Mary Berry’s Chocolate Chip Brownies offer a rich, fudgy centre with a crackly, crisp top, studded with dark chocolate chips that add every bite a burst of melting chocolate. These easy-to-make brownies are ideal for a quick bake, boasting a perfect balance of moist texture and intense chocolate flavour.
By Mary Berry
From Mary Berry Recipes
This recipe has a Nutri-Score of C, balancing indulgent butter and sugar content with the benefits of cocoa. Each square is rich in flavour and calories, making these brownies a delicious treat worthy of moderation.
Equipment
£14.00 (available from £12.50)
£21.35 (available from £15.03)
£15.00 (available from £9.99)
Ingredients
- 275g (10 oz) salted butter, softened
- 375g (13 oz) caster sugar
- 4 extra-large eggs
- 75g (3 oz) unsweetened cocoa powder
- 115g (4 oz) plain flour
- 1½ tsp baking powder
- ¼ tsp salt
- 115g (4 oz) dark chocolate chips (70% cocoa recommended)
Customise
- For a fudgier centre: Bake for 38–40 minutes even if the centre feels slightly wobbly.
- Chocolate swaps: Use milk or white chocolate chips for a sweeter flavour.
- Nutty addition: Add 75g chopped walnuts or pecans with the chocolate chips for extra texture and taste.
- Gluten-free version: Substitute plain flour with a gluten-free flour blend; avoid overbaking to maintain moisture.
Method
- Preheat your oven:
Preheat your oven to 180°C (160°C fan) / 350°F. Grease and line a 9×13-inch baking tin with baking parchment. - Mix all ingredients:
Place softened salted butter, caster sugar, eggs, cocoa powder, plain flour, baking powder, salt, and chocolate chips into a large bowl. Use a hand-held mixer or wooden spoon to combine everything until the batter is smooth and well blended. - Pour the batter:
Pour the mixture into the prepared baking tin. Spread it evenly with a spatula, making sure to reach all corners and smooth the surface for an even bake and a crackly crust. - Bake the brownies:
Place the tin in the oven and bake for 40 to 45 minutes until the top develops a crackly crust. Test doneness by inserting a skewer into the centre; it should come out with a few moist crumbs, not wet batter. If the top browns too quickly, tent the tin with foil for the final 10 minutes of baking. - Cool completely:
Remove the tin from the oven and let the brownies cool completely in the tin. Cooling helps the brownies firm up and makes them easier to slice. - Slice and serve:
Cut the brownies into 24 squares. For neater slices, chill the brownies in the fridge for 30 minutes before slicing.
What can you serve with this
- A scoop of vanilla ice cream: Adds creamy coolness that balances the rich chocolate.
- Fresh raspberries: Their tartness cuts through the sweetness and adds vibrant flavour.
- Espresso or strong coffee: Complements the chocolate and enhances its depth.
- Whipped cream: Lightens each bite with soft texture and subtle sweetness.
FAQs for Mary Berry Chocolate Chip Brownies
- How do I know when brownies are done? The top should have a crackly crust and a skewer inserted comes out with a few moist crumbs—not raw batter.
- Can I make brownies without cocoa powder? Cocoa powder is essential for flavour and texture; try a different recipe if you don’t have it.
- Can I double the recipe? Yes, bake in two tins and adjust baking time accordingly. Start checking doneness at 40 minutes.
- Can I add nuts? Yes, roughly 75g of chopped nuts can be folded in with the chocolate chips for added texture.
- How should I store brownies? Keep them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days or freeze individually wrapped for up to 3 months.
Nutri-score Health Check
This recipe scores a C on the Nutri-Score scale, balancing rich indulgent ingredients with the benefits of cocoa powder’s antioxidants.
Positive Factors
- Cocoa powder provides antioxidants and a rich chocolate flavour without excess fat.
- Dark chocolate chips contribute to flavour intensity with some antioxidant benefits.
Negative Factors
- Butter and sugar increase saturated fat and calorie content.
- Flour adds carbohydrates contributing to total energy intake.
Note: Nutritional scoring is automated and serves as a guide. Enjoy these brownies as a delicious occasional treat.
