The Best Small Batch Brownies

This is the recipe that you will find yourself going back to over and over again when that specific chocolate craving for something rich and fudgy hits. It is made with a combination of oil and butter to keep it extra fudgy and uses high-quality cocoa powder for the best-flavored brownie.

This is the best small batch brownie recipe ever!

Sometimes you just don’t need a whole pan of brownies for making something in a loaf pan yielding just enough to curb that sweet tooth but without leaving you with a ton of leftovers is just what you need.

The best part is that I have the recipe for you that I know you will truly love! Bonus points, these will taste even better the next day so no need to try and finish them all the day you make them! Leave some to enjoy with your cup of coffee!

Why you need to make this recipe!

• Insanely delicious: If you’re a chocolate lover or someone with a sweet tooth, these brownies will hit the spot.
• Chewy texture: This recipe gives you that perfect chewy brownie with a rich chocolate flavor.
• One-bowl wonder: Fewer dishes means easier cleanup! You can make the batter in one bowl, which makes this small batch brownies recipe even more convenient.
• Quick & easy: You likely have all the ingredients in your pantry, so these brownies are perfect for a quick weeknight dessert.
• Perfect portion size: This recipe yields enough brownies to serve just 3-4 people, making it ideal for small gatherings or a personal treat without too many leftovers.

Ingredients for these perfect brownies

Here’s what you’ll need to make these small batch brownies. For the full, detailed ingredient measurements, make sure to scroll down to the recipe card!

• Butter & oil: A combination of unsalted butter and oil gives us that perfect chewy and fudgy texture.
• Brown sugar & granulated sugar: The blend of these sugars gives us the crinkly top and the right balance of sweetness for a chewy brownie.
• Egg: Use a large egg at room temperature to ensure smooth batter consistency.
• Vanilla extract- This will help add a bit of depth of flavor to our brownies.
• Cocoa powder-Use high-quality cocoa powder (I recommend Dutch-process cocoa for the best chocolate flavor).
• Flour– All-purpose flour works great for this recipe for that ultimate chewy texture. 
• Salt– A pinch of salt balances out the sweetness and enhances the chocolate flavor.
• Chocolate chips or chocolate chunks– I love using chopped-up chocolate bars (rather than just chocolate chips) to create those stunning pools of chocolate inside the brownies.

Should I Use a Kitchen Scale for Baking These Brownies?

Using a kitchen scale can improve accuracy and consistency, yielding brownies that look and taste just like the ones I made in these photos. Here are some benefits:

• Precise Measurements: It ensures you measure ingredients like flour and cocoa powder correctly because there can often be discrepancies in the grams measurement when you use cup measurements.
• Consistency: Weighing ingredients gives you reliable, perfect results every time.

How to make this small-batch brownies recipe?

It’s so easy to make these brownies at home. Follow these simple steps, and you’ll be indulging in fudgy brownies in no time!

1. In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the butter and oil together until smooth. You can also use a double boiler.
2. Add both the granulated sugar and brown sugar to the melted butter mixture and whisk until fully combined, about 3 minutes.
3. Stir in the egg and vanilla extract and whisk until just combined.
4. Fold in the flour, cocoa powder, and salt until the flour mixture disappears.
5. Mix in the chopped-up chocolate chunks to combine.
6. Pour the brownie batter into a parchment paper-lined loaf pan and bake at 325°F for around 25 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center since the baking time can vary from oven to oven. The brownies should have a few moist crumbs but not be too wet.
7. Let your brownies cool completely before slicing. This allows them to set and gives you that chewy texture and the perfect shaped slices.

Frequently asked questions – FAQ

How do I store these brownies?

It’s very likely you won’t have leftovers, but just in case you do, store the brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. To enjoy them again, you can warm them up in the microwave for a few seconds to get that gooey, fresh-baked feel.

Can I freeze these brownies?

Yes! You can freeze these small batch fudgy brownies for up to 2 months. Place them in an airtight container and freeze. To enjoy later, either eat them frozen, microwave them for a few seconds to get them warm and gooey, or thaw them overnight in the fridge or on the counter for about an hour.

Fun brownie variations

Get creative with your brownies! Here are a few fun ideas to try:

• Mix in white chocolate chips, peanut butter chips, or chopped nuts for added texture and flavor.
• Top the brownies with your favorite frosting for a decadent treat.
• Use a holiday cookie cutter to shape the brownies for special occasions like Halloween or Christmas.
• Swirl in some melted peanut butter or Nutella before baking for a unique twist on these brownies.

Can I double this recipe?

You sure can! If you double this small batch brownie recipe, bake it in an 8×8 inch pan and start checking for doneness at around 25-30 minutes. To know if it’s done, you want to insert a toothpick in the center and have it come out with just a few moist crumbs.

How to Serve Small Batch Brownies?

These brownies are great on their own, but here are a few ways to enhance them:

• With Hot Beverages: Pair with coffee or hot chocolate for a cozy dessert.
• With Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla or chocolate ice cream pairs perfectly with the warm brownies.
• Topped with Sauce: Try drizzling hot fudge or dulce de leche for extra richness.
• With Whipped Cream & Berries: A dollop of whipped cream and fresh berries make for a lighter, refreshing contrast.
• As a Brownie Sundae: Layer brownies, ice cream, and toppings for a fun treat.

Small-batch brownies recipe

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