Popcorn Chocolate Brownies

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 250 grams (9 oz) 70% chocolate
  • 250 grams (9 oz) butter
  • 2 tablespoons cocoa powder (heaping)
  • 4 eggs
  • 250 grams (9 oz) sugar
  • 2 tablespoons flour (heaping)
  • Pinch of salt
  • 70 grams (2.5 oz) nuts

Equipment

  • Double Boiler

    A double boiler helps melt the chocolate and butter evenly without burning. If you don't have one, a heatproof bowl over a pot of simmering water works just as well. Be sure to stir constantly.

  • Electric Mixer

    An electric mixer will whip your eggs and sugar to a fluffy perfection. If you're using a hand mixer, it might require a little more elbow grease, but the results will be just as rewarding!

  • Sifter

    Sifting the flour and cocoa powder ensures there are no lumps, making your batter smooth and your pastries flawless.

  • Baking Pan

    Choose a baking pan that’s the right size for the amount of batter. A standard 9x13 inch pan works well. Make sure to grease it properly to prevent sticking.

Instructions

Step 1

Preparation

Melt the chocolate and butter in a double boiler, add a pinch of salt to the chocolate.
Beat the eggs with sugar until fluffy and white.

Step 2

Mixing

Sift flour and cocoa into the egg mixture.
Pour in the melted chocolate.
Add your favorite nuts.

Step 3

Baking

Pour the batter into a baking pan and bake for 27 minutes at 180°C (350°F).

Step 4

Serving

Cool for at least 15 minutes.
Serve with ice cream and popcorn.

Servings

Ready to enjoy these delightful pastries? Make your experience extra special with these serving suggestions:
  • With Ice Cream: Serve warm pastries with a scoop of your favorite ice cream. The combination of hot and cold is a taste sensation! 🍦
  • Popcorn Party: For a quirky twist, top your pastries with some caramel popcorn. The crunchiness of the popcorn complements the softness of the pastry, making each bite interesting. 🍿
  • Coffee Mate: Pair your pastries with a freshly brewed cup of coffee or hot cocoa. The bitterness of the coffee balances the sweetness of the pastry, creating a delightful harmony. ☕
  • Fruit Fusion: Garnish with fresh berries or a fruit compote to add a burst of freshness and color. The tartness of the berries adds a zesty contrast to the richness of the chocolate. 🍓
Be sure to share these moments with friends or family—it makes the experience even more memorable. Enjoy!

Variations

For those following a gluten-free or vegan diet, you can still indulge in these pastries with a few simple tweaks:
  • Gluten-Free: Substitute regular flour with a good-quality gluten-free flour blend. Ensure all other ingredients, like cocoa powder and nuts, are certified gluten-free. 🥄🌾
  • Vegan: Replace the butter with a vegan buttery spread, and use flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water per egg) in place of regular eggs. Opt for vegan chocolate and check your sugar to ensure it’s vegan. 🌱🍫
These variations ensure everyone can partake in the deliciousness without missing out on the flavor and fun!

Faq

  • Why is my chocolate mixture seizing up?

    Chocolate can seize if water or steam gets into it, or if it's heated too quickly. Make sure your equipment is completely dry and melt the chocolate slowly over lower heat for best results.

  • How do I ensure my pastries are baked through?

    A simple toothpick test works wonders. Insert a toothpick into the center of the pastry—if it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs, your pastries are ready!

  • Can I replace the nuts with something else?

    Absolutely! Feel free to swap out the nuts for dried fruits, chocolate chips, or even leave them out entirely if you prefer. Customize to your taste!

  • What's the best way to store these pastries?

    Store the pastries in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the fridge for up to a week. For longer storage, you can freeze them for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

  • Can I use a different type of chocolate?

    Yes, you can experiment with different types of chocolate. Dark chocolate, milk chocolate, or even white chocolate can be used to transform the flavor profile. Adjust the sugar quantity accordingly if you switch to a sweeter chocolate.

  • Is it necessary to sift the flour and cocoa powder?

    While it's not absolutely necessary, sifting helps remove lumps, ensuring a smoother and more consistent batter. It greatly enhances the texture of your final product.

Nutrition facts

Popcorn Chocolate Brownies
Recipe Yield:8 servings
Calories:Per serving
Calories (Min - Max):400 - 450
Total Fat:30g
Saturated Fat:18g
Protein:6g
Total Carbohydrate:40g
Total Sugars:30g