When we talk about the best brownies, many people's thoughts naturally drift towards renowned confectioneries and bakeries, but sometimes the most delightful culinary secrets are hidden away in the less-obvious places. Today, I am thrilled to unveil the secret behind Palmer's Deli's irresistible brownies, a recipe that has tantalized taste buds for decades. Now, this recipe will be your secret too.
Ingredients
Here is what you'll need to create these delectable treats:
- 200g unsalted butter
- 200g dark chocolate (at least 70% cocoa)
- 4 large eggs
- 350g white sugar
- 1 tbsp vanilla extract
- 120g plain flour
- 30g cocoa powder
- 1 tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp salt
- 100g chocolate chips or walnuts (optional)
🔑 Note: Using high-quality chocolate is key for that rich, irresistible flavor.
Step-by-Step Preparation
Follow these steps to recreate Palmer's Deli famous brownies:
Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Line a 20cm x 20cm baking pan with parchment paper for easy removal.
Melt Butter and Chocolate
In a double boiler, gently melt the butter and dark chocolate together until smooth. Allow to cool slightly.
Mix Wet Ingredients
Beat the eggs, sugar, and vanilla extract together until light and fluffy. This can take about 5-7 minutes with an electric mixer.
Combine Wet and Dry
Pour the cooled chocolate mixture into the egg mixture, mixing until well combined. In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. Fold this into the wet mixture gently, being careful not to overmix. If using, fold in the chocolate chips or walnuts.
Bake the Brownies
Transfer the batter to the prepared baking pan, smoothing the top. Bake for 25-30 minutes. The brownies are done when the top has a glossy, set look but the middle still has a slight jiggle. Note, brownies will continue cooking for a short time after removal from the oven.
⚡️ Note: Avoid overbaking to keep brownies fudgy and chewy.
Cool and Cut
Allow the brownies to cool in the pan for at least 20 minutes before transferring to a cooling rack. Once completely cool, cut into squares. For best results, use a sharp, non-serrated knife warmed under hot water, cleaning the blade between cuts.
Serving Suggestions
These brownies are delightful as-is, but here are some ways to elevate them:
- Ice Cream - Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla or your favorite ice cream.
- Dusting - A light dusting of icing sugar for a touch of elegance.
- Ganache - Top with a glossy chocolate ganache for added decadence.
| Serving Option | Best Pairing |
|---|---|
| Vanilla Ice Cream | Coffee |
| Caramel Sauce | Whipped Cream |
| Fresh Berries | Iced Tea |
🎂 Note: Experiment with different combinations to find your perfect match!
Storing and Keeping
Brownies can be stored at room temperature in an airtight container for up to a week. They can also be frozen for up to 3 months, wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and foil. Defrost in the fridge overnight before serving.
In summary, Palmer’s Deli’s secret brownie recipe combines simplicity with the luxury of high-quality ingredients to produce an unforgettable treat. By following this guide, you too can create brownies that are rich, fudgy, and utterly delicious. Experiment with your own tweaks, like adding a swirl of peanut butter or a sprinkle of sea salt, to make this timeless recipe uniquely yours.
Can I substitute any ingredients?
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Yes, you can make some substitutions. For instance, if you’re looking for a dairy-free option, you can use dairy-free butter. Also, you can swap dark chocolate for high-quality milk chocolate, although the brownies will be less intense in flavor.
What if I don’t have a double boiler?
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If you don’t have a double boiler, you can melt the chocolate and butter in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat it in 20-second intervals, stirring in between until smooth.
How do I ensure my brownies don’t become cakey?
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The key is not to overbake and to use less flour than you might for cake. Also, ensuring you mix the batter just until combined without overmixing helps to keep the brownies fudgy.
Can I make these brownies gluten-free?
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Yes, replace the plain flour with a gluten-free baking blend. Make sure your baking powder and cocoa powder are also gluten-free.
How do I get that perfect, shiny top crust?
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To achieve that glossy top, ensure your brownies are not overbaked, use a higher proportion of sugar, and let them cool completely before cutting.
