These decadent Raspberry Brownies are a perfect blend of rich, fudgy chocolate and tart, juicy raspberries. The combination of dark chocolate, fresh raspberries, and a hint of sweetness makes them irresistible. Whether you serve them plain or with a scoop of ice cream, these brownies are sure to be a hit at any gathering. The addition of raspberries adds a delightful tartness that perfectly offsets the deep, velvety chocolate, creating a delightful flavor experience that’s both classic and modern.

Ingredients

• Granulated Sugar: 1 cup (200 grams)
• Brown Sugar: 1 cup (200 grams)
• Unsalted Butter: 1 cup (225 grams), melted
• Large Eggs: 4
• Pure Vanilla Extract: 1 tablespoon
• All-Purpose Flour: 1 cup (120 grams)
• Dutch-processed Cocoa Powder: 1 cup (120 grams)
• Kosher Salt: 1 teaspoon
• Chopped Chocolate: 1 1/4 cups (250 grams), divided
• Fresh Raspberries: 1 1/2 cups (190 grams)
• Nonstick Cooking Spray: For greasing the pan

Instructions

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Spray a 9×13-inch metal baking pan with nonstick cooking spray and line it with parchment paper, ensuring the parchment paper overhangs the sides for easy removal.

2. Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the melted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until the sugar is dissolved. Add the eggs one at a time, whisking well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.

3. Combine Dry Ingredients: Sift the flour, cocoa powder, and salt into the mixing bowl. Stir with a spatula until combined, being careful not to overmix.

4. Add Chocolate and Raspberries: Fold in 1 cup of chopped chocolate and the raspberries. Stir carefully so you don’t break up the raspberries.

5. Prepare Pan: Spread the batter evenly into the prepared pan. Sprinkle the remaining ¼ cup of chopped chocolate on top of the brownies.

6. Bake Brownies: Bake for 25-30 minutes on the middle rack in the oven until the brownies are just set to touch. Don’t overbake; they will set up as they cool.

7. Cool and Serve: Remove from oven and let cool completely in the pan before cutting into squares. Serve plain or with a scoop of your favorite ice cream.

Top Tips

1. Use High-Quality Chocolate: The quality of your chocolate will significantly impact the taste of your brownies. Choose a high-quality chocolate with at least 50% cocoa content for the best results.

2. Don’t Overmix: Overmixing can lead to dense brownies. Mix the ingredients just until they are combined, and then stop mixing.

3. Respect Raspberries: Fold in the raspberries gently to avoid breaking them. This will ensure that the tartness and texture of the raspberries are preserved.

4. Check for Doneness: Use a toothpick to check if the brownies are done. If the toothpick comes out with moist crumbs, they are ready. If it comes out clean, they are overbaked.

5. Cool Completely: Letting the brownies cool completely in the pan helps them set properly and makes them easier to cut.

6. Freeze for Later: These brownies freeze well. Simply wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store in the freezer for up to 2 months.

Variations

1. Strawberry Brownies: Replace raspberries with fresh strawberries for a different flavor profile.

2. Blueberry Brownies: Use fresh or frozen blueberries for a sweet and tangy twist.

3. Nutty Brownies: Add chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for added texture and flavor.

4. Peanut Butter Swirl: Swirl peanut butter on top of the brownies before baking for an extra layer of flavor.

5. Espresso Powder: Add a teaspoon of espresso powder to enhance the chocolate flavor and create a mocha twist.

6. Coconut Flakes: Sprinkle shredded coconut flakes on top of the brownies for a tropical twist.

Nutritional Guide

Additional Nutritional Notes: These brownies are rich in antioxidants from the dark chocolate and provide a good source of fiber from the raspberries. They are best enjoyed in moderation due to their high sugar content. However, they make a delightful treat for special occasions or as a comforting dessert any time of the year.