Thick Fudgy Chocolate Raspberry Brownies are the perfect indulgence for chocolate lovers seeking a sophisticated twist on the classic dessert.
Combining the deep richness of premium cocoa and dark chocolate with the sweet-tart contrast of fresh raspberries, this delectable treat delivers a moist, dense texture reminiscent of the best bakery Brownies.
Brownies have long been a staple in American baking, with their origins tracing back to the late 19th century, rapidly becoming a favorite for their simplicity and crowd-pleasing taste. What sets these brownies apart is their thick, fudgy profile, ensuring every bite is both decadent and satisfying.
The combination of melted chocolate and butter creates a luscious base, while the fresh raspberries introduce a burst of flavor and juiciness that brightens the dense chocolate batter.
These Thick Fudgy Chocolate Raspberry Brownies are an imaginative evolution of the classic, achieving a balance of sweetness and tang that keeps you reaching for more.
Whether you are an experienced home baker or trying brownies from scratch for the first time, this recipe provides approachable instructions and ingredient guidance that result in consistently delicious results. Perfect for holiday gatherings, potlucks, or elevating your weeknight desserts, this recipe is a must-have addition to any baking repertoire.
Enjoy the harmonious marriage of chocolate and raspberry as you bite into the ultimate fudgy brownie - a treat that turns any occasion into a celebration.
Ingredients
- 200g (7 oz) high-quality dark chocolate (at least 70% cocoa), chopped
- 170g (¾ cup) unsalted butter, diced
- 250g (1 and ¼ cups) granulated sugar
- 100g (½ cup) packed light brown sugar
- 3 large eggs, at room temperature
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 110g (¾ cup plus 2 tbsp) all-purpose flour
- 35g (⅓ cup) unsweetened cocoa powder
- ½ teaspoon fine sea salt
- 150g (1 cup) fresh raspberries
- 75g (½ cup) dark or semi-sweet chocolate chips
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 175°C (350°F). Line a 23cm (9-inch) square baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang on the sides for easy removal.
- In a heatproof bowl set over a saucepan of barely simmering water, melt the dark chocolate and unsalted butter together, stirring gently until smooth and glossy. Remove from heat and allow to cool slightly.
- Whisk in the granulated sugar and light brown sugar until thoroughly combined and almost dissolved. The mixture should look thick and glossy.
- Add eggs one at a time, whisking well after each addition to ensure the batter becomes thick and shiny. Stir in the vanilla extract.
- Sift the all-purpose flour, unsweetened cocoa powder, and sea salt directly into the bowl. Use a spatula or wooden spoon to gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients, mixing only until just combined.
- Fold in half of the chocolate chips. Spread half of the batter evenly into the prepared pan.
- Scatter half of the fresh raspberries over the batter. Top with the remaining brownie batter, then gently smooth the surface. Dot the rest of the raspberries over the top and sprinkle with the remaining chocolate chips.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the center is just set but still moist. A toothpick inserted 5 cm (2 inches) from the edge should come out with moist crumbs, not wet batter.
- Remove from the oven and let the brownies cool completely in the pan set on a wire rack.
- Once cooled, use the parchment paper to lift the brownies out of the pan. Cut into 16 squares using a sharp, clean knife. Wipe the blade between cuts for clean edges.
- Serve and enjoy your Thick Fudgy Chocolate Raspberry Brownies!
Nutritional Information
Thick Fudgy Chocolate Raspberry Brownies are a treat meant to be enjoyed in moderation, combining both richness and nutrients inherent to their high-quality ingredients. Each brownie square (assuming 16 servings) provides approximately 250-280 calories, with about 15 grams of fat-primarily from butter and chocolate, offering a satisfying mouthfeel and energy.
There are approximately 30 grams of carbohydrates per serving, the majority coming from granulated and brown sugars, with a moderate fiber content contributed by cocoa powder and raspberries. Raspberries add beneficial vitamins like vitamin C and manganese, while also supplying antioxidants that complement those found in dark chocolate.
The sugar content balances the tartness of the berries, yet should be enjoyed in moderation, especially for those monitoring their sugar intake. Protein content hovers around 3-4 grams per square, supplied by eggs and flour. Sodium levels remain modest due to the small amount of added sea salt.
If you wish to adjust nutrient values, feel free to substitute some ingredients: whole wheat flour can provide extra fiber, while replacing part of the butter with Greek yogurt or using a sugar substitute can reduce overall calorie intake.
Remember, brownies are a dessert and best enjoyed as a special occasion treat, but they can be part of a balanced diet when consumed as part of an overall healthy eating plan. Always consider portion size and accompaniment for best results.
Wine and Beverage Pairings
The indulgence of Thick Fudgy Chocolate Raspberry Brownies pairs exceptionally well with a variety of beverages. For a sophisticated choice, serve with a glass of late-bottled vintage port or a fruity red wine such as Pinot Noir, which complements both the chocolate and the tartness of raspberries.
A classic pairing is a steaming cup of freshly brewed dark roast coffee or espresso, whose bitterness balances the brownies' sweetness. For non-alcoholic options, try a rich hot chocolate or a berry-infused herbal tea, both of which enhance the dessert's flavor complexity.
If serving for a spring or summer occasion, a cold glass of raspberry lemonade or sparkling mineral water with a twist of lime can provide a refreshing contrast.
Cooking Tips and Variations
To truly capture the essence of Thick Fudgy Chocolate Raspberry Brownies, it is important to use the best quality chocolate you can find-preferably a dark chocolate with 70% cocoa or higher for intense flavor.
