Brace yourself for the ultimate homemade brownie mix recipe. This recipe is perfect for those who crave the rich, chocolatey goodness of homemade brownies but don't always have the time to make them from scratch. A homemade brownie mix, conveniently prepared in advance, will save you time and effort without compromising on taste.
The ingredient list for this recipe is fairly straightforward, and you should be able to find everything at your local supermarket. The only ingredient that might not be a common pantry staple is vegetable shortening. Vegetable shortening is a type of fat used for baking and frying, and it's what gives these brownies their rich, fudgy texture. If you can't find it at your local supermarket, you can easily substitute it with butter.
Ingredients for Homemade Brownie Mix Recipe
All purpose flour: This is the base of the brownie mix and gives the brownies their structure.
Baking powder: This helps the brownies to rise slightly, giving them a light, cake-like texture.
Salt: Salt enhances the flavors of the other ingredients.
Sugar: This adds sweetness to the brownies.
Unsweetened cocoa powder: This gives the brownies their rich, chocolatey flavor.
Vegetable shortening: This provides the fat needed for a fudgy, moist brownie.
Eggs: Eggs add richness and help bind the other ingredients together.
Vanilla: Vanilla enhances the flavors of the other ingredients.
Butter: This adds richness and flavor to the brownies.
Nuts: These add a nice crunch and additional flavor to the brownies.
One reader, Dell Redden says:
This homemade brownie mix recipe is a game-changer! The brownies turned out rich, fudgy, and absolutely delicious. The mix was easy to prepare and the end result was a hit with my family. I love having this mix on hand for a quick and indulgent treat. Highly recommend!
Techniques Required for Making Brownie Mix
How to make brownie mix: Combine flour, baking powder, salt, cocoa powder, and sugar, then cut in the shortening until evenly distributed.
How to bake brownies: Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F, combine brownie mix with eggs, vanilla, butter, and nuts, pour into a lined pan, and bake for 28 to 30 minutes until set.
How To Make Homemade Brownie Mix
Skip the store bought boxes and whip up your own brownie mix at home! Use this delicious mix anytime you’re craving those chocolatey bars.
Serves:
Ingredients
For Brownie Mix:
- 6cupsall purpose flour
- 4tspbaking powder
- 2tspsalt
- 8cupssugar
- 1cupunsweetened cocoa powder
- 2cupsvegetable shortening
To Bake Brownies:
- 2eggs
- 1tspvanilla
- 3tspbutter,melted
- ½cupnuts,or chocolate chips, optional
Instructions
Brownie Mix:
-
In a large bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, salt and cocoa powder. Stir in the sugar.
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Add the shortening, then cut it into the mix with a pastry cutter until evenly distributed.
Bake Brownies:
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Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.
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Combine 2½ cups of brownie mix with the eggs, vanilla, butter, and nuts. Stir until smooth.
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Pour into an 8 x 8-inch pan lined with parchment.
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Bake for 28 to 30 minutes or just until set. Cool completely.
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Frost as desired, then cut into squares.
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Serve, and enjoy!
Recipe Notes
Store your brownie mix sealed in a cool dry place for up to 3 months.
Nutrition
- Calories: 2232.59kcal
- Fat: 80.66g
- Saturated Fat: 20.87g
- Trans Fat: 9.08g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 33.51g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 21.35g
- Carbohydrates: 374.13g
- Fiber: 9.71g
- Sugar: 266.86g
- Protein: 19.52g
- Cholesterol: 58.40mg
- Sodium: 1050.17mg
- Calcium: 283.42mg
- Potassium: 447.38mg
- Iron: 8.99mg
- Vitamin A: 39.22µg
- Vitamin C: 0.05mg
Helpful Technique for Preparing Homemade Brownie Mix
When making your brownie mix, ensure that the vegetable shortening is properly cut into the dry ingredients. This step is crucial to achieving a smooth, well-integrated mix. You can use a pastry cutter or two knives in a criss-cross motion. The goal is to have the shortening distributed evenly throughout the mix, resembling coarse crumbs. This will ensure that your brownies have a consistent texture and flavor.
Time-Saving Tips for Preparing Homemade Brownie Mix
Prepare the ingredients: Gather and measure all your ingredients before you start. This will help you work more efficiently and prevent any last-minute trips to the store.
Use a food processor: Use a food processor to quickly mix the dry ingredients for the brownie mix. It will save you time and ensure even distribution of the ingredients.
Organize your workspace: Keep your kitchen organized and clean as you work. This will help you move smoothly through the recipe without any unnecessary delays.
Pre-cut nuts: If you know you'll be using nuts in your brownies, consider pre-cutting them in advance to save time during the mixing process.
