14 Brownie Recipes From Scratch That Taste Better Than Any Box Mix

14 Brownie Recipes From Scratch That Taste Better Than Any Box Mix – because nothing beats the rich, homemade goodness of real brownies. Forget the artificial flavors and preservatives – these from-scratch recipes deliver deep chocolate flavor with that perfect balance of fudgy centers and crackly tops. Whether you crave classic chocolate indulgence, crave something nutty, or want to try exciting flavor twists, these brownies will ruin you for anything from a box forever.

Each recipe has been carefully tested to ensure foolproof results, with clear instructions for achieving your ideal texture – whether you prefer cakey, chewy, or ultra-fudgy. We’ve included pro tips for that shiny, paper-thin crust every baker dreams of, along with creative mix-ins and toppings to take your brownies to the next level. From one-bowl wonders to showstopping layered creations, these are the brownies that will make you a baking legend among friends and family.

Walnut Brownies with Sea Salt

Delicious walnut brownies drizzled with chocolate and sprinkled with sea salt.

These walnut brownies are a delightful treat that combines rich chocolate flavor with the satisfying crunch of walnuts. Topped with a sprinkle of sea salt, each bite becomes a wonderful balance of sweet and savory. Making these brownies from scratch is surprisingly easy, making them perfect for any occasion or simply to satisfy your chocolate cravings.

The walnuts add a nutty depth, while the sea salt enhances the chocolatey goodness. Whether you’re sharing them with friends or keeping them all to yourself, these brownies are sure to impress!

Raspberry Cheesecake Brownies

Raspberry cheesecake brownies are a delightful blend of rich chocolate and tangy raspberry flavors. These treats combine a fudgy brownie base with a creamy cheesecake layer, swirled with raspberry puree for a burst of fruity goodness. The contrast of textures and flavors makes each bite a delicious experience.

Not only do they taste amazing, but they are also surprisingly easy to make. With just a few simple steps, you’ll have a batch of these mouthwatering brownies ready to impress your friends and family.

Ingredients

1/2 cup unsalted butter
1 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1/4 teaspoon salt
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1/4 cup powdered sugar
1/2 cup raspberry puree (fresh or frozen raspberries blended)
Extra raspberries for garnish

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×9-inch baking pan.
In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Remove from heat and stir in granulated sugar, eggs, and vanilla until well combined.
Mix in cocoa powder, flour, and salt until just blended. Pour half of the brownie batter into the prepared pan.
In a separate bowl, beat the cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth. Stir in the raspberry puree, reserving a bit for swirls.
Spread the cream cheese mixture over the brownie batter. Dollop the remaining brownie batter on top and swirl with a knife. Top with additional raspberry puree if desired.
Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out mostly clean. Allow to cool before slicing into squares.

Chocolate Mint Brownies

Chocolate mint brownies are a delightful treat that blends rich chocolate flavor with a refreshing hint of mint. These brownies are not just easy to make; they offer a perfect balance of fudgy texture and cool mint essence, making them an irresistible dessert for any occasion.

With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up a batch in no time. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or just craving something sweet, these brownies will surely impress!

Ingredients

1 cup unsalted butter
2 cups granulated sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon peppermint extract
4 large eggs
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking pan.
In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Remove from heat and mix in the sugar, vanilla extract, and peppermint extract.
Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, salt, and baking powder.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture until just combined. Stir in the chocolate chips.
Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.
Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.
Allow the brownies to cool in the pan before cutting into squares.

S’mores Brownies

S’mores brownies bring together the rich, fudgy goodness of brownies with the classic flavors of s’mores. They are a delightful treat that combines chocolate, graham crackers, and toasted marshmallows for a sweet, nostalgic flavor.

This recipe is simple to make and perfect for any chocolate lover. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or just wanting a sweet snack at home, these brownies are sure to impress your friends and family.

