Name: Small Batch Fudgy Brownies Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: PT-489973H11M45S
Total time: PT-489973H11M45S
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1/4 cup unsalted butter (melted); 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips; 1/2 cup white sugar; 1 egg (room temperature); 1 tbsp vanilla extract; 1/2 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/4 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips; Flaky sea salt

If you’ve ever craved rich, chocolatey goodness without the overwhelming quantity of a full batch, this Small Batch Fudgy Brownies Recipe is your new best friend. These brownies are perfectly dense and decadently fudgy, with a shiny crackle top that whispers of the chocolate magic within. Made in just a half-pan, they’re ideal for intimate gatherings, a special treat for yourself, or anytime you want that melt-in-your-mouth satisfaction without leftovers looming. Get ready to fall in love with a simple, yet undeniably irresistible brownie experience!

Ingredients You’ll Need

A clear glass bowl holds two main layers: the bottom layer is a shiny, spread-out pool of melted bright yellow butter with small bubbles on the surface, while the top layer is a thick pile of dark brown, round chocolate chips clustering in the center. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface with soft, natural light reflecting off the shiny sides and contents. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

This recipe calls for a handful of straightforward ingredients, each carefully selected to create the perfect balance of flavor, texture, and that inviting deep chocolate color. Nothing fancy, just essentials that come together beautifully in every bite.

Unsalted butter (1/4 cup, melted): Adds richness and helps create that luscious fudgy texture we all adore.
Semi-sweet chocolate chips (1/2 cup + 1/4 cup): The heart of the brownie, providing smooth melted chocolate within and delightful pockets of melty bits throughout.
White sugar (1/2 cup): Sweetness that balances the cocoa’s bitterness and contributes to the shiny crackle top.
Egg (1, room temperature): Binds the batter and adds moistness while helping create a tender crumb.
Vanilla extract (1 tbsp): Elevates the chocolate flavor with warm, aromatic notes.
All-purpose flour (1/2 cup): Provides just enough structure without drying out the brownies.
Unsweetened cocoa powder (1/2 cup): Delivers intense chocolate flavor and that signature dark hue.
Salt (1/2 tsp): Enhances the overall flavor and balances the sweetness perfectly.

TIP

You’ll find the full ingredient list, instructions, and print option in the recipe card below.

How to Make Small Batch Fudgy Brownies Recipe

Step 1: Prep Your Pan and Oven

Start by heating your oven to 350°F and preparing your brownie pan — an 8×4 or 9×5 inch pan works perfectly. Greasing it well is key, but for the easiest removal, line the bottom and two sides with parchment paper, then grease again on the sides. This simple step saves you any brownie heartbreak when it’s time to slice and serve.

Step 2: Melt Butter and Chocolate

Melt the butter gently, then while it’s still warm, stir in half of your semi-sweet chocolate chips. Whisk until the mixture is silky smooth. Let this cool for about 10 minutes; cooling prevents cooking the egg in the next step and helps keep your batter silky.

Step 3: Add Cocoa and Sugar

Whisk in the cocoa powder and sugar into your chocolate-butter mixture. It might look a little grainy or thick, and that’s perfectly normal. This is where the deep chocolate flavor begins to bloom.

Step 4: Incorporate Egg and Vanilla

Beat in your egg and vanilla extract vigorously for 1-2 minutes. This step is essential because whisking well introduces air into the batter, which helps give your brownies that coveted shiny, crackled top.

Step 5: Fold in Flour, Salt, and Extra Chocolate Chips

Gently fold the flour and salt into your wet mixture using a spatula until you get a soft brownie batter—but don’t overmix! Then stir in the remaining chocolate chips for that extra melty, gooey surprise in every bite.

Step 6: Bake with Love

Pour your batter evenly into your prepped pan, smoothing the top. Feel free to scatter a few extra chocolate chips on top for a luscious look and extra chocolate bursts. Bake for 20-25 minutes. Start checking at 20 minutes—the edges should be set but the middle still slightly underbaked and fudgy, with a toothpick coming out with moist crumbs but no wet batter.

Step 7: Finish and Enjoy

Once out of the oven, sprinkle with flaky sea salt if you love a hint of savory contrast. Let the brownies cool before slicing to get perfect, fudgy squares. Now get ready to indulge in your little slice of chocolate heaven!

How to Serve Small Batch Fudgy Brownies Recipe

A close-up top view of a white rectangular baking dish filled with thick, dark brown chocolate batter spread evenly, with a slightly rough texture visible from spreading. Chocolate chips are scattered unevenly on top, some sunk in slightly, others resting on the surface. The dish is lined with brown parchment paper that extends over the edges on two sides, showing wrinkles and slight folds. The background is a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A sprinkle of flaky sea salt enhances the chocolate’s richness beautifully. Try a light dusting of powdered sugar for a classic look, or add chopped nuts or fresh berries for a fresh twist.

Side Dishes

Serve these fudgy brownies alongside a scoop of cold vanilla ice cream for the ultimate comfort dessert. A dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce also pairs wonderfully and adds layers of texture and flavor.

Creative Ways to Present

Want to impress guests? Cut your brownies into bite-sized squares and serve on a platter with toothpicks for easy sharing. Or sandwich two brownies with peanut butter or cream cheese frosting for a decadent treat that looks and tastes amazing.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Wrap your brownies tightly in plastic wrap or store in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay moist and fudgy for up to 3 days, making them great for snacking anytime throughout the week.

Freezing

For longer storage, freeze brownies in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. To prevent freezer burn, separate layers with parchment paper. This way, you can enjoy Small Batch Fudgy Brownies Recipe any time without the fuss of starting fresh.

Reheating

Reheat your brownies gently in the microwave for 15-20 seconds or warm them in a low oven just until soft. This briefly restores their gooey, fudgy texture as if they were freshly baked just for you.

FAQs

Can I use dark chocolate instead of semi-sweet chips?

Absolutely! Using dark chocolate chips will deepen the chocolate flavor and add a hint of bitterness, which balances sweetness nicely. Just keep the quantity the same.

Is it okay to substitute all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour?

You can substitute with a gluten-free blend designed for baking. Be sure it already contains xanthan gum for structure, or your brownies might turn out crumbly.

Why do my brownies come out cakey instead of fudgy?

Overmixing the batter or baking too long can dry brownies out and give a cakey texture. Fold the flour gently and check for doneness early. The center should be slightly underbaked.

Can I halve this recipe even further?

This small batch is already quite modest, but you can reduce it carefully—just be mindful that baking times may shorten and measuring small quantities requires extra accuracy.

What makes the shiny crackle top on brownies?

It’s all in the sugar and egg whisking! Whipping the egg with sugar well incorporates air and creates that iconic, glossy surface loved by brownie enthusiasts everywhere.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about a dessert that feels homemade yet fits perfectly into a small batch. This Small Batch Fudgy Brownies Recipe delivers that perfect balance of rich chocolate flavor and irresistible fudgy texture in just the right portion. I can’t wait for you to try it and experience that warm, cozy joy baked right in every bite. Whether it’s a quiet night in or a sweet surprise for friends, these brownies will quickly become a beloved favorite. Happy baking!