Description
Sweet chocolate depths hide a whimsical carrot patch brownie landscape with chocolate crumble “soil” and adorable candy carrot decorations. Garden-inspired desserts deliver playful charm that delights guests with unexpected deliciousness you cannot resist.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, melted (226 grams)
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup all-purpose flour (125 grams)
- ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder (75 grams)
Sugars and Sweeteners:
- 1 cup granulated sugar (200 grams)
- ¾ cup brown sugar (150 grams)
- ½ cup chocolate chips (optional, for extra fudginess) (85 grams)
Flavor and Binding Ingredients:
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
Decoration Ingredients:
- 12 strawberries, washed and dried
- 1 ½ cups orange candy melts (or white chocolate + orange food coloring) (255 grams)
- ½ teaspoon vegetable oil (for smooth dipping)
- 10 Oreo cookies, crushed (for dirt)
- Green sprinkles or green frosting (optional, for carrot leaves)
Instructions
- Prepare the baking workspace by positioning the oven rack in the center and heating to 350F (175C). Coat a 9×13-inch pan with butter and line with parchment paper, ensuring complete coverage for easy removal.
- Create a smooth wet mixture by whisking melted butter with both granulated and brown sugars until fully integrated. Incorporate eggs and vanilla extract, blending until the mixture becomes uniform and slightly glossy.
- In a separate vessel, sift together flour, cocoa powder, salt, and baking powder, eliminating any potential lumps and ensuring even distribution of dry ingredients.
- Gently fold the dry ingredient mixture into the wet ingredients, using a silicone spatula to combine with minimal stirring. If desired, carefully incorporate chocolate chips throughout the batter, maintaining a light touch to preserve the brownie’s delicate texture.
- Transfer the batter into the prepared pan, using the spatula to spread evenly and create a smooth surface. Tap the pan gently on the counter to release any trapped air bubbles.
- Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, monitoring carefully. The brownies are perfectly done when a toothpick inserted near the center reveals a few moist crumbs, indicating a rich, fudgy consistency.
- Remove from the oven and allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan, which helps them set and develop a more intense flavor profile. Once cooled, lift out using the parchment paper and slice into desired portions.
Notes
- Butter Temperature Matters: Use slightly cooled melted butter to prevent scrambling the eggs and ensure a rich, smooth brownie texture.
- Chocolate Chip Flexibility: Opt for dark, milk, or white chocolate chips depending on personal preference or dietary needs; dairy-free alternatives work great.
- Moisture Control: Do not overmix the batter to keep brownies fudgy; stop mixing as soon as dry ingredients are incorporated to prevent tough, dense results.
- Gluten-Free Adaptation: Swap regular flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend to make these brownies suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Desserts, Snacks
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 12
- Calories: 154
- Sugar: 7 g
- Sodium: 55 mg
- Fat: 8 g
- Saturated Fat: 5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 20 g
- Fiber: 0.5 g
- Protein: 1 g
- Cholesterol: 23 mg