Best Fudgy Cocoa Brownies Recipe: Rich, Gooey & Irresistible
These Best Fudgy Cocoa Brownies are the ultimate answer to every chocolate lover’s craving. Made with rich cocoa powder, melty chocolate chips, and a soft, gooey center, they strike the perfect balance between chewy edges and a decadent, fudgy middle. No boxed mix required—just pantry staples and 10 minutes of prep for bakery-style brownies at home.

What Makes This Dish Special?
These brownies are deeply chocolatey without being overly sweet. The secret lies in using unsweetened cocoa powder paired with melted butter, giving them an intense flavor and moist texture. They’re dense, chewy, and loaded with chocolate chips for pockets of melty goodness. Perfect as a dessert, afternoon snack, or warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Cooking Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25–30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Servings: 16 small brownies or 9 large ones
Ingredients
- ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tablespoon oil (vegetable or coconut)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon baking powder (optional, for slightly cakier texture)
- ½ cup chocolate chips or chunks
Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
2. Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together melted butter, oil, and sugar until well combined and glossy. Add eggs and vanilla, whisking for about a minute until the mixture is light and smooth.
3. Add Dry Ingredients
Sift in the cocoa powder, flour, salt, and baking powder if using. Gently fold the mixture with a spatula until just combined—do not overmix.
4. Stir in Chocolate Chips
Fold in the chocolate chips or chunks for added richness and texture.
5. Bake
Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top. Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs (not wet batter).
6. Cool and Slice
Let brownies cool completely in the pan before slicing into squares for clean edges and the fudgiest texture.

Variations
- Double Chocolate: Use dark chocolate chunks for an extra rich flavor.
- Nutty Twist: Add ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter.
- Espresso Kick: Mix in 1 teaspoon instant espresso powder for depth.
- Salted Top: Sprinkle flaky sea salt on top before baking for contrast.
- Frosted Brownies: Add a layer of chocolate ganache or cream cheese frosting once cooled.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk or electric hand mixer
- Spatula
- 8×8-inch baking pan
- Parchment paper or nonstick spray
Nutritional Information (Approx. Per Serving, 1 of 16)
- Calories: 160
- Protein: 2g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fat: 9g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 14g
Storage Tips
- Room Temp: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Refrigerator: Chill for extra dense brownies, up to 1 week.
- Freezer: Wrap tightly and freeze up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature.
My Cooking Experience
I’ve tested dozens of brownie recipes over the years, but I always come back to this one. It’s the best bang-for-your-buck recipe—simple, fast, and absolutely decadent. These brownies are a go-to for last-minute guests, bake sales, or late-night cravings. They never last more than a day in my house!
Conclusion
These Best Fudgy Cocoa Brownies are a chocolate dream come true—rich, moist, and so easy to make. Whether you’re baking for a party or just treating yourself, this recipe delivers indulgence in every bite. One bowl, no fuss, and total satisfaction.

best fudgy cocoa brownies
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
- In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together melted butter, oil, and sugar until well combined and glossy. Add eggs and vanilla, whisking for about a minute until the mixture is light and smooth.
- Sift in the cocoa powder, flour, salt, and baking powder if using. Gently fold the mixture with a spatula until just combined—do not overmix.
- Fold in the chocolate chips or chunks for added richness and texture.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top. Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs (not wet batter).
- Let brownies cool completely in the pan before slicing into squares for clean edges and the fudgiest texture.
Notes
- Room Temp: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Refrigerator: Chill for extra dense brownies, up to 1 week.
- Freezer: Wrap tightly and freeze up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature.