Hershey Brownie Recipe – Simple Easy Meals

When it comes to desserts, pairing is everything. For Hershey brownies, a few delightful options can take your experience to the next level. First, consider a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The cold creaminess contrasts beautifully with the warm, fudgy texture of the brownies. 

Alternatively, a drizzle of caramel sauce can add a rich, buttery flavor that elevates the chocolate. Finally, fresh berries—like raspberries or strawberries—offer a tartness that balances the sweetness fairly perfectly. Each of these pairings can transform a simple brownie into a show-stopping dessert.

What is a Hershey Brownie?

At its core, the Hershey brownie is a chocolate dessert made with Hershey’s cocoa powder or chocolate bars. Known for their rich flavor and chewy texture, these brownies are deeply satisfying. 

They are typically made with simple ingredients, making them easy to bake for any occasion. There’s no elaborate preparation here—just straightforward, delicious baking.

Why This Recipe Works?

You might wonder: what makes this recipe stand out? Here are four compelling reasons:

1. Simplicity of Ingredients

This recipe requires basic ingredients often found in your kitchen. All-purpose flour, eggs, and granulated sugar come together with Hershey’s cocoa for that rich chocolate flavor. You don’t need fancy ingredients. A trip to the store is a breeze!

2. Rich Chocolate Flavor

Hershey’s cocoa powder ensures a deep chocolate taste. The use of both cocoa powder and chocolate chunks creates layers of flavor, offering a satisfying experience for any chocolate lover. It’s a chocolate lover’s dream!

3. Texture That Hits the Sweet Spot

These brownies are perfectly chewy with a slightly crisp top. A combined baking time and the right oven temperature bake these to perfection. You’ll want seconds after the first bite!

4. Versatile Recipe

This recipe allows room for personalization. Want a bit of crunch? Toss in some nuts. Prefer a fudgier brownie? Adjust the baking time. The possibilities are endless. You can customize your treat based on what you enjoy!

Ingredients You’ll Need To Make This Dish

Here’s what you’ll need to bring these tasty brownies to life:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• ¾ cup HERSHEY’S Cocoa or HERSHEY’S SPECIAL DARK Cocoa powder
• ½ teaspoon baking powder
• ¼ teaspoon fine sea salt
• ½ teaspoon instant espresso powder
• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 cup unsalted butter or buttery spread
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 4 large eggs
• 2 teaspoons pure vanilla essence
• 1 cup toasted pecans or walnuts, chopped
• ¾ cup dark chocolate chunks or HERSHEY’S Milk Chocolate Chips (optional)

How To Make This Hershey Brownie?

Ready to dive into the baking process? Here’s how to do it step by step.

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by heating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures the brownies bake evenly and thoroughly from the moment you put them in.

Step 2: Prepare Your Baking Dish

Grease a 9×13 inch baking pan with some butter or non-stick spray. Line the bottom and sides with parchment paper for easier removal after baking.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, salt, espresso powder, and ground cinnamon. This helps to evenly distribute the ingredients.

Step 4: Melt the Butter

In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, remove it from heat and let it cool slightly. This creaminess is vital for the rich texture.

Step 5: Combine Wet Ingredients

Pour the melted butter into a mixing bowl. Add the sugar and mix until well-combined. Next, add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla.

Step 6: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture. Be cautious not to overmix; you want those brownies to stay tender.

Step 7: Add Extra Goodies

Fold in the nuts or chocolate chunks if using. This adds an exciting texture and flavor contrast.

Step 8: Pour into the Baking Pan

Spread the brownie batter evenly into the prepared baking dish. Smooth the top for a beautiful finish.

Step 9: Bake

Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes. You’ll know they are done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs but no wet batter.

Step 10: Cool and Slice

Once baked, remove the brownies and let them cool in the pan for a bit. After about 20 minutes, transfer them to a wire rack. Once fully cooled, slice into squares, and enjoy!

Tips & Tricks

Here are some helpful hints to ensure perfect brownies every time:

• Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on the time. Brownies can quickly shift from fudgy to dry.
• Room Temperature Ingredients: Use room temperature eggs for better mixing. They incorporate air more efficiently.
• Quality Cocoa is Key: Use HERSHEY’S cocoa for optimal flavor. The better the quality, the more this shines through.
• Experiment with Mix-ins: Feel free to add other goodies like marshmallows or different types of chocolate!
• Cool Completely Before Slicing: This helps the brownies maintain their shape when cut.

How Do You Store The Leftovers?

If you happen to have leftovers (but honestly, who are we kidding?), store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They can stay fresh for about 3 to 4 days. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing individual portions. Wrap each brownie in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll be good for up to three months!

What Sides Would Complement Hershey Brownies?

If you’re wondering what sides to serve alongside yours, here are three delicious suggestions:

1. Vanilla Ice Cream

Plain old vanilla ice cream is the classic pairing for brownies. Scoop some atop each serving for a warm-cold experience that’s simply divine.

2. Fresh Berries

Tart berries like raspberries or strawberries brighten up the deep chocolate flavor. Their acidity balances the sweetness.

3. Chocolate Sauce

For the ultimate chocolate experience, drizzle some warm chocolate sauce over the brownies. It’s a chocolate lover’s paradise!

What Alternatives Can You Use for the Ingredients If They Are Not Present in Your Kitchen?

Not stocked on everything? No worries. Here are some substitutions:

1. Coconut Oil for Butter

If you’re out of butter, melted coconut oil works beautifully as a substitute. It lends a light coconut flavor and keeps the brownies moist.

2. Applesauce for Sugar

For a healthier twist, unsweetened applesauce can replace some of the sugar. This method will reduce calories and add a slight apple flavor.

3. Gluten-Free Flour

If you need a gluten-free option, substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour. This will maintain texture and taste.

4. Aquafaba for Eggs

For vegan brownies, replace eggs with aquafaba (the liquid from canned chickpeas): 3 tablespoons of aquafaba equals one egg.

Conclusion

Baking a batch of Hershey brownies isn’t just about the delicious end result; it’s an experience! From the first stir to the aroma wafting through your kitchen, it’s all part of the journey. This recipe’s simplicity and depth of flavor guarantee satisfaction. 

With tips for storage, serving suggestions, or ingredient alternatives, you can truly make these brownies your own. So, roll those sleeves up, gather your ingredients, and let the chocolatey magic unfold. It’s time to indulge!

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