Ingredients

1 cup unsalted butter
2 cups granulated sugar
4 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 cup cocoa powder
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup mini marshmallows
1 cup chocolate chips
1 cup graham cracker crumbs
1/2 cup chocolate sauce (for drizzling)

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking pan.
In a large saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Once melted, remove from heat and stir in the sugar, eggs, and vanilla until well combined.
Mix in the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
Fold in the chocolate chips and graham cracker crumbs, then pour the batter into the prepared baking pan.
Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out with a few moist crumbs.
Remove from the oven and immediately sprinkle the mini marshmallows on top. Return to the oven for another 5 minutes until the marshmallows are puffed and slightly golden.
Allow the brownies to cool, then drizzle with chocolate sauce before cutting into squares. Enjoy your delicious s’mores brownies!

Coconut Macaroon Brownies

If you’re looking for a delightful twist on traditional brownies, these Coconut Macaroon Brownies are a must-try! Combining rich, fudgy chocolate with the chewy texture and sweet flavor of coconut macaroons, they make for an irresistible treat. The combination of chocolate and coconut creates a mouthwatering dessert that is sure to satisfy any sweet tooth.

Not only do these brownies taste amazing, but they are also easy to whip up. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a dessert that impresses friends and family. Whether served at a gathering or enjoyed as a late-night snack, these brownies will quickly become a favorite!

Ingredients

1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup butter, melted
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 cup sweetened shredded coconut
1/2 cup chocolate chips (optional)

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease an 8×8-inch baking pan.
In a large bowl, mix melted butter and sugar until well combined. Stir in the eggs and vanilla extract, mixing until smooth.
Add cocoa powder, flour, and salt to the mixture, stirring until just combined. Fold in shredded coconut and chocolate chips if using.
Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread evenly. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out mostly clean.
Allow to cool before cutting into squares. Enjoy your Coconut Macaroon Brownies!

Classic Fudgy Brownies

Classic fudgy brownies are the epitome of chocolatey goodness. They offer a rich, dense texture that melts in your mouth, making them a favorite for chocolate lovers everywhere. Plus, they’re simple to whip up, requiring just a handful of ingredients you probably already have in your pantry.

These brownies are not only easy to bake, but they also deliver that perfect balance of chewy and gooey. Once you taste them, you’ll understand why homemade brownies are always better than any box mix. They’re perfect for sharing, or just enjoying by yourself with a glass of milk!

Ingredients

1/2 cup unsalted butter
1 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 cup chocolate chips (optional)

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease an 8×8 inch baking dish.
In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Once melted, remove from heat and stir in the sugar, eggs, and vanilla until well blended.
Add cocoa powder, flour, salt, and baking powder to the mixture. Stir until just combined, being careful not to overmix. If desired, fold in chocolate chips for extra richness.
Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly.
Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. Let them cool before cutting into squares.

Peanut Butter Swirl Brownies

Peanut Butter Swirl Brownies are a delightful treat that combines the rich, fudgy goodness of classic brownies with the creamy, nutty flavor of peanut butter. The swirls create an eye-catching design and enhance the overall taste, making each bite a perfect balance of chocolate and peanut butter. Simple to make, these brownies are perfect for both novice bakers and seasoned pros alike.

With a few straightforward ingredients and minimal prep time, you’ll have a batch of these delicious brownies ready to share—or enjoy all by yourself. They pair wonderfully with a cold glass of milk, making them a go-to dessert for any occasion!

Ingredients

1/2 cup unsalted butter
1 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
1/4 cup chocolate chips (optional)

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease an 8×8-inch baking pan.
In a saucepan over low heat, melt the butter. Once melted, remove it from heat and stir in the sugar, eggs, and vanilla until well combined.
Add the cocoa powder, flour, salt, and baking powder, mixing until just combined. If using, fold in the chocolate chips.
Pour the brownie batter into the prepared pan, smoothing it into an even layer.
In a small bowl, gently warm the peanut butter so it’s easier to swirl. Drop spoonfuls of peanut butter over the brownie batter and use a knife or toothpick to create a swirl effect.
Bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.
Allow the brownies to cool before cutting into squares and serving. Enjoy!

