Fudgy Brownies with Sea Salt

There’s something universally comforting about biting into a rich, gooey brownie — especially when it’s topped with a touch of flaky sea salt. Fudgy Brownies with Sea Salt are the epitome of indulgence — dense, moist, and bursting with deep chocolate flavor.

The light sprinkle of sea salt perfectly balances the sweetness, enhancing the cocoa notes and making each bite unforgettable.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it hits the perfect brownie trifecta — shiny crackly tops, chewy edges, and a decadently fudgy center. The balance of sweet and salty elevates them from classic comfort food to pure gourmet delight.

Each bite melts in your mouth, leaving behind that deep chocolate flavor only real cocoa and melted chocolate can achieve. Plus, they’re made with everyday ingredients — no fancy equipment or techniques needed.

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

This is a must-try recipe because it’s foolproof, crowd-pleasing, and dangerously delicious. The addition of sea salt gives a sophisticated edge, making it suitable for both casual snacking and elegant dinner desserts.

Whether you’re a beginner baker or a chocolate connoisseur, these brownies are a timeless treat that guarantees compliments every single time.

Preparation & Cooking Time

• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Servings: 12 brownies
• Calories: ~240 per serving

Cuisine & Course

• Cuisine: American
• Course: Dessert / Snack / Sweet Treat

Ingredients

For the Brownies:

• ½ cup (115 g) unsalted butter, melted
• 1 cup (180 g) semi-sweet chocolate chips or chunks
• ¾ cup (150 g) granulated sugar
• ¼ cup (50 g) brown sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
• ½ cup (65 g) all-purpose flour
• ¼ cup (30 g) unsweetened cocoa powder
• ¼ tsp salt
• ½ tsp instant espresso powder (optional, enhances chocolate flavor)
• Flaky sea salt, for topping

Simple Cooking Directions

1. Preheat oven and line a baking pan.
2. Melt butter and chocolate together.
3. Whisk in sugars, eggs, and vanilla.
4. Fold in dry ingredients until just combined.
5. Pour batter into pan, sprinkle sea salt, and bake.
6. Cool, cut, and enjoy your fudgy perfection.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

Step 1: Preheat and Prep the Pan

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Line an 8×8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper, leaving a slight overhang for easy removal. Lightly grease with butter or spray.

Step 2: Melt Butter and Chocolate

• In a heatproof bowl, melt the butter and chocolate chips together using a microwave in 20-second bursts or a double boiler.
• Stir until smooth and glossy. Allow to cool slightly.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

• Whisk in granulated sugar and brown sugar until combined.
• Add eggs one at a time, whisking vigorously for about 1 minute (this helps create that shiny top).
• Stir in vanilla extract.

Step 4: Add Dry Ingredients

• Sift in flour, cocoa powder, salt, and espresso powder (if using).
• Gently fold using a spatula until just combined — do not overmix. The batter should be thick and glossy.

Step 5: Bake

• Pour batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top.
• Sprinkle lightly with flaky sea salt.
• Bake for 28–32 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with moist crumbs (not clean — that ensures fudginess).

Step 6: Cool and Slice

• Allow brownies to cool completely in the pan before lifting them out using parchment paper.
• Cut into squares and enjoy the fudgy, chocolatey goodness.

How to Serve

• Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for an indulgent dessert.
• Pair with coffee, milk, or hot chocolate for a comforting snack.
• For gatherings, dust lightly with cocoa powder or drizzle melted chocolate for presentation.

Additional Recipe Tips

• Don’t overbake — remove when the center is still slightly soft for maximum fudginess.
• Use high-quality chocolate for the best flavor.
• Chilling brownies for an hour before cutting gives cleaner edges.
• Add nuts or chocolate chunks for extra texture.
• Always sprinkle sea salt before baking, not after, for a balanced flavor infusion.

Variations

1. Nutty Brownies: Add ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans.
2. Mocha Brownies: Mix 1 tbsp instant espresso into the batter.
3. Caramel Swirl Brownies: Swirl 2 tbsp caramel sauce into the top before baking.
4. Peppermint Brownies: Add ½ tsp peppermint extract for a festive twist.
5. Peanut Butter Brownies: Drop spoonfuls of peanut butter on top and swirl gently before baking.

Freezing & Storage

• Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Refrigerator: Keeps well for up to 7 days (best slightly warmed before eating).
• Freezer: Freeze brownies (cut or whole) in a sealed container for up to 3 months.
  • To serve, thaw at room temperature for 2–3 hours.

Special Equipment Needed

• 8×8-inch baking pan
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk and spatula
• Parchment paper
• Oven and cooling rack

FAQ

Q1: How do I know when the brownies are done?
Insert a toothpick in the center — it should come out with a few moist crumbs, not wet batter. Overbaking makes brownies cakey.

Q2: Can I double this recipe?
Yes! Double all ingredients and bake in a 9×13-inch pan for about 35–38 minutes.

Q3: Can I use cocoa powder only (no chocolate)?
Yes, but add 2 more tablespoons of butter and ¼ cup extra sugar to maintain richness.

Q4: How do I get that shiny, crackly top?
Whisk the eggs and sugar vigorously before adding dry ingredients — that aeration creates the shiny crust.

Q5: Can I make these gluten-free?
Yes! Substitute almond flour or a 1:1 gluten-free baking mix for the all-purpose flour.

Conclusion

Fudgy Brownies with Sea Salt are pure bliss for chocolate lovers — rich, moist, and balanced perfectly between sweet and salty. Each bite is intensely chocolatey with that irresistible fudgy chew. Whether served warm with ice cream or enjoyed solo straight from the pan, these brownies never fail to impress. Simple ingredients, heavenly taste — the perfect treat for every occasion.