Name: Ultimate Homemade Chocolate Brownies with Toasted Walnuts Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 150 g dark chocolate (50–60% cocoa); 120 g unsalted butter; 160 g white sugar; 75 g brown sugar; 3 large eggs, room temperature (use 2 eggs for fudgier brownies); 1½ tsp vanilla extract; 90 g all-purpose flour; 30 g unsweetened cocoa powder; 1 tsp salt; 50 g toasted walnuts, chopped (up to 80 g if you prefer extra nuts)

Jump to Recipe· 4.2 from 15 reviews

If you have a soft spot for rich, chocolaty treats that strike the perfect balance between fudgy and chewy, then you are absolutely going to adore this Ultimate Homemade Chocolate Brownies with Toasted Walnuts Recipe. This recipe delivers that dreamy, shiny crackly top that cracks just right, revealing a moist and luscious center complemented by toasted walnuts that add a delightful crunch. It’s a classic recipe with a twist of texture that makes each bite an irresistible experience, guaranteed to become your new go-to whenever you crave a slice of homemade chocolate heaven.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows nine bowls and containers arranged on a white marbled surface. There are three brown eggs in a small brown bowl at the bottom center, next to a small black bottle with a spout on the right. Above the eggs is a white bowl filled with white flour, and to its right a white bowl with cocoa powder. Above the cocoa powder is a white bowl with light brown sugar, and to the left is a small glass bowl filled with walnut halves. In the center is a small white plate with a block of butter. To the right of the butter is a larger white bowl filled with granulated white sugar, and to the left above the walnuts is a small clear bowl with chunks of dark chocolate. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

This Ultimate Homemade Chocolate Brownies with Toasted Walnuts Recipe uses a handful of simple, pantry-friendly ingredients that each play an essential role in crafting the perfect brownie. From the deep cocoa flavor to the velvety texture, every ingredient is key to this beloved dessert’s success.

150 g dark chocolate (50–60% cocoa): Provides rich, intense chocolate flavor without overwhelming sweetness.
120 g unsalted butter: Adds smoothness and helps achieve that luscious fudgy texture.
160 g white sugar: Sweetens the brownies and contributes to the shiny, crackly top.
75 g brown sugar: Brings moisture and a subtle caramel note to deepen the flavor.
3 large eggs, room temperature: Essential for structure and volume, with an option to use only 2 for fudgier brownies.
1½ tsp vanilla extract: Enhances the chocolate and adds a lovely aromatic touch.
90 g all-purpose flour: Provides the right balance of crumb without making the brownies cakey.
30 g unsweetened cocoa powder: Intensifies the chocolate flavor and adds depth.
1 tsp salt: Balances sweetness and enhances all the chocolatey notes.
50 g toasted walnuts, chopped (optional): Adds just the right crunch and a nutty contrast to the smooth chocolate.

How to Make Ultimate Homemade Chocolate Brownies with Toasted Walnuts Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pan

Start by preheating your oven to 170°C (340°F) if you’re baking without a fan, or 160°C (320°F) with a fan. Line an 8×8 inch (20×26 cm) metal baking pan with parchment paper for easy removal of your brownies. To make the parchment stick perfectly, lightly grease the pan first with butter, oil, or nonstick spray. This sets you up for a smooth baking process and makes cleanup a breeze.

Step 2: Melt Chocolate and Butter

Chop the dark chocolate and butter into small pieces and melt them together until silky smooth. The best way is with a double boiler: place the bowl over simmering water, stirring gently until melted. You can also microwave in short bursts, stirring often to prevent burning. Once melted and smooth, remove from heat but keep warm. This glossy mixture is what gives your brownies that luscious, fudgy core.

Step 3: Whip the Eggs and Sugars

Using an electric hand mixer, beat the eggs with both white and brown sugars until the mixture is pale, thick, and has increased significantly in volume. This crucial step takes around five minutes and it’s what creates the iconic shiny, crinkly top on your brownies. Don’t rush it—it’s worth the wait for that perfect texture.