Espresso Infused Brownies

Espresso infused brownies bring a delightful twist to the classic treat. The rich chocolate flavor is perfectly complemented by a hint of coffee, creating a mouthwatering experience that coffee lovers will adore. These brownies are simple to make, requiring just a few ingredients, and they come together in no time, making them great for a quick dessert or an afternoon snack.

Each bite delivers a fudgy texture with a deep chocolate taste, enhanced by the espresso kick. Topped with chocolate chips for added indulgence, these brownies are sure to impress friends and family. Whether enjoyed with a cup of coffee or as a standalone dessert, they’ll become a favorite in your recipe collection.

Ingredients

1/2 cup unsalted butter
1 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon baking powder
2 tablespoons espresso powder
1/2 cup chocolate chips

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×9 inch baking pan.
In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Remove from heat and stir in sugar, eggs, and vanilla until well combined.
Add cocoa powder, flour, salt, baking powder, and espresso powder to the mixture. Stir until just combined.
Fold in the chocolate chips and pour the batter into the prepared baking pan.
Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Allow to cool before cutting into squares and serving.

Red Velvet Brownies

Red velvet brownies bring a fun twist to the classic chocolate treat. With their rich, velvety texture and a hint of cocoa, they’re both fudgy and soft, making every bite a delight. Topped with cream cheese frosting, they strike the perfect balance between sweet and tangy, making them an irresistible dessert.

This recipe is simple to follow, perfect for both novice and experienced bakers. Whether you’re whipping them up for a special occasion or just because, these brownies are sure to impress!

Ingredients

1 cup unsalted butter
2 cups granulated sugar
4 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon red food coloring
1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
1 cup powdered sugar

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking pan.
In a large bowl, melt the butter and mix in the sugar until combined. Add the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla.
In another bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this mixture to the wet ingredients until just combined.
Stir in the red food coloring until you achieve a vibrant red color.
Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
While the brownies are baking, prepare the cream cheese frosting by beating together the cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth.
Once the brownies are cool, spread the frosting evenly over the top and cut into squares to serve.

Caramel Stuffed Brownies

Caramel stuffed brownies are a delightful treat that takes the classic brownie to a whole new level. Imagine biting into a rich, fudgy brownie only to discover a gooey layer of caramel hidden within. These brownies offer a perfect balance of chocolate and sweetness, making each bite incredibly satisfying. Plus, they’re surprisingly simple to make, even for those new to baking!

The process involves preparing a basic brownie batter, pouring half into a baking dish, adding a layer of caramel, and then topping it with the remaining brownie mix. Bake until set, and you’ll have a batch of brownies that not only look impressive but taste heavenly.

Ingredients

1/2 cup unsalted butter
1 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon baking powder
1 cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×9-inch baking pan.
In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Remove from heat and stir in the sugar, eggs, and vanilla until well combined.
In another bowl, mix together the flour, cocoa powder, salt, and baking powder. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined.
Pour half of the brownie batter into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly. Drizzle the caramel sauce over the brownie layer, then top with the remaining brownie batter.
Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. Let cool before slicing and serving.

Nutella Brownies

Nutella brownies are a delightful twist on the classic treat, combining rich chocolate flavor with the creamy, nutty goodness of Nutella. These brownies are incredibly easy to make, requiring just a few simple ingredients, and they come together in no time. With a fudgy texture and a hint of hazelnut sweetness, they’re sure to be a hit with anyone who takes a bite!

Perfect for parties or a cozy night in, these brownies are not just tasty but also fun to make. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, this recipe is straightforward and forgiving. Get ready to impress your friends and family with these irresistible Nutella brownies!