Be mindful when melting chocolate and butter together; use gentle, low heat to prevent scorching or separation. If you'd like your brownies to be even thicker, use a slightly smaller pan (like an 8-inch square) and extend the baking time by 5-8 minutes, monitoring doneness closely.
For a gluten-free version, substitute an all-purpose gluten-free flour blend. For dairy-free needs, opt for plant-based butter and non-dairy chocolate. To add texture and flavor, consider folding in a handful of chopped toasted nuts, such as walnuts or pecans.
Variations can also include swirling in cream cheese for a tangy twist or adding a tablespoon of coffee powder to intensify the chocolate flavor. Gently fold raspberries into the batter to keep them intact and avoid overmixing.
Always allow brownies to cool completely before cutting for the cleanest slices-refrigerating brownies for 1 hour before slicing helps achieve precise, bakery-style squares. For extra indulgence, dust the finished brownies with cocoa powder or drizzle with melted chocolate.
Serving Suggestions
When serving Thick Fudgy Chocolate Raspberry Brownies, presentation matters just as much as taste. After cooling completely, cut the brownies into equal squares using a sharp knife for clean, bakery-worthy edges. For casual gatherings, simply place on a platter or cake stand and allow guests to help themselves.
To elevate the experience for a dinner party or special celebration, serve each brownie square on a small dessert plate with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream.
Add a few fresh raspberries and a sprig of mint for a beautiful touch of color and elegance. In cooler weather, consider serving brownies slightly warm, letting the chocolate chips melt slightly for a gooier bite, and pairing with warm beverages.
These brownies transport well, making them a popular choice for potlucks, picnics, or bake sales-just wrap individually in parchment or wax paper. For a festive look, dust brownies lightly with powdered sugar or drizzle melted chocolate over the top just before serving.
If you plan to store leftovers, keep them wrapped at room temperature for up to 3 days, or freeze for longer storage; simply thaw at room temperature before serving for optimal taste and texture.
Health Benefits
While Thick Fudgy Chocolate Raspberry Brownies are an indulgent dessert, they do offer certain health benefits when enjoyed in moderation. Dark chocolate is rich in antioxidants called flavonoids, which have been associated with heart health and improved blood flow.
Raspberries contribute dietary fiber, helping with digestion and providing a source of vitamin C-an essential nutrient for immune function and skin health. The inclusion of eggs provides protein and essential amino acids, while the moderate use of unsweetened cocoa powder offers magnesium and iron.
Utilizing fresh, high-quality ingredients can enhance these benefits, and substituting some of the sugar or butter with healthier alternatives like coconut sugar or avocado puree can help make the brownies lighter while still delicious.
Given the sugar and calorie content, though, it is essential to enjoy brownies as an occasional treat rather than a daily staple. For individuals with dietary restrictions, adapting this recipe with gluten-free flour or dairy-free butter broadens its accessibility while still delivering exceptional taste.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, you can use frozen raspberries in this recipe. Do not thaw them before adding to the batter, as this prevents them from bleeding too much color and becoming mushy during baking.
For thick, fudgy brownies, avoid overmixing the batter after adding flour and do not overbake. Bake until just set in the center and a toothpick inserted at the edge comes out with moist crumbs.
Absolutely! Double all ingredients and bake in a larger (13x9 inch) pan, adjusting baking time as needed, typically adding 10-15 minutes and checking for doneness.
This recipe, as written, is nut-free. To enhance texture, you may fold in seeds like sunflower or pumpkin seeds or leave out any additions entirely.
Store leftover brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months, thawing before serving.
Thick Fudgy Chocolate Raspberry Brownies are a tempting and versatile treat that blend rich chocolate decadence with bright raspberry flavor. Easy to prepare and even easier to enjoy, these brownies offer a satisfying texture, bold taste, and stunning presentation for any occasion. Whether baked for a family gathering, holiday table, or a quiet evening in, their irresistible gooeyness and fruity accent guarantee everyone will reach for seconds. With helpful tips, customizable variations, and serving ideas, these brownies can become your new go-to homemade dessert. Savor each fudgy, chocolatey, and raspberry-filled bite, knowing you have mastered a classic with a gourmet twist.
Ingredients
- 200g dark chocolate (roughly chopped)
- 120g unsalted butter
- 200g granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 90g all-purpose flour
- 30g unsweetened cocoa powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 100g fresh raspberries
Instructions
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1Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper.
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2In a heatproof bowl, melt dark chocolate and butter together over a pot of simmering water, stirring until smooth. Let cool slightly.
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3Whisk in the sugar, followed by the eggs one at a time. Stir in the vanilla extract.
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4Sift in the flour, cocoa powder, and salt. Gently fold until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
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5Fold in the raspberries, reserving a few for topping. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and scatter reserved raspberries over the top.
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6Bake for 28-32 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. Cool completely before slicing.
Approximate Information for One Serving
Nutrition Disclaimers
Number of total servings shown is approximate. Actual number of servings will depend on your preferred portion sizes.
Nutritional values shown are general guidelines and reflect information for 1 serving using the ingredients listed, not including any optional ingredients. Actual macros may vary slightly depending on specific brands and types of ingredients used.
To determine the weight of one serving, prepare the recipe as instructed. Weigh the finished recipe, then divide the weight of the finished recipe (not including the weight of the container the food is in) by the desired number of servings. Result will be the weight of one serving.
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