Step 4: Combine Chocolate Mixture with Egg Mixture

Gently fold the warm chocolate-butter mixture into the beaten eggs and sugar along with the vanilla extract. Be careful as you fold to avoid scrambling the eggs—pour in slowly while folding delicately with a spatula to maintain that airy texture.

Step 5: Add Dry Ingredients

Sift together the flour, cocoa powder, and salt, then fold them gently into the chocolate mixture until no dry streaks remain. Overmixing here can make the brownies tough and dense, so gentle folding is key to preserving that fudgy softness.

Step 6: Fold in the Toasted Walnuts

If you’re using toasted walnuts, fold them in evenly now. The walnuts add a lovely crunch and a subtle nutty flavor that perfectly complements the rich chocolate without overpowering it.

Step 7: Bake to Perfection

Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pan and bake on the middle rack. For a gooier, fudgier center, bake for 25 minutes; for a more set texture, extend baking to 35-40 minutes. Use a toothpick to test—ideally, it should come out with moist crumbs, not wet batter. Let your brownies cool completely, at least two hours, preferably on a wire rack, for clean slicing and that perfect chewy bite.

How to Serve Ultimate Homemade Chocolate Brownies with Toasted Walnuts Recipe

A single thick square piece of dark brown brownie sits on a white plate, showing two layers: a moist, dense bottom layer with visible chunks of light-colored nuts and a thin, slightly cracked, dry top layer with a shiny texture. The brownie is centered on the plate, which rests on a wooden surface, and the background is a white marbled texture with blurred brown brick visible at the top. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Serving these brownies with a light dusting of powdered sugar or an extra sprinkle of chopped toasted walnuts elevates their appearance and adds to the textural delight. For an indulgent treat, drizzle warm caramel or chocolate sauce on top, or add a dollop of whipped cream for contrast.

Side Dishes

Brownies pair wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, which balances the rich chocolate with cool creaminess. Fresh berries such as raspberries or strawberries add a refreshing burst of flavor and a touch of acidity. For coffee lovers, serving alongside a robust espresso highlights the deep chocolate notes perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving these Ultimate Homemade Chocolate Brownies with Toasted Walnuts Recipe as mini brownie bites on skewers with fruit or marshmallows for a fun party platter. Alternatively, layer sliced brownies with whipped cream and fresh fruit for an impressive, layered dessert parfait.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once fully cooled, brownies can be kept in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, maintaining their chewy, fudgy texture. If you want a softer texture, storing in the fridge works too but may make them denser.

Freezing

This recipe freezes exceptionally well. Wrap brownies tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil to prevent freezer burn. Freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator or at room temperature for a few hours.

Reheating

To revive the fresh-baked feel, warm individual brownie pieces in the microwave for 10-15 seconds. This partially melts the chocolate within, enhancing that gooey experience. Just be careful not to overheat, which can dry them out.

FAQs

Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate in this Ultimate Homemade Chocolate Brownies with Toasted Walnuts Recipe?

Milk chocolate can be used, but it will result in a sweeter, less intense chocolate flavor. Dark chocolate offers the perfect bitter-sweet balance that gives these brownies their depth.

Are walnuts necessary for this recipe?

Walnuts are optional but highly recommended for their crunchy contrast and nutty flavor. You can omit them or substitute with other nuts like pecans if preferred.

How do I get the crackly top on my brownies?

The key is beating the eggs and sugars vigorously for about 5 minutes until pale and thick. This aerates the batter and creates that signature shiny, crackly crust during baking.

Can I make these brownies fudgier?

Yes! Using only 2 eggs instead of 3 will make the brownies denser and fudgier, as will baking them for the shorter 25-minute time for a moister center.

What if I don’t have parchment paper?

You can grease and flour the baking pan, but parchment paper makes cleanup much easier and helps prevent sticking, which is especially helpful with these rich brownies.

Final Thoughts

This Ultimate Homemade Chocolate Brownies with Toasted Walnuts Recipe is truly a game changer for brownie lovers everywhere. Its perfect balance of fudgy texture, shiny top, and that subtle crunch from toasted walnuts will quickly become a staple in your baking repertoire. Don’t hesitate—grab your ingredients and treat yourself and your loved ones to the magic of homemade brownies that everyone will rave about.