Step-by-step instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease and flour a 9×5 inch loaf pan.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the melted butter and sugar, stirring until well blended.
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition, and then incorporate the vanilla extract.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the cocoa powder, flour, salt, and baking powder.
- Gradually add the dry mix to the wet mix, folding gently until everything is just combined; avoid overmixing.
- If you’re using chocolate chips, fold them into the batter now.
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.
- Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with moist crumbs.
- Allow to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Best ways to enjoy it
Once baked and cooled, this brownie bread can be enjoyed plain or dressed up a bit. Slice it and serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side for a decadent dessert. You can also top it with whipped cream, a drizzle of chocolate syrup, or even some fresh berries for a refreshing contrast to its richness. It’s perfect for breakfast, a snack, or dessert.
Keeping leftovers fresh
If you have any brownie bread left over (although it’s hard to imagine!), it’s important to store it properly. Wrap the loaf in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to keep it moist, and place it in an airtight container at room temperature. For longer storage, consider freezing slices. Just wrap them individually in plastic wrap, and then place them in a freezer bag; they should stay good for up to three months.
Helpful cooking tips
- Make sure the butter is melted but not too hot before adding the sugar; otherwise, it can cook the eggs when you mix them in.
- If you want a deeper chocolate flavor, don’t hesitate to add an extra tablespoon of cocoa powder—your taste buds will thank you.
- For an even fudgier texture, bake for the shorter time and check for moist crumbs, as the bread will continue to cook slightly as it cools.
Creative twists
Want to shake things up? Consider adding a splash of coffee to enhance the chocolate flavor. Alternatively, if you’re feeling adventurous, add a teaspoon of peppermint extract for a minty twist. For a more health-conscious option, try substituting half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour or even almond flour to add some nuttiness.
Common questions
What is the prep time for brownie bread?
This recipe will take about 15-20 minutes of active preparation time, with roughly 40-45 minutes of baking.
Can I make substitutions for the butter?
Yes! You can use coconut oil or unsweetened applesauce (for a low-fat variation) in place of unsalted butter, though the texture and flavor may differ slightly.
How long can I store brownie bread?
At room temperature, it’s best consumed within 3-4 days, but you can freeze it for up to 3 months to extend its freshness. Just make sure to wrap it well!
Enjoy baking and relishing the delightful experience of making Perfect Brownie Bread! You’ll find that this chocolatey loaf brings smiles and happy moments to any occasion.
