Are you craving a rich, fudgy, and utterly irresistible chocolate treat? Look no further than this delightful and simple Ghirardelli brownie recipe that uses two boxes of their famed brownie mix. Whether it's for a potluck, a birthday party, or just a cozy night in, these brownies will become your go-to dessert. They're perfect for those times when you want something homemade but don't have hours to spare in the kitchen. Let's dive into making these delectable treats!
Ingredients for Ghirardelli Brownies
Here’s what you’ll need:
- 2 boxes of Ghirardelli Triple Chocolate Brownie Mix
- 3⁄4 cup (175 ml) vegetable oil
- 1⁄3 cup (80 ml) water
- 2 large eggs
- Optional: Chocolate chips, nuts, or your favorite mix-ins
🌟 Note: If you’re adding mix-ins, add up to 1⁄2 cup to avoid overstuffing the batter.
Step-by-Step Guide to Baking
Preparation
- Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 325°F (165°C). This low temperature ensures that the brownies cook evenly and remain fudgy inside.
- Prepare the Baking Pan: Line a 9x13 inch (23x33 cm) baking pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it. This helps to lift the brownies out once they’re baked.
Making the Batter
- Mix the Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the Ghirardelli brownie mix, oil, water, and eggs. Use a wooden spoon or a mixer on low speed to blend until the batter is smooth.
- Add Mix-Ins (If Desired): If you’re adding nuts, chocolate chips, or anything else, fold them into the batter now.
Baking the Brownies
- Pour Batter: Pour the batter into the prepared pan, ensuring it’s evenly spread out.
- Place in Oven: Bake in the preheated oven for about 28-32 minutes. The brownies are done when the edges are set but the center still looks slightly undercooked. A toothpick inserted into the middle should come out with some moist crumbs.
- Cooling: Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. This can take at least an hour or two to ensure they’re cool to the touch.
Tips for Perfect Brownies
- Do not overmix; this can lead to tough brownies.
- Check Doneness: Always err on the side of underbaking. Brownies continue to cook from residual heat once out of the oven.
- Cooling Time: For the best texture, let the brownies cool completely before cutting. They become firmer and easier to slice.
⏰ Note: The cooling time is essential for the brownies to set properly, don’t rush this step!
Serving Suggestions
Here are a few ways to enjoy your freshly baked Ghirardelli brownies:
- As They Are: Simple, pure, and delicious. Dust with powdered sugar for an extra touch.
- With Ice Cream: Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful contrast.
- Brownie Sundae: Top with ice cream, chocolate sauce, whipped cream, and perhaps some crushed nuts.
These Ghirardelli brownies are not just any ordinary brownies; they're a testament to how easy it can be to make something so deliciously indulgent. With just two boxes of mix, you're on your way to creating a dessert that will be loved by everyone. The simplicity of the ingredients combined with the inherent richness of Ghirardelli's chocolate makes for a foolproof baking experience. So next time you're in the mood for something sweet, give this recipe a try. It’s guaranteed to satisfy your chocolate cravings with every fudgy bite.
Can I make these brownies gluten-free?
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Yes, Ghirardelli offers a gluten-free brownie mix that you can use in place of the regular mix. Just make sure to check the label for any cross-contamination warnings.
How long do these brownies last?
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Stored in an airtight container, these brownies can last up to 5 days at room temperature. For longer storage, consider refrigerating them or freezing for up to 3 months.
Can I use this recipe to make other flavors?
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Absolutely! If Ghirardelli offers different flavors of their brownie mix, like dark chocolate or salted caramel, you can follow the same instructions, adjusting bake times if necessary.
