Cake Like Brownie Recipe

I find there’s nothing quite like the joy of a perfect homemade treat, and this cake like brownie recipe delivers every single time.

You’ll love the way the rich chocolate aroma fills your kitchen as these bake, creating that ideal balance of fudgy chewiness and tender cakey texture with a delightful crinkly top.

This cake like brownie recipe is your answer for those moments when you need a comforting, stress-free dessert for family dinners or a quick afternoon pick-me-up. It’s truly a cherished family favorite, perfected to ensure consistent deliciousness for busy families or anyone craving an easy, satisfying bake.

Key Ingredients and Flavor Foundations

Crafting the perfect cake like brownie recipe starts with quality ingredients. Here are the essentials that give our brownies their distinct character:

• 170 g (6 oz) unsalted butter: Provides moisture, richness, and that classic fudgy texture. (I sometimes use a good quality salted butter and reduce the added salt by a pinch.)
• 200 g (7 oz) dark chocolate (70% cocoa solids), chopped: For deep, intense chocolate flavor and color.
• 300 g (1 ½ cups) granulated sugar: Adds sweetness, contributes to the crinkly top, and helps create the tender crumb.
• 3 large eggs, at room temperature: Bind the ingredients, add richness, and contribute to the cakey texture. (Using room temperature eggs helps achieve a smoother batter, or you can quickly warm them in a bowl of warm water.)
• 1 teaspoon alcohol-free vanilla extract: Enhances all the chocolate notes, adding warmth and depth.
• 125 g (1 cup) all-purpose flour: Provides structure without making the brownies too dense or overly chewy.
• ½ teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and amplifies the chocolate flavor.

Looking for smart swaps or add-ins? Consider a gluten-free flour blend for a GF option, or stir in chocolate chips (milk, dark, or white) for extra pockets of melty goodness. A pinch of instant espresso powder can also deepen the chocolate notes beautifully for this family-friendly dessert.

Highlight: Using high-quality dark chocolate makes a significant difference in the final taste and texture of your cake like brownie recipe.

Seasonal/Freshness notes: Always opt for fresh eggs and pure vanilla extract for the best overall flavor profile in any home-baked treat.

Cooking Method Made Simple

Making this delightful cake like brownie recipe is straightforward. Follow these steps for an easy, hearty treat, delivering an amazing cake like brownie recipe every time:

1. Prep Your Pan: Preheat your oven to 175°C (350°F). Grease and line a 20×20 cm (8×8 inch) square baking pan (or a 9×9 inch equivalent) with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on two sides. This makes lifting the cooled brownies out much easier.
2. Melt Chocolate & Butter: In a large heatproof bowl set over a saucepan of simmering water (a bain-marie), melt the butter and chopped dark chocolate, stirring gently until completely smooth and glossy. Remove from heat and let cool slightly for about 5 minutes; you should feel it’s warm but not hot.
3. Whisk Wet Ingredients: Whisk the 300 g (1 ½ cups) granulated sugar into the melted chocolate mixture until well combined. Add the eggs one at a time, whisking vigorously after each addition until fully incorporated and the mixture looks glossy and emulsified. Stir in the alcohol-free vanilla extract.
4. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and salt until evenly distributed.
5. Fold Together: Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture using a spatula, mixing until just combined and no streaks of flour remain. If you overmix, you risk developing too much gluten, which can lead to a tougher, less tender brownie, so stop as soon as it’s homogenous.
6. Bake to Perfection: Pour the batter into your prepared pan and spread evenly. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with moist crumbs, but no wet batter. The edges should appear set and slightly puffed, while the center might still have a subtle wobble. When I make these for my kids, I often pull them at the 30-minute mark for an extra fudgy middle!
7. Cool Completely: Let the brownies cool completely in the pan on a wire rack for at least 2 hours. This is crucial for achieving that desired fudgy texture and clean, neat slices. Once cooled, use the parchment paper overhang to lift them from the pan.

The aroma of warm chocolate will fill your kitchen as these bake, and you’ll notice a beautiful, shiny crinkle top develop, signaling they’re almost ready.

For a slightly fudgier brownie texture, consider baking for 2-3 minutes less than the suggested maximum time. This versatile cake like brownie recipe can be enjoyed as a quick meal prep component or a healthier weeknight dessert.

Ideal Serving Moments and Pairings

This cake like brownie recipe is wonderfully versatile for many occasions, whether you need a quick treat or something for a gathering. Its comforting appeal makes it a go-to for family dinners.

