These decadent bars feature a fudgy brownie base layered with a rich chocolate topping for a double-chocolate treat that’s perfect for slicing and sharing.
Ingredients
Brownie Layer
· 1 cup unsalted butter
· 1½ cups granulated sugar
· ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
· ¼ teaspoon salt
· 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
· 3 large eggs
· 1 cup all-purpose flour
Chocolate Topping
· 1½ cups semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips
· ½ cup heavy cream
· 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
· Optional: flaky sea salt, chopped nuts, sprinkles, or crushed pretzels for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat Oven & Prepare Pan:
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch or 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving overhang for easy removal. - Make Brownie Batter:
In a medium saucepan over low heat, melt the butter. Remove from heat and whisk in sugar, cocoa powder, and salt until smooth. Whisk in vanilla, then eggs one at a time. Stir in flour just until combined—do not overmix. - Bake Brownies:
Pour batter into prepared pan and spread evenly. Bake for 25–30 minutes (8-inch pan may need 30–35 minutes) until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. Let cool completely in pan on a wire rack. - Make Chocolate Topping:
Place chocolate chips in a heatproof bowl. In a small saucepan, heat cream and butter over medium heat until it just begins to simmer. Pour hot cream over chocolate chips and let sit for 3 minutes. Stir until smooth and glossy. - Assemble:
Pour warm chocolate ganache over the cooled brownie base. Spread evenly with an offset spatula. Add optional toppings like flaky sea salt or nuts while topping is still wet. - Chill & Set:
Refrigerate for at least 2 hours until the topping is firm. - Slice & Serve:
Use parchment overhang to lift the brownie slab out of the pan. Trim edges if desired and cut into bars or squares. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week, or at room temperature for 2–3 days in a cool place.
Tips
· For extra fudgy brownies, slightly underbake by a minute or two.
· You can use milk chocolate or white chocolate for the topping for a sweeter flavor.
· Clean your knife between cuts for neat, clean slices.
Enjoy these rich, chocolatey bars with a glass of cold milk or coffee!