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Blackout Brownies

Decadent brownies with rich chocolate flavor, hints of espresso, and smoky cinnamon, perfect for any occasion.
Prep Time15 minutes
Cook Time35 minutes
Total Time50 minutes
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Keyword: Baking, Brownies, Chocolate, dessert, Johnny Cash
Servings: 12 pieces
Calories: 275kcal

Ingredients

Brownie Base

  • 1 cup unsalted butter The foundation for rich, moist brownies.
  • 2 cups granulated sugar Brings sweetness to balance the rich cocoa.
  • 1 cup dark brown sugar Adds depth and a hint of molasses flavor.
  • 4 large eggs Essential for structure and fudginess.
  • 1 tablespoon vanilla extract Enhances the brownies' overall flavor.

Dry Ingredients

  • 1 cup unsweetened dark cocoa powder The star ingredient, giving brownies their intense chocolate flavor.
  • 1.5 cups all-purpose flour Provides the bulk for structure.
  • 1 tablespoon instant espresso powder Elevates the chocolate flavor with a subtle coffee kick.
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon Preferably smoked cinnamon if available.
  • 1 teaspoon salt Balances sweetness and enhances flavors.

Add-ins

  • 1.5 cups semisweet chocolate chips For an extra boost of chocolate goodness.

Instructions

Preparation

  • Start by melting the unsalted butter in a medium-sized saucepan over medium heat.
  • Once the butter is melted, remove from heat and stir in both granulated and dark brown sugar until smooth.
  • Beat in each egg individually, ensuring it's fully incorporated before adding the next.
  • Stir in the vanilla extract, instant espresso powder, and ground cinnamon.
  • In a separate bowl, whisk together the cocoa powder, all-purpose flour, and salt. Gradually incorporate into the wet ingredients until just combined.
  • Gently fold in the semisweet chocolate chips.
  • Pour the brownie batter into a greased 9×13-inch baking pan, smoothing it out evenly.

Baking

  • Place in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) and bake for 30–35 minutes.
  • Look for edges that are set, and a toothpick should come out with just a few moist crumbs.

Serving

  • Let the brownies cool completely in the pan before cutting into squares.

Notes

For extra fudginess, avoid overmixing the batter after adding dry ingredients. Variations like using milk chocolate chips or adding cayenne pepper can enhance flavor.