flour
- ½ cup 2 oz/57g unsweetened cocoa powder
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C). Butter and line an 8×8 inch pan with parchment paper.
- Melt together the butter and 1 ½ cups (9oz/255g) of the chopped chocolate. Do this gently in the microwave or over a Ban Marie. Once melted and smooth, stir in the sugars, vanilla, and salt.
- Briefly whisk the beaten eggs into the chocolate mix until just combined. Sift over the bowl your flour and cocoa powder. Stir until just combined.
- Lastly, fold in the remaining ½ cup (3oz/85g) chopped chocolate before evenly spreading the mixture into the prepared baking pan.
- Bake for roughly 30-35 minutes or until the brownies are just set. Allow cooling slightly before enjoying them warm with vanilla ice cream.