• Quick weeknight desserts: A simple, satisfying end to any meal, perfect for family dinners.
• Gatherings: Bring them to potlucks, school bake sales, or family get-togethers for an easy dessert idea.
• Meal prep lunches: Pack a square for a delightful midday treat that satisfies sweet cravings.
• Holidays: Easily adaptable for festive occasions like Valentine’s Day or Christmas.

Pair these delicious brownies with:

• Sides: A scoop of creamy vanilla bean ice cream, a dollop of fresh whipped cream, or bright, fresh berries.
• Toppings: A drizzle of rich chocolate syrup, sweet caramel sauce, or a light sprinkle of powdered sugar.
• Drinks: A tall glass of cold milk, a warm mug of coffee, or comforting hot chocolate.

For convenience and meal prep, proper storage keeps your cake like brownie recipe tasting fresh:

• Best containers: Store in an airtight container to maintain moisture.
• Fridge/freezer timing: Enjoy at room temperature for up to 5 days, keep in the fridge for 1 week, or freeze for up to 3 months.
• Reheating methods: Warm gently in the microwave for 10-20 seconds for a soft center, or a low oven for a few minutes for that fresh-baked feel.

Nutrition, Wellness & Everyday Benefits of Cake Like Brownies

While an indulgence, this recipe can still fit into a balanced approach to wellness, offering comfort and joy without overdoing it. It’s one of my favorite easy meal prep ideas when I need something quick.

• Satisfies sweet cravings: Enjoy a delightful treat with controlled, familiar ingredients.
• Provides a quick energy boost: Perfect for a midday pick-me-up.
• Lighter options: Reduce sugar slightly, use unsweetened cocoa, or incorporate healthy fats like avocado oil for a healthier weeknight dessert.

This recipe ties beautifully into various lifestyles:

• Family-friendly: A universal favorite for all ages, perfect for busy households.
• Plant-based adaptable: Easily convert to vegan with butter and egg substitutes.
• Gluten-free friendly: Simple to make using a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.

It’s a truly budget-friendly recipe too, saving money compared to store-bought options.

Recipe Advantages for Different Needs

This cake like brownie recipe offers practical advantages that resonate with many home cooks.

• Saving money: Far more economical and satisfying than bakery-bought brownies.
• Eating healthier: You control the ingredients, sugar levels, and any desired add-ins.
• Quick prep: From pantry to oven in under 15 minutes, making it ideal for quick meals.

It also solves common challenges in the kitchen:

• Perfect for beginner bakers: Offers a reliable, delicious outcome every time.
• Satisfies intense chocolate cravings: Quickly and easily.
• Versatile for last-minute gatherings: Or adds a special touch to any occasion.
• Fantastic for involving kids: A great way to get children excited about baking.

Expert Tips, Flavor Boosts, and Adaptations

Elevate your cake like brownie recipe with these simple expert tips, ensuring beautiful texture and presentation.

• For neat slices, let brownies cool completely (or chill in the fridge) before cutting. This is my secret for bakery-perfect squares.
• A sprinkle of flaky sea salt on top right after baking elevates the flavor beautifully, balancing the sweetness.

Achieving the perfect texture:

Don’t overmix the batter; gentle folding prevents tough brownies by limiting gluten development. Mix only until just combined for that ideal cakey-fudgy balance.

Make these brownies special for any audience:

• Kid-approved: Add colorful sprinkles or mini candy pieces to the batter before baking.
• Guest-ready: Serve warm with a scoop of gourmet vanilla bean ice cream and a fresh mint sprig for an elegant touch.
• Holiday-special: Swirl in a festive frosting or add themed sprinkles for any holiday celebration.

Adapt this recipe easily for various dietary needs:

• Gluten-free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend in place of all-purpose flour, ensuring good texture.
• Dairy-free: Substitute butter with a plant-based butter alternative or coconut oil for a similar richness.
• Egg allergies: Use a flax egg (1 Tbsp ground flaxseed + 3 Tbsp water per egg) or a commercial egg replacer; note that texture may vary slightly.

Common Questions About Cake Like Brownies

Can I make this cake like brownie recipe ahead for meal prep?

Yes, absolutely! These brownies stay fresh and delicious for up to 5 days at room temperature in an airtight container, making them ideal for prepping snacks or desserts in advance. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to a week or freeze for up to 3 months, then warm gently in the microwave.

