Fudgy Brownies with Walnuts
Introduction
Few desserts capture the heart of chocolate lovers like a pan of rich, fudgy brownies. And when you fold in toasted walnuts, you elevate them with a delightful crunch that contrasts the gooey texture. At Best Bread Machine, we celebrate those comforting, timeless recipes that can be made with ease and shared with joy. These fudgy brownies with walnuts are not just a sweet treat—they’re a family tradition waiting to be created.
Whether you’re baking for a school event, a weekend indulgence, or just because you need a chocolate fix, this brownie recipe is reliable, simple, and wonderfully satisfying.
What Makes a Brownie Fudgy?
Fudgy brownies have a dense, moist center that almost melts in your mouth. Unlike cakey brownies, they have more fat (like butter or chocolate) than flour and are baked just enough to hold together while remaining gooey.
Adding walnuts gives texture and depth to the richness of the chocolate, creating balance in every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe yields about 16 brownies.
Dry Ingredients:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder (preferably Dutch-process)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients:
- 1 cup unsalted butter (2 sticks)
- 8 ounces semisweet chocolate (chopped or chips)
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup light brown sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
Add-Ins:
- 1 cup chopped walnuts (lightly toasted for best flavor)
Optional Garnish:
- Extra walnut halves for topping
- Sea salt flakes for sprinkling
Equipment Needed
- 9×13 inch baking pan
- Parchment paper
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk and spatula
- Saucepan or microwave-safe bowl for melting
- Wire cooling rack
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line your baking pan with parchment paper, leaving a slight overhang for easy removal.
2. Melt the Chocolate and Butter
In a medium saucepan or microwave-safe bowl, melt the butter and chocolate together over low heat, stirring constantly until smooth. Let it cool slightly.
3. Whisk in the Sugars and Eggs
Whisk in the granulated sugar and brown sugar until the mixture is glossy and thick. Then add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
4. Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, and salt. Gradually fold the dry mixture into the wet mixture using a spatula or wooden spoon.
5. Add Walnuts
Fold in the chopped walnuts until evenly distributed. If desired, reserve some to sprinkle on top.
6. Bake
Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top. Bake for 28–32 minutes or until a toothpick inserted near the edge comes out clean but the center is still a bit moist.
Do not overbake—the key to fudgy brownies is slightly undercooked centers.
7. Cool and Slice
Allow to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. Once cool, lift out using the parchment and cut into squares. Wipe the knife between slices for neat edges.
Tips for the Best Fudgy Brownies
- Use quality chocolate: The better the chocolate, the deeper the flavor
- Do not overmix: Stir just until combined to avoid a cakey texture
- Toast the walnuts: Enhances flavor and crunch
- Cool fully before slicing: Helps maintain clean edges
- Customize it: Add chocolate chips or swirl in peanut butter or cream cheese
Make-Ahead and Storage
Fudgy brownies keep well and can be made ahead:
- Room temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days
- Refrigerate: For longer freshness, refrigerate for up to 1 week
- Freeze: Wrap individually and freeze for up to 3 months; thaw at room temp or microwave briefly
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I skip the walnuts? Yes. They add texture and flavor but are optional.
How do I make them gluten-free? Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Texture may vary slightly but still delicious.
Can I use oil instead of butter? Butter provides more flavor and richness. Oil can be used but results will be slightly different.
How do I know when they’re done? Check the edges for firmness and look for slight moistness in the center. They’ll continue to set as they cool.
Can I double the recipe? Yes. Use two 9×13 pans or one larger sheet pan and adjust baking time as needed.
Flavor Variations
- Espresso Fudgy Brownies: Add 1 tablespoon instant espresso powder to enhance chocolate depth
- Raspberry Swirl: Swirl raspberry jam into the batter before baking
- Caramel Walnut Brownies: Drizzle caramel sauce on top and sprinkle extra walnuts
- Mint Chocolate: Stir in crushed peppermint candies or mint extract
- Orange Zest: Add zest of one orange for a citrusy lift
Serving Ideas
Fudgy brownies with walnuts can be served in many delicious ways:
- With a scoop of vanilla or coffee ice cream
- Drizzled with chocolate sauce or caramel
- Dusted with powdered sugar or cocoa
- Paired with fresh strawberries or raspberries
- As part of a dessert board with cookies and fruit
Making It Kid-Friendly
These brownies are already a kid favorite, but here are a few fun ideas:
- Skip the nuts or replace with chocolate chips
- Let kids help with stirring or cracking eggs
- Cut into fun shapes using cookie cutters
- Serve with milk or hot cocoa for an after-school treat
A Slice of Chocolate Comfort
At Best Bread Machine, we love recipes that combine ease with indulgence. Fudgy brownies with walnuts do exactly that. They’re rich, reliable, and ready to turn any day into something special. Whether you’re making them for guests or stashing a few for yourself, they bring comfort with every bite.
These brownies are a little celebration of tradition and flavor—no fuss, just joy.
Conclusion
Fudgy brownies with walnuts are more than just dessert—they’re a little luxury made from familiar ingredients. Easy to bake, delightful to eat, and endlessly customizable, this recipe belongs in every home baker’s collection. Whether you’re baking for your family, gifting to a friend, or treating yourself, these brownies offer warmth and satisfaction in every square.
Make a batch today and savor the rich, chewy magic that only a homemade brownie can bring.
