Ingredients:

  • 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter
  • 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/3 cup (40g) unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1/2 cup (65g) all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 cup (90g) chocolate chips (optional)
  • 1/2 cup (70g) chopped nuts (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Melt the butter in a medium saucepan over low heat.
  3. Combine sugar and melted butter in a bowl. Whisk until smooth.
  4. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in vanilla.
  5. Sift cocoa powder into the mixture. Blend to incorporate.
  6. Fold in flour, salt, and baking powder until just combined.
  7. Stir in optional chocolate chips and nuts, if using.
  8. Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading evenly.
  9. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-30 minutes, until a toothpick inserted comes out with a few moist crumbs.
  10. Cool in the pan before slicing into squares.