Secret Chorus Cookbook Brownies – A Treasured Family Recipe!


 


  • 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, melted

  • 2 cups granulated sugar

  • ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder (Dutch-process or natural)

  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

  • 4 large eggs

  • 1 cup all-purpose flour

  • ½ tsp salt

  • 1 cup chopped walnuts or chocolate chips (optional but classic!)


Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Mix Wet Ingredients

  • In a large bowl, whisk melted butter, sugar, and cocoa until smooth.

  • Stir in vanilla, then add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each.

2. Add Dry Ingredients

  • Gently fold in flour and salt until just combined (don’t overmix!).

  • Stir in nuts or chocolate chips if using.

3. Bake to Perfection

  • Pour into a greased 9x13-inch pan (or lined with parchment paper).

  • Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25-30 mins until a toothpick inserted near the edge comes out with moist crumbs (not wet batter).

4. Cool & Slice

  • Let cool completely in the pan (this is key for clean cuts!).

  • For extra fudgy brownies, chill 1 hour before slicing.


Pro Tips for the Best Brownies

🔹 Use room-temperature eggs – Ensures even mixing.
🔹 Underbake slightly – They’ll firm up as they cool.
🔹 For shiny crackly tops – Don’t skip the whisking of butter, sugar, and cocoa!
🔹 Double the batch – They freeze beautifully for up to 3 months.


Variations & Swaps

🍫 Triple chocolate – Add white and milk chocolate chunks.
☕ Mocha twist – Stir in 1 tsp instant espresso powder.
🍂 Salted caramel – Drizzle with caramel and flaky salt before baking.
🌱 Gluten-free – Swap flour for GF 1:1 blend.


FAQs

Q: Can I use oil instead of butter?
A: Yes, but butter adds richer flavor and that coveted crackly top.

Q: Why are my brownies cakey?
A: Overmixing or overbaking! Fold gently and pull them out just as the edges set.

Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Keep in an airtight container at room temp for 4 days or freeze for longer.


Final Thoughts

These Chorus Cookbook Brownies are a treasured recipe for a reason—simple, timeless, and deeply satisfying. One bite and you’ll understand why it’s been kept secret for so long!