Delving into the often overlooked part of films - the credits - we uncover not just the names behind the scenes, but also some delightful culinary secrets. While many directors and chefs keep their recipes closely guarded, let's explore five brownies recipes that have, in one way or another, made their appearance in movie credits.
1. The Classic Cocoa Brownies
Imagine sitting down with a batch of Matilda’s Chocolate Fudge Brownies. It’s said that these brownies, inspired by the world-famous chocolatier featured in the movie “Chocolat,” are a testament to the comfort and indulgence provided by chocolate. Here’s how to make them:
- 1 cup unsalted butter
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup cocoa powder
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
Preparation:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Melt the butter in a large saucepan over low heat. Once melted, remove from heat.
- Stir in sugar and vanilla extract until well mixed.
- Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition.
- Sift together cocoa powder, flour, and salt; fold these dry ingredients into the butter mixture until just combined.
- Spread the batter into a greased 9x13-inch baking pan.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out with a few moist crumbs.
- Cool completely in the pan before cutting.
🍫 Note: These brownies are rich in cocoa, so be sure to use high-quality cocoa powder for the best flavor.
2. Key Lime Brownies from “Chef”
The movie “Chef” isn’t just about the passion of cooking; it subtly showcases the creativity of culinary art. Here’s a unique spin on brownies, featuring the tangy Key Lime:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup key lime juice
- 1 tbsp key lime zest
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 tsp baking soda
- Pinch of salt
- 1/2 cup white chocolate chips
Preparation:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a bowl, combine butter and sugar until smooth.
- Add eggs, one at a time, beating well. Stir in key lime juice and zest.
- In another bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt.
- Fold dry ingredients into the wet mixture. Stir in white chocolate chips.
- Pour batter into a greased 8-inch square pan.
- Bake for 22-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
🍈 Note: If you can't find key limes, regular limes will work too, but try to use fresh juice for the best taste.
3. Swanky Red Velvet Brownies
A delightful twist from the movie “The Internship,” where Vince Vaughn and Owen Wilson’s characters share a moment over these delectable brownies:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup cocoa powder
- 2 oz red food coloring
- 2 tsp white vinegar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/4 tsp salt
Preparation:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, mix melted butter, sugar, cocoa, red food coloring, and vinegar.
- Whisk in eggs and vanilla extract.
- Combine flour, baking soda, and salt; fold into the wet ingredients.
- Spread into a greased 9x13-inch pan.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges pull away from the sides.
4. Salted Caramel Swirl Brownies
From the much-loved “Big Night,” these brownies encapsulate the essence of the film’s dessert scene. Here’s how to replicate them:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup cocoa powder
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup salted caramel sauce (for swirling)
Preparation:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Combine butter and sugar, then add eggs and vanilla.
- Mix in cocoa, flour, and salt until just combined.
- Pour batter into a greased 9x13-inch pan.
- Drop spoonfuls of caramel over the batter; swirl with a knife for a marbled effect.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
🍬 Note: Adjust the amount of caramel to your taste, and make sure it's at room temperature for easier swirling.
5. Pumpkin Spice Brownies
Featuring the comforting flavors of fall, these “Autumn in New York” inspired brownies are a treat:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup canned pumpkin puree
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup cocoa powder
- 1 tbsp pumpkin pie spice
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/4 tsp salt
Preparation:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Mix melted butter, sugar, eggs, pumpkin puree, and vanilla extract.
- In another bowl, combine flour, cocoa, pumpkin pie spice, baking powder, and salt.
- Combine wet and dry ingredients gently.
- Pour batter into a greased 9x13-inch pan.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the center is set.
In weaving through these hidden gems of movie credits, we’ve discovered not just the magic of cinema but the joy of baking and sharing unique treats. From the classic to the quirky, these recipes embody the diversity and creativity of both the film and culinary worlds.
How can I keep my brownies from becoming too dry?
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Monitor your baking time closely and use a toothpick to test doneness. Remember, brownies will continue cooking a bit after being taken out of the oven.
What is the best way to cut brownies cleanly?
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Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan, then refrigerate for at least an hour. Use a sharp, non-serrated knife wiped clean between cuts to achieve neat slices.
Can I substitute cocoa powder with melted chocolate in these recipes?
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Yes, but keep in mind that cocoa powder provides more chocolate flavor. Replace 3 tablespoons of cocoa powder with 1 ounce of unsweetened chocolate, melting it first.
