Brownies

After 2hrs of shovelling for the 3rd day in a row I felt I had earned a little something. It was getting late and I didn't feel like making anything complicated so fudgey brownies seemed the perfect solution. However those that know me know I don't typically go for simple or basic flavours. I like to step it up a notch! This is why I almost always salt my cookies and why I just had to add a little something to the brownies.

I started with Bon Appetit's classic cocoa brownie. It's perfect for when you need a quick chocolate fix. If you keep a moderately stocked pantry I can almost guarantee you already have everything you need. To take them up a notch just add in a bit of cayenne, chipotle chile and paprika. Or, if you're not into spicy, maybe a dash of powdered espresso. If those don't appeal just leave out the spices from the recipe below and you've got a batch of super fudgey brownies. Nothing wrong with that!

I'll be honest with you, I didn't measure out any of the spices I used, but it's a small pan of brownies so I didn't use a lot. A little shake or two of each (1/8 to 1/4 tsp probably).

Spicy Fudge Brownies (adapted from Bon Appetit)

1/2 C unsalted butter, melted
1 1/4 C granulated sugar
3/4 C unsweetened cocoa powder
1/2 tsp kosher salt
1/4 tsp cayenne powder
1/4 tsp chipotle chile powder
1/8 tsp smoked paprika
1 tsp vanilla
2 eggs
1/3 C all-purpose flour

Line an 8x8 baking dish with foil and coat with non-stick spray.

In a large bowl mix together the sugar, cocoa, salt, cayenne, chipotle chile, paprika, and salt. Mix in the melted butter. Add the eggs one at a time, thoroughly incorporate each one. Whisk in the vanilla. Gradually add the flour, be careful not to over mix.

Pour into prepared pan, smooth the top and bake at 325F for 25-30mins (until toothpick inserted into the middle comes out clean).

Place on wire rack and cool completely in the pan. Slice and enjoy!!