Chocolate Brownies

Quick and Easy Chocolate Brownies

Ingredients:

- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter

- 1 cup granulated sugar

- 2 large eggs

- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

- 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder

- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour

- 1/4 teaspoon salt

- 1/4 teaspoon baking powder

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease an 8x8-inch (20x20 cm) baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.

2. In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the butter in the microwave in 20-second increments until it's completely melted. Alternatively, you can melt the butter on the stovetop in a small saucepan over low heat.

3. Stir the granulated sugar into the melted butter until well combined.

4. Add the eggs and vanilla extract to the butter-sugar mixture and whisk until smooth.

5. In a separate bowl, sift the cocoa powder to remove any lumps.

6. Gradually add the sifted cocoa powder, all-purpose flour, salt, and baking powder to the wet ingredients. Mix until the batter is smooth and well combined, but be careful not to overmix.

7. Pour the brownie batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly.

8. Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick or cake tester inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs (not wet batter).

9. Remove the brownies from the oven and allow them to cool in the pan for a bit.

10. Once they've cooled slightly, you can cut them into squares or rectangles and enjoy your delicious homemade chocolate brownies!

Note: You can add chocolate chips, nuts, or any other favorite mix-ins to the batter before baking if you like. Enjoy your brownies warm with a scoop of ice cream or a glass of milk for an extra treat!