Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These brownies stand out thanks to their irresistible texture—crispy, shiny tops with soft, gooey centers. Browning the butter adds a warm, caramel-like richness that elevates the chocolate flavor. They’re easy to make, require simple ingredients, and are perfect for both casual cravings and special occasions.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
unsalted butter
granulated sugar
brown sugar
eggs
vanilla extract
all-purpose flour
cocoa powder
dark chocolate
salt
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 175°C (350°F) and line a baking pan with parchment paper.
- In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat and continue cooking until it turns golden brown and smells nutty. Remove from heat.
- Stir in the chopped dark chocolate until melted and smooth.
- In a bowl, whisk together granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, and vanilla until thick and glossy.
- Slowly mix in the warm brown butter and chocolate mixture.
- Sift in flour, cocoa powder, and salt, then gently fold until just combined.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top.
- Bake for 20–25 minutes until the top is shiny and crackled, and the center is just set.
- Let the brownies cool completely before slicing for clean edges.
Servings and timing
Servings: 9–12 brownies
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 20–25 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes
Variations
Add chocolate chips or chunks for extra richness. Mix in walnuts or pecans for crunch. For a salted twist, sprinkle flaky sea salt on top before baking. You can also swirl in peanut butter or caramel for added flavor.
Storage/Reheating
Store brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days. To reheat, microwave for 10–15 seconds for a warm, gooey texture.
FAQs
What is brown butter and why use it?
Brown butter is butter cooked until the milk solids toast, giving it a nutty, rich flavor that enhances baked goods.
How do I know when the butter is browned?
It will turn golden brown and have a nutty aroma. Watch closely to avoid burning.
How do I get a crinkle top?
Whisk the eggs and sugar well until glossy and slightly thick—this helps create that signature top.
Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate?
Yes, but the brownies will be sweeter and less intense in flavor.
Why are my brownies not fudgy?
Overbaking or adding too much flour can lead to a cakier texture.
Can I make these gluten-free?
Yes, substitute with a gluten-free flour blend.
Can I freeze brownies?
Yes, wrap them tightly and freeze for up to 2 months.
How do I cut brownies cleanly?
Let them cool completely and use a sharp knife, wiping it between cuts.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, just use a larger pan and adjust baking time as needed.
What pan size works best?
An 8×8-inch (20×20 cm) pan is ideal for thick, fudgy brownies.
Conclusion
Brown Butter Crinkle Top Brownies are the ultimate indulgence, combining deep chocolate flavor with a rich, nutty twist and a perfectly crackly top. Easy to make and impossible to resist, they’re a must-try for any chocolate lover.
PrintBrown Butter Crinkle Top Brownies
Brown Butter Crinkle Top Brownies are rich, fudgy treats with a deep nutty flavor and a glossy, crackly top. These bakery-style brownies deliver intense chocolate goodness in every bite.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 9–12 brownies
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- unsalted butter
- granulated sugar
- brown sugar
- eggs
- vanilla extract
- all-purpose flour
- cocoa powder
- dark chocolate
- salt
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 175°C (350°F) and line a baking pan with parchment paper.
- Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat and continue cooking until golden brown and nutty in aroma. Remove from heat.
- Stir in chopped dark chocolate until melted and smooth.
- In a bowl, whisk granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, and vanilla until thick and glossy.
- Slowly mix in the warm brown butter and chocolate mixture.
- Sift in flour, cocoa powder, and salt, then gently fold until just combined.
- Pour batter into prepared pan and smooth the top.
- Bake for 20–25 minutes until the top is shiny and crackled and the center is just set.
- Let cool completely before slicing.
Notes
- Add chocolate chips or chunks for extra richness.
- Mix in nuts like walnuts or pecans for crunch.
- Sprinkle flaky sea salt on top for a sweet-salty finish.
- Store at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate up to 5 days.
- Microwave briefly for a warm, gooey texture.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 brownie
- Calories: 280 kcal
- Sugar: 22 g
- Sodium: 120 mg
- Fat: 16 g
- Saturated Fat: 10 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 32 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 4 g
- Cholesterol: 65 mg
