Cocoa powder is not only a staple in baking but also a healthier alternative to chocolate bars. It provides a deep chocolate flavor without the added sugars and fats found in chocolate. Plus, it’s often more affordable and easier to store. With just a few basic ingredients, you can whip up mouth-watering treats that your family and friends will love.

Brownies are perhaps the most beloved cocoa powder dessert. Here’s a simple recipe that yields rich, fudgy brownies using cocoa powder.

Ingredients

1/2 cup (115g) butter
1 cup (200g) sugar
1/3 cup (40g) cocoa powder
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 large eggs
1/2 cup (65g) all-purpose flour
1/4 teaspoon salt

Instructions

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (162°C). Grease an 8-inch square baking pan or line it with parchment paper.
Melt the Butter: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium-low heat. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
Mix Ingredients: Stir in the sugar, cocoa powder, vanilla extract, and salt until well combined. The mixture may appear gritty, but that’s okay.
Add Eggs: Beat in the eggs one at a time until the batter is smooth.
Incorporate Flour: Finally, fold in the flour until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread it evenly. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the edges look dry, but the center remains slightly underbaked for a fudgy texture.
Cool and Serve: Allow the brownies to cool completely before cutting them into squares.

For more variations, consider adding chocolate chips, nuts, or even dried fruits to the batter for added texture and flavor.

If you prefer a quicker method with fewer dishes to wash, try this one-bowl fudgy brownie recipe.

Ingredients

1/2 cup (115g) butter
1 cup (200g) sugar
1/3 cup (40g) cocoa powder
2 large eggs
1/2 cup (65g) all-purpose flour
1/4 teaspoon salt
Optional: 1/2 cup chocolate chips or nuts

Instructions

Melt Butter: In a large microwave-safe bowl, melt the butter.
Combine Ingredients: Add sugar and cocoa powder to the melted butter, stirring until smooth. Then, mix in the eggs one at a time. Finally, add flour and salt, mixing until just combined. If desired, fold in chocolate chips or nuts.
Bake: Pour the batter into a greased pan and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes.
Cool and Enjoy: Let cool before cutting into squares.

This recipe is perfect for those last-minute cravings or when you want to impress guests with minimal effort.

Don’t Overmix: Overmixing can lead to cakey brownies. Stir until just combined for that perfect fudgy texture.
Cool Before Cutting: Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan before slicing. This will help them set and make cutting easier.
Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to add spices like cinnamon or mix-ins like peanut butter chips, dried fruits, or marshmallows to customize your brownies.

Cocoa powder is a fantastic ingredient that can transform simple recipes into delightful treats. With these easy cocoa powder brownie recipes, you can enjoy rich, fudgy desserts with minimal effort. Whether you choose the classic or one-bowl method, you're sure to create a dessert that will impress everyone. So, grab your cocoa powder and get baking—deliciousness awaits!