Ingredients
Scale
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs, room temperature
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/3 cup high-quality unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 cup chopped pecans, toasted
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips (optional)
Instructions
- Step 1: Prep your space. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8×8 inch square baking pan with butter or line it with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides for easy removal.
- Step 2: Mix the base. In a large mixing bowl, combine the melted butter and granulated sugar. Whisk by hand until the mixture is well combined and slightly shiny.
- Step 3: Add wet ingredients. Add the eggs one at a time, whisking thoroughly after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
- Step 4: Combine dry ingredients. Sift the cocoa powder, flour, salt, and baking powder into the wet mixture. Use a spatula to fold the ingredients together until just combined. Do not overmix, as this can make the brownies tough.
- Step 5: Add the pecans. Gently fold in 3/4 cup of the chopped pecans and the chocolate chips if you are using them. Save the remaining pecans for the top.
- Step 6: Bake. Spread the batter evenly into the prepared pan. Sprinkle the remaining pecans over the top. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out with a few moist crumbs attached.
- Step 7: Cool and serve. Remove the pan from the oven and let it cool completely on a wire rack. Lift the brownies out using the parchment paper and cut them into squares.
- Cook Time: 30 minutes