Brownie with nuts
Nut Brownie - An Easy-to-Make Delight
I invite you to discover the delicious universe of brownies, a dessert that has won the hearts of chocolate lovers around the world. These dense and moist cakes, with a rich texture, are perfect for satisfying any sweet craving. With a mix of chocolate, crunchy nuts, and a subtle hint of vanilla, the nut brownie will quickly become your favorite.
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 20 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes
Number of servings: 12
Ingredients
- 150 g baking chocolate (choose a quality chocolate with at least 70% cocoa content for an intense flavor)
- 200 g butter (you can use 80% fat butter for a richer texture)
- 200 g sugar (white sugar is standard, but you can experiment with brown sugar for a caramelized taste)
- 80 g flour (regular wheat flour is ideal, but you can also try whole wheat flour)
- 7 g baking powder (make sure it is fresh for a fluffy cake)
- 4 eggs (preferably at room temperature for better emulsification)
- A handful of shelled nuts (pecans or regular walnuts add a crunchy texture)
- 3 squares of chocolate (for an extra chocolatey touch)
- Vanilla or almond essence (choose your preferred essence to add a splash of flavor)
Preparation
1. Beat the eggs with the sugar: In a large bowl, crack the four eggs and add the sugar. Use a whisk to beat them together until you achieve a smooth, light blond cream. This step is essential for incorporating air, which will make the brownies fluffier.
2. Melt the butter and chocolate: In a saucepan over low heat, place the butter cut into cubes. When it melts, add the chocolate broken into small pieces. Stir constantly until the chocolate is completely melted. Alternatively, you can use a double boiler method to prevent the chocolate from burning.
3. Combine the ingredients: Once the chocolate is fully melted, turn off the heat and let it cool slightly. Add the beaten eggs, starting with one tablespoon at a time, stirring continuously to prevent the eggs from coagulating. Then, add the vanilla or almond essence, which will provide a wonderful aroma.
4. Add the nuts and flour: In another bowl, mix the broken nuts with the flour and baking powder. This will help evenly distribute the nuts in the batter, preventing them from sinking to the bottom of the pan. Fold the nut and flour mixture into the chocolate mixture, stirring gently with a whisk until smooth.
5. Prepare the pan: Grease a baking pan with butter or line it with parchment paper. Pour the mixture into the pan, leveling it evenly. This will help the brownies bake evenly.
6. Add chocolate pieces: Cut the chocolate squares and sprinkle them on top of the batter. They will melt during baking, creating a decadent and delicious effect.
7. Bake the brownie: Preheat the oven to 180°C and place the pan inside. Bake for 20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs, but not wet. Do not overbake to keep the soft texture.
8. Cooling and serving: Let the brownie cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. Cut it into squares and serve warm or at room temperature, with a generous scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream. If you don’t have ice cream, don’t worry, brownies also enjoy a splash of whipped cream!
Practical Tips
- Why choose quality chocolate?: High-quality chocolate will significantly influence the final taste of the brownies. Choose chocolate with a higher cocoa content for a more intense flavor and deep aroma.
- Experiment with nuts: If you want to add a touch of diversity, try using almonds or hazelnuts. You can even lightly roast the nuts before adding them to the mixture to enhance the flavor.
- Gluten-free option: If you want a gluten-free version, swap regular flour for almond flour or rice flour. This will bring a slightly different texture and taste, but just as delicious.
Calories and Nutritional Benefits
Each serving of nut brownie contains approximately 250 calories, but also brings a considerable dose of antioxidants from chocolate, healthy fats from nuts, and protein from eggs. It is a dessert that, when consumed in moderation, can be part of a balanced diet!
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I add fruits to the brownie?
Yes, you can add pieces of dried fruits like coconut or cherries for a touch of freshness.
2. How can I store the brownies?
Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature to keep them moist. They can be consumed for up to 5 days.
3. Can I freeze the brownies?
Yes, brownies can be frozen! Just make sure to wrap them well in cling film and place them in an airtight container.
Serving Suggestions
This nut brownie pairs perfectly with a cup of coffee or herbal tea. It is also ideal to serve at a party or a gathering with friends, bringing a smile to everyone’s face with each bite.
Try this simple and quick nut brownie recipe and enjoy a dessert that will keep you coming back for an extra portion. Enjoy!
Ingredients: 150g chocolate for baking, 200g butter, 200g sugar, 80g flour, 7g baking powder, 4 eggs, a handful of shelled nuts, 3 squares of chocolate from the fridge, vanilla or almond essence.