Chocolate and Walnut Brownies — the Classic American Dessert with a Crackly Top and a Fudgy Center

A tray of freshly baked brownies, with a thin crackly crust and a soft, chocolate-rich center — the American dessert that never disappoints. The classic recipe below is simple, quick and always a success.

Ingredients

• 200 g dark chocolate (about 70% cocoa)
• 170 g butter
• 3 large eggs
• 200 g sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 90 g flour
• 30 g cocoa powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 100 g coarsely chopped walnuts

Preparation

1. Heat the oven to 175°C and line a square pan (about 20×20 cm) with baking parchment.
2. Melt the dark chocolate with the butter in a bain-marie or in the microwave in short bursts; let it cool slightly.
3. In a large bowl, beat the eggs with the sugar and vanilla until pale and foamy.
4. Pour the melted chocolate over the eggs and fold it in gently.
5. Sift the flour, cocoa and salt over the mixture and stir until just combined — don’t overmix.
6. Add the chopped walnuts and fold them through the batter.
7. Pour the batter into the pan, level the surface and bake for 22–25 minutes: the center should stay slightly soft.
8. Let it cool completely in the pan, then cut into squares and serve.

Time and servings

Preparation takes about 15 minutes, baking 22–25 minutes. The recipe makes 12 squares — ideal for sharing with family or friends.