Preheat the oven: Remember to preheat your oven before you start preparing the brownie mix. This way, it will be ready to go when your batter is prepared.
Invest in quality tools: Quality mixing bowls, measuring cups, and utensils can make the cooking process more efficient and enjoyable.
Follow the recipe: While it may seem obvious, following the recipe accurately can save time by preventing mistakes that require starting over.
Clean as you go: Wash and put away utensils and bowls as you finish using them. This will help keep your workspace clear and make the cleanup process easier.
Substitute Ingredients For Homemade Brownie Mix Recipe
all purpose flour - Substitute with whole wheat flour: Whole wheat flour can add a nuttier flavor and a denser texture to the brownies, as well as providing additional fiber and nutrients.
baking powder - Substitute with baking soda: Baking soda can be used as a substitute for baking powder, but it requires an acidic ingredient such as buttermilk or yogurt to activate it.
sugar - Substitute with coconut sugar: Coconut sugar can be used as a natural sweetener alternative, providing a slightly caramel-like flavor and lower glycemic index compared to regular sugar.
unsweetened cocoa powder - Substitute with dark chocolate: Dark chocolate can be melted and used as a substitute for cocoa powder, adding a rich and intense chocolate flavor to the brownies.
vegetable shortening - Substitute with butter: Butter can be used as a substitute for vegetable shortening, providing a rich and creamy flavor to the brownies.
eggs - Substitute with applesauce: Applesauce can be used as a substitute for eggs to add moisture and binding properties to the brownies, especially for those looking for an egg-free option.
butter - Substitute with coconut oil: Coconut oil can be used as a substitute for butter, providing a slightly tropical flavor and a healthier fat alternative.
nuts - Substitute with dried fruits: Dried fruits such as raisins, cranberries, or chopped dried apricots can be used as a substitute for nuts to add a sweet and chewy texture to the brownies.
Presentation Ideas for Homemade Brownie Mix
Elevate the plating: When presenting the brownies, ensure that the plating is elegant and refined. Use a minimalist approach, focusing on clean lines and precise placement of the brownie squares.
Garnish with finesse: Add a touch of sophistication to the presentation by garnishing the brownies with a sprinkle of powdered sugar. This will create a visually appealing contrast against the rich, dark brownie surface.
Incorporate a sauce swirl: Create an artistic flair by drizzling a delicate chocolate or caramel sauce in a decorative swirl on the plate before placing the brownie square. This adds a touch of finesse and elevates the overall presentation.
Utilize edible flowers: Introduce a pop of color and elegance by delicately placing edible flowers, such as pansies or violets, alongside the brownie squares. This unexpected element will captivate the eyes and add a touch of sophistication to the dish.
Emphasize precision: Pay attention to the precision of each element on the plate. Ensure that the brownie squares are cut perfectly and aligned with precision, showcasing your attention to detail and culinary expertise.
Incorporate a dusting of cocoa: Before serving, lightly dust the plate with cocoa powder using a fine mesh sieve. This subtle addition will add a touch of sophistication and tie the presentation together with a hint of decadence.
Use high-quality serving ware: Select elegant and high-quality serving ware to complement the brownie presentation. Opt for minimalist, modern plates or platters that allow the brownies to take center stage while exuding an air of sophistication.
Essential Tools for Making Brownie Mix at Home
Food processor: A food processor is a versatile kitchen tool that can be used for mixing, blending, and chopping ingredients. It's great for making pastry dough, grinding nuts, and pureeing fruits and vegetables.
Mixing bowl: A mixing bowl is essential for combining ingredients and mixing batters. It comes in various sizes and materials, such as stainless steel, glass, or ceramic, and is a staple in any kitchen.
Baking pan: A baking pan is used to bake brownies, cakes, and other baked goods. It comes in different shapes and sizes, and can be made of metal, glass, or silicone.
Parchment paper: Parchment paper is used to line baking pans to prevent sticking and make for easy cleanup. It's also handy for rolling out dough and can be used to create a non-stick surface for various cooking tasks.
Pastry cutter: A pastry cutter is a hand-held tool with curved blades used to cut fat into flour when making pastry dough or crumb toppings. It helps create a crumbly texture and distribute the fat evenly.
Spatula: A spatula is used for scraping, spreading, and smoothing batters in the baking process. It's also handy for flipping and serving brownies and other baked treats.
Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurement is crucial in baking, and measuring cups and spoons are essential for precisely measuring dry and liquid ingredients.
Oven: An oven is used for baking the brownies to perfection. It provides the necessary heat for the brownie batter to rise and set, resulting in a delicious finished product.
Cooling rack: A cooling rack is used to cool baked goods such as brownies, allowing air to circulate around the pan and preventing the bottom from becoming soggy.
