
If you crave a brownie that is fudgy and packed with melty chocolate chunks throughout each bite, this recipe hits the spot for any serious chocolate lover. These chocolate chip brownies bake up thick, gooey and loaded with rich chocolate flavor thanks to chocolate chips mixed in the batter and an extra scatter right on top.
I first brought these brownies to a family barbecue and they vanished in minutes. Now whenever I need a foolproof chocolate dessert for a get-together, this is always my go-to.
Ingredients
- Butter: for rich flavor and chewy moistness choose good quality unsalted butter if possible
- Cocoa powder: gives deep chocolate notes opt for Dutch process if available for extra richness
- Vanilla: for warm bakery aroma pure extract brings the best results
- Brown sugar: adds caramel tones and helps create a soft crumb use fresh light or dark brown sugar
- Eggs: to bind everything together and add structure large eggs at room temperature work best
- All-purpose flour: provides just enough body to hold the fudgy center sift before measuring for accuracy
- Salt: balances the sweetness and sharpens flavor use fine sea salt if you have it
- Chocolate chips: double chocolate goodness quality chips melt the best try semisweet or dark chocolate for deeper flavor
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Pan:
- Line an 8 by 8 inch baking pan with parchment paper. This ensures easy removal and clean slices every time.
- Melt and Whisk the Base:
- Melt butter in a large mixing bowl either in the microwave or over gentle heat. Whisk in cocoa powder and vanilla until completely smooth with no lumps.
- Blend Sugar and Eggs:
- Add brown sugar and eggs to the butter mixture. Whisk with energy or use an electric mixer until the mixture looks creamy and begins to lighten in color.
- Combine Dry Ingredients:
- Sprinkle flour and salt over the wet ingredients. Beat until no flour streaks remain but avoid overmixing to keep the brownies tender.
- Add Chocolate Chips:
- Stir in about half of the chocolate chips by hand saving the rest for topping. This helps distribute chocolate throughout the brownies.
- Fill the Pan and Top:
- Spread batter evenly in your prepared pan smoothing the top. Sprinkle remaining chocolate chips over the surface and gently press them in.
- Bake and Test:
- Bake at 350 Fahrenheit for about 40 to 45 minutes. The edges should set and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with just a few moist crumbs.
- Cool and Slice:
- Let brownies cool in the pan before lifting out and slicing to keep the squares neat and the texture fudgy.

My favorite part is how pockets of warm chocolate chips surprise you in every slice. I remember baking these with my sister on rainy days while the kitchen filled with chocolatey warmth.
Storage Tips
Store brownies in an airtight container once cooled to preserve their softness. They stay moist at room temperature for up to three days or refrigerate for longer freshness. For the ultimate treat, warm a sliced brownie a few seconds in the microwave to restore the gooey texture.
Ingredient Substitutions
You can swap the butter with plant based spread for dairy free brownies without losing chewiness. For an extra punch of chocolate, try mixing in a handful of chopped dark chocolate along with the chips. If you only have white sugar, add a drop of molasses to mimic brown sugar.
Serving Suggestions
Serve brownies on their own or take them over the top with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. For a fancier finish, drizzle with chocolate sauce or add a dusting of powdered sugar. They also pack well for picnics or school lunch treats.

Cultural Context
Brownies became an iconic American dessert more than a century ago and have since spread worldwide in countless variations. The combo of a rich cocoa base and melty chocolate bits gives a nod to both classic fudge brownies and chocolate chip cookies—uniting two favorites in one pan.
Recipe FAQs
- → How do I achieve a fudgy texture in brownies?
Using melted butter, cocoa powder, and the right balance of eggs helps create a rich, moist texture. Avoid overbaking for the ideal fudgy result.
- → Can I use other types of chocolate chips?
Yes, you can swap semi-sweet chips for dark, milk, or even white chocolate to suit your preference.
- → Why line the pan with parchment paper?
Lining the pan ensures easy removal of brownies and helps prevent sticking, making cleanup simpler.
- → How do I know when brownies are done?
A toothpick inserted should come out with a few moist crumbs but not wet batter. Start checking at the lower bake time.
- → Can I add nuts to the batter?
Chopped walnuts or pecans can be mixed into the batter for added crunch and flavor.