Description of this recipe:
Cake Mix Brownies offer a delightful shortcut to intensely fudgy and chocolatey brownies. This recipe transforms a simple chocolate cake mix into a rich, satisfying treat that’s incredibly easy to make. Perfect for busy bakers or anyone craving a quick chocolate fix, these brownies deliver exceptional flavor and texture with minimal effort. Forget complicated recipes and long ingredient lists – these cake mix brownies are your secret weapon for instant gratification.
Why you will love this recipe:
- Unbelievably Easy: With just a handful of ingredients and a single bowl, these brownies come together in minutes. It’s the ideal recipe for beginner bakers or anyone seeking a no-fuss dessert option.
- Intensely Fudgy: The addition of oil and eggs to the cake mix creates a texture that is dense, moist, and irresistibly fudgy. These brownies are far from cakey; they deliver the rich, gooey experience you crave.
- Customizable: The basic recipe is a blank canvas for your creativity. Add nuts, candies, different types of chocolate chips, or even swirls of peanut butter for a personalized touch.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether you’re baking for a casual weeknight dessert, a potluck gathering, or a special celebration, these brownies are always a crowd-pleaser. Their simplicity and deliciousness make them a versatile option for any event.
- Kid-Friendly: Get the kids involved in the kitchen with this easy and fun recipe. They’ll love helping to mix the ingredients and, of course, indulging in the finished product.
Ingredients:
- 15.25 oz chocolate cake mix*
- 1/3 cup vegetable oil or other neutral flavored oil
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup chocolate chips
- Powdered sugar (optional)
Preparation:
Step 1: Preheat the oven to 350ºF (175ºC). Prepare your baking dish. This is crucial for easy removal and even baking. Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides. This creates a sling for effortlessly lifting the brownies out of the pan after baking. Alternatively, thoroughly spray the baking dish with nonstick cooking spray, ensuring all corners and edges are coated. This will prevent the brownies from sticking and make cleanup a breeze.
Step 2: Combine the wet and dry ingredients in a large mixing bowl. In the bowl, add the chocolate cake mix, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract. Using a sturdy spoon or a hand mixer, combine the ingredients. Mix everything together until it is almost mixed, but a few dry patches will still remain. It’s important not to overmix at this stage, as overmixing can lead to tough brownies. The dough will be stiff and dense, which is normal for this recipe.
Step 3: Incorporate the chocolate chips for added richness. Add the chocolate chips to the bowl with the batter. Continue to mix until there are no dry patches remaining and the chocolate chips are evenly distributed throughout the batter. Ensure that the chocolate chips are well-dispersed, so every bite is packed with chocolatey goodness.
Step 4: Transfer the batter to the prepared baking dish. Press the batter evenly into the prepared baking dish. Use a spatula or your fingers to smooth the surface of the batter, ensuring it reaches all corners of the pan. This will help the brownies bake evenly and create a uniform appearance.
Step 5: Bake until a tester comes out almost clean. Place the baking dish in the preheated oven. Bake until a wooden skewer or toothpick inserted into the center of the brownies comes out almost clean, about 20-25 minutes. The brownies should be set around the edges but still slightly soft in the middle. Be careful not to overbake, as this will result in dry, crumbly brownies.
Step 6: Cool, cut, and serve. Remove the baking dish from the oven and let the brownies cool completely in the pan before cutting into bars for serving. Cooling allows the brownies to set properly and prevents them from falling apart when cut. Once cooled, lift the brownies out of the pan using the parchment paper sling (if used) or invert the pan onto a cutting board. Cut the brownies into squares or bars of your desired size. If desired, sprinkle the top with powdered sugar for an extra touch of sweetness and visual appeal.
COOKING Rating: 5/5 (Easy and delicious!)
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for a classic dessert combination.
- Pair with a glass of cold milk or a cup of hot coffee for a comforting treat.
- Add a drizzle of chocolate sauce or caramel sauce for extra indulgence.
- Serve alongside fresh berries for a burst of flavor and color.
- Cut into smaller squares and serve as part of a dessert platter for parties or gatherings.
Tips:
- For extra fudgy brownies, slightly underbake them. They will continue to set as they cool.
- Don’t overmix the batter, as this can result in tough brownies. Mix only until the ingredients are just combined.
- Use high-quality chocolate chips for the best flavor.
- Add a pinch of salt to the batter to enhance the chocolate flavor.
- Store leftover brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
Total Time: 25-30 minutes
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: 250
- Protein: 3g
- Sodium: 150mg
Conclusion:
Cake Mix Brownies are a testament to the fact that deliciousness doesn’t always require complexity. This recipe is a foolproof way to satisfy your chocolate cravings with minimal effort and maximum flavor. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a kitchen novice, you’ll appreciate the simplicity and satisfying results of these fudgy, decadent brownies. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to indulge in a treat that’s sure to become a new favorite.
Questions and Answers about this recipe:
Q1: Can I use a different size baking dish?
A: While an 8×8-inch baking dish is recommended for the best thickness and texture, you can use a 9×13-inch pan if desired. However, the brownies will be thinner and may require a slightly shorter baking time. Keep a close eye on them and adjust the baking time accordingly.
Q2: Can I add nuts to these brownies?
A: Absolutely! Adding nuts is a great way to customize these brownies. Walnuts, pecans, or almonds would all be delicious additions. Simply chop the nuts and stir them into the batter along with the chocolate chips. About 1/2 to 3/4 cup of chopped nuts should be sufficient.
Q3: Can I use a sugar-free cake mix?
A: Yes, you can use a sugar-free chocolate cake mix. However, be aware that the texture and sweetness of the brownies may be slightly different. You may want to add a touch of extra vanilla extract or a sugar substitute to compensate for the reduced sweetness.
Q4: How do I prevent the brownies from sticking to the pan?
A: To prevent sticking, make sure to either line the baking dish with parchment paper or thoroughly grease it with nonstick cooking spray. If using parchment paper, leave an overhang on the sides to create a sling for easy removal. If using cooking spray, ensure all corners and edges are coated.
Q5: Can I make these brownies ahead of time?
A: Yes, these brownies can be made ahead of time. Once cooled, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. They can also be frozen for longer storage. Wrap the brownies tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