Storing and Freezing Homemade Brownie Mix
- To store the brownie mix, transfer it to an airtight container or resealable plastic bag. Make sure to press out any excess air before sealing to maintain freshness.
- Label the container or bag with the date and contents for easy identification.
- Store the brownie mix in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat sources. A pantry or cupboard is ideal.
- When stored properly, the brownie mix will keep well for up to 6 months at room temperature.
- For longer storage, you can freeze the brownie mix. Place the mix in a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag, removing as much air as possible before sealing.
- Label the container or bag with the date and contents, then place it in the freezer.
- Frozen brownie mix will maintain its quality for up to 12 months.
- To use the frozen mix, remove it from the freezer and let it thaw at room temperature for a few hours before proceeding with the recipe.
- If the mix has clumped together after freezing, sift it through a sieve or whisk it to break up any lumps before using.
How To Reheat Leftover Brownies
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover brownie on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Heat in the oven for about 5-10 minutes, or until warmed through. This method will help restore the crispy edges and gooey center of your brownie.
If you prefer a softer, more moist brownie, wrap the leftover piece in aluminum foil before placing it in the oven. This will help prevent the edges from drying out while reheating. Heat for about 10-15 minutes at 350°F (175°C).
For a quick and easy method, place the brownie on a microwave-safe plate and heat it in the microwave for 15-30 seconds, depending on the size of the piece and the power of your microwave. Be careful not to overheat, as this can cause the brownie to become rubbery.
If you have a toaster oven, you can use it to reheat your brownie. Place the brownie on a small baking tray or toaster oven-safe plate and heat at 350°F (175°C) for 3-5 minutes, or until warmed to your liking.
For a unique twist, try crumbling the leftover brownie into a bowl and serving it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The contrast of the warm, gooey brownie and the cool, creamy ice cream is sure to delight your taste buds.
Interesting Fact About Homemade Brownie Mix
Brownies are believed to have been created in the United States at the beginning of the 20th century. The first-known recipe for brownies was published in the 1897 Sears, Roebuck Catalogue, and it called for a combination of chocolate, sugar, butter, and flour. The brownie mix recipe allows for easy and convenient preparation of delicious brownies at home, providing a quick and tasty treat for any occasion.
Is Making Brownie Mix at Home Cost-Effective?
The cost-effectiveness of this homemade brownie mix recipe is quite high, as the ingredients are commonly found in most households. The versatility of the mix allows for multiple batches, making it a budget-friendly option. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $10, resulting in a high rating of 9 for cost-effectiveness.
Is This Brownie Mix Recipe Healthy or Unhealthy?
This homemade brownie mix recipe is quite unhealthy due to several factors:
- The recipe contains a high amount of sugar (8 cups), which can contribute to obesity, diabetes, and other health issues when consumed in excess.
- The use of all-purpose flour lacks the nutritional benefits of whole grain flours, which provide more fiber, vitamins, and minerals.
- Vegetable shortening is high in saturated and trans fats, which can increase the risk of heart disease and other health problems.
- The recipe lacks any healthy ingredients like fruits, vegetables, or whole grains that could provide additional nutrients.
To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:
- Reduce the amount of sugar by half and replace it with natural sweeteners like honey, maple syrup, or dates.
- Substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour or almond flour to increase the fiber and nutrient content.
- Replace the vegetable shortening with healthier alternatives like coconut oil, avocado, or Greek yogurt.
- Add in some healthy ingredients like shredded zucchini, carrots, or beetroot to boost the nutritional value and moisture content of the brownies.
- Experiment with using dark chocolate (70% or higher) instead of unsweetened cocoa powder, as it contains more antioxidants and less sugar.
- Reduce the portion size of the brownies and pair them with fresh fruits or a glass of low-fat milk to create a more balanced treat.
Editor's Opinion on This Brownie Mix Recipe
This homemade brownie mix recipe offers a classic and versatile base for creating delicious brownies. The use of high-quality ingredients and the option to customize the mix with different add-ins make it a great choice for home bakers. However, the large quantity of ingredients may be overwhelming for some, and the use of vegetable shortening may not align with certain dietary preferences. Overall, with some adjustments and personalization, this recipe has the potential to yield delectable homemade brownies.
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Why trust this Homemade Brownie Mix Recipe:
This homemade brownie mix recipe is a tried and tested favorite among our community of bakers. The cocoa powder and sugar are of the highest quality, ensuring a rich and decadent flavor. The use of vegetable shortening creates a perfect texture, and the addition of nuts provides a delightful crunch. Our users have raved about the simplicity and deliciousness of this recipe, making it a go-to for any occasion. Trust in the collective experience and expertise of our community, and indulge in these irresistible homemade brownies.
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