Ingredients

1 cup Nutella
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
2 large eggs
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease an 8-inch square baking pan.
In a mixing bowl, combine Nutella, eggs, and sugar until smooth.
Add flour, salt, baking powder, and vanilla extract. Mix until just combined.
Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread it evenly.
Bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.
Let cool before slicing into squares. Enjoy your delicious Nutella brownies!

Gluten-Free Brownies

These gluten-free brownies are a delightful treat that everyone can enjoy, whether or not they follow a gluten-free diet. They’re rich, fudgy, and packed with chocolate flavor, making them a perfect dessert for any occasion. The best part? They’re simple to whip up, so you can satisfy your sweet tooth in no time!

Using almond flour instead of regular flour gives these brownies a unique texture and a nutty flavor that pairs beautifully with the chocolate. Topped with chocolate chips, they’re not only tasty but also visually appealing. Get ready to enjoy a brownie that feels indulgent without the gluten!

Ingredients

1 cup almond flour
1/2 cup cocoa powder
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/4 cup brown sugar
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce
1/4 cup melted coconut oil
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 cup chocolate chips

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease an 8×8-inch baking pan.
In a large bowl, mix together the almond flour, cocoa powder, granulated sugar, brown sugar, baking powder, and salt.
Add the applesauce, melted coconut oil, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Stir until well combined.
Fold in the chocolate chips, reserving a few for topping if desired.
Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and smooth the top. Sprinkle any reserved chocolate chips on top.
Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out mostly clean.
Let the brownies cool in the pan before slicing them into squares. Enjoy!

Zucchini Brownies

Zucchini brownies are a delightful twist on the classic treat, combining the rich, fudgy texture of brownies with the health benefits of zucchini. The result is a moist and chocolatey dessert that’s not overly sweet, making it perfect for a guilt-free indulgence. Plus, they are incredibly easy to make!

These brownies are a fantastic way to sneak some veggies into your diet without anyone being the wiser. They’re great for satisfying your sweet tooth while still keeping things light. Enjoy them on their own or topped with a scoop of ice cream for an extra treat!

Ingredients

1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
1/2 cup vegetable oil
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup grated zucchini (about 1 medium zucchini)
1/2 cup chocolate chips (optional)

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8×8 inch baking dish or line with parchment paper.
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
In another bowl, mix the granulated sugar, brown sugar, oil, eggs, and vanilla until well combined. Stir in the grated zucchini.
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until just combined. If using, fold in the chocolate chips.
Spread the batter evenly in the prepared baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Let cool before cutting into squares and enjoy!

Spicy Chipotle Brownies

Spicy Chipotle Brownies are the perfect blend of rich chocolate goodness and a kick of heat. These brownies deliver a unique flavor experience that tantalizes the taste buds, making them a fun twist on a classic dessert. The warmth from the chipotle pepper adds a surprising depth that complements the chocolate beautifully.

This recipe is straightforward and doesn’t require any fancy techniques or ingredients, making it ideal for both novice bakers and seasoned pros. You’ll enjoy the satisfaction of whipping up a batch of these spicy treats in no time!

Ingredients

1 cup unsalted butter
2 cups granulated sugar
4 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1-2 teaspoons ground chipotle pepper (adjust to taste)
1 cup chocolate chips (optional)

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Remove from heat and stir in the sugar until well combined.
Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, salt, and chipotle pepper. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
If using, fold in the chocolate chips for extra richness.
Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and smooth the top. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.
Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan before slicing into squares and serving. Enjoy your spicy treat!

Final Thoughts

Homemade brownies are one of life’s simplest yet most satisfying pleasures – when done right. These 14 recipes prove that with quality chocolate, proper technique, and a little love, you can create treats that surpass anything store-bought. Remember: the best brownies start with good ingredients and attention to detail (don’t overbake them!). Whether you stick with timeless classics or experiment with bold new flavors, each batch is an opportunity to create something truly special. So preheat that oven and get ready to experience brownie perfection – your future self (and everyone you share them with) will thank you.