What’s the healthiest way to prepare a cake like brownie recipe?

To make them healthier, you can reduce the sugar by 1/4 cup, use unsweetened cocoa powder, incorporate whole wheat pastry flour for added fiber, or even add pureed black beans or zucchini for extra nutrients. These tweaks make it a more wholesome treat.

Which stores or online shops carry quality ingredients for brownies?

Most major grocery stores offer excellent quality butter, granulated sugar, and unsweetened cocoa. For specialty items like gourmet vanilla extract or unique chocolate chips, I often check out health food stores or trusted online baking supply retailers for premium ingredients.

How do I get that perfect crinkly top on my cake like brownies?

The desirable crinkly top often forms naturally from beating the eggs and sugar well, which creates a slight meringue-like layer that sets and cracks during baking. Ensuring your butter is melted and incorporating it with the sugar before eggs can also help achieve this iconic look.

Can I add different mix-ins to my cake like brownie recipe?

Definitely! Walnuts, pecans, different types of chocolate chips (milk, dark, white), dried cranberries, or even a swirl of cream cheese or peanut butter are popular and delicious additions to this versatile recipe. Feel free to customize to your family’s favorites.

Why are my brownies too dry and crumbly instead of fudgy?

Dry, crumbly brownies are usually a clear sign of overbaking. Keep a close eye on them and remove from the oven when a toothpick inserted near the center comes out with moist crumbs, not wet batter. Baking 2-3 minutes less can make a big difference for a fudgier texture.

This easy cake like brownie recipe is more than just a dessert; it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that brings warmth and smiles to any table, perfect for quick meals or family dinners. I know my family always looks forward to a batch. Bookmark this delightful recipe for your next chocolate craving, or better yet, whip up a batch tonight and enjoy the pure homemade goodness! Save this recipe on Pinterest so you always have it handy for easy family dinners.

cake like brownie recipe

---

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

• Author: Samantha Hayes
• Total Time: 180 minutes
• Yield: 16 brownies 1x
• Diet: General

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

This recipe delivers a perfect cake-like brownie with a balance of fudgy chewiness and tender cakey texture, featuring a delightful crinkly top. It’s a comforting and stress-free dessert, ideal for family dinners or a quick treat.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 6 ounces unsalted butter
• 7 ounces dark chocolate (70% cocoa solids), chopped
• 1.5 cups granulated sugar
• 3 large eggs, at room temperature
• 1 teaspoon alcohol-free vanilla extract
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 0.5 teaspoon salt

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

1. Prep Your Pan: Preheat oven to 175 C (350 F). Grease and line an 8×8 inch (or 9×9 inch) square baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on two sides.
2. Melt Chocolate and Butter: In a large heatproof bowl set over a saucepan of simmering water, melt the butter and chopped dark chocolate, stirring gently until completely smooth and glossy. Remove from heat and let cool slightly for about 5 minutes until warm but not hot.
3. Whisk Wet Ingredients: Whisk the granulated sugar into the melted chocolate mixture until well combined. Add the eggs one at a time, whisking vigorously after each addition until fully incorporated and the mixture looks glossy and emulsified. Stir in the alcohol-free vanilla extract.
4. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and salt until evenly distributed.
5. Fold Together: Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture using a spatula, mixing until just combined and no streaks of flour remain, avoiding overmixing.
6. Bake to Perfection: Pour the batter into your prepared pan and spread evenly. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with moist crumbs but no wet batter. The edges should appear set and slightly puffed.
7. Cool Completely: Let the brownies cool completely in the pan on a wire rack for at least 2 hours. Once cooled, use the parchment paper overhang to lift them from the pan.

Notes

For a slightly fudgier brownie texture, consider baking for 2-3 minutes less than the suggested maximum time. It’s crucial to let the brownies cool completely for at least 2 hours to achieve the desired fudgy texture and clean, neat slices. Using room temperature eggs helps achieve a smoother batter. High-quality dark chocolate makes a significant difference in the final taste and texture. For variations, consider a gluten-free flour blend for a GF option, stir in chocolate chips (milk, dark, or white), or add a pinch of instant espresso powder to deepen chocolate notes.

• Prep Time: 25 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 brownie
• Calories: 260 calories
• Sugar: 23 g
• Sodium: 72 mg
• Fat: 14 g
• Saturated Fat: 8 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 31 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Protein: 3 g
• Cholesterol: 60 mg