Chili Chocolate Brownies with Sea Salt
Highlighted under: Dreamy Dessert Lab
Indulge in the rich and spicy flavor of these Chili Chocolate Brownies with Sea Salt. The perfect balance of sweetness and heat makes them a unique treat for any occasion.
Chocolate and spice come together in these decadent brownies, creating a delightful experience with every bite. The addition of sea salt enhances the chocolate flavor while the chili adds a surprising kick.
Why You'll Love These Brownies
- A unique twist with a hint of heat
- Rich chocolate flavor paired with sea salt
- Perfect for chocolate lovers seeking a spicy kick
A Flavorful Adventure
Chili Chocolate Brownies offer an intriguing fusion of flavors that tantalize the taste buds. The combination of rich chocolate and subtle heat creates a unique dessert experience that is both comforting and exciting. Each bite delivers a velvety texture that melts in your mouth, followed by a gentle warmth from the chili powder, making it a delightful surprise for chocolate enthusiasts.
This dessert is perfect for those who appreciate bold flavors. The addition of chili powder not only enhances the chocolate but also adds depth to the overall flavor profile. It's a great way to elevate your typical brownie recipe and turn a classic treat into something extraordinary, perfect for impressing guests at gatherings or indulging in a sweet escape at home.
Perfect Pairings
These brownies are delicious on their own, but they can also be paired with various accompaniments to enhance the experience. Consider serving them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, which provides a creamy contrast to the spicy kick. The cold ice cream will balance the heat, making each bite even more enjoyable.
For a more adventurous pairing, try drizzling the brownies with a bit of caramel sauce or a sprinkle of crushed nuts. The added textures and flavors will elevate your dessert, making it a standout option for any occasion. Whether it’s a family gathering or a cozy night in, these brownies are sure to be a hit.
Storage and Serving Tips
To keep your Chili Chocolate Brownies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing individual squares. Wrap each brownie tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. They can be enjoyed straight from the freezer or thawed at room temperature for a few hours.
When serving, consider warming the brownies slightly in the microwave for a few seconds. This will bring out the chocolate's richness and make them even more decadent. Just be sure to monitor the time closely to avoid overheating. Enjoy your brownies fresh, warm, and topped with a sprinkle of sea salt for that perfect finishing touch.
Ingredients
For the Brownies
- 1 cup unsalted butter
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- Sea salt for topping
Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature for the best results.
Instructions
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.
Melt the Butter
In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Remove from heat and stir in the sugar, eggs, and vanilla.
Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, chili powder, and salt.
Mix and Bake
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture until well combined. Stir in the chocolate chips. Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and sprinkle sea salt on top. Bake for 25 minutes.
Cool and Serve
Let the brownies cool in the pan before slicing into squares. Enjoy!
These brownies are even better the next day, once the flavors have had time to meld.
The Magic of Sea Salt
The addition of sea salt to these brownies is not just for decoration; it plays a crucial role in enhancing the overall flavor. Salt naturally amplifies sweetness, making the chocolate taste even more intense. The crunchy texture of the sea salt contrasts beautifully with the fudgy brownie, creating a multi-layered mouthfeel that is simply irresistible.
When baking, be sure to sprinkle the sea salt generously on top before placing the brownies in the oven. This way, it will melt slightly during baking, infusing each bite with a burst of flavor. For an extra touch, you can also experiment with flavored sea salts, like smoked or garlic, to add a different dimension to this classic dessert.
Customization Ideas
One of the best aspects of baking is the ability to customize recipes to suit your tastes. For these Chili Chocolate Brownies, consider adding additional mix-ins such as chopped nuts, dried fruit, or even a swirl of peanut butter for a rich contrast. These additions can provide a delightful crunch or chewiness that enhances the overall experience.
If you prefer a milder brownie, you can reduce the amount of chili powder or omit it entirely. Alternatively, for those who love heat, feel free to amp up the chili powder or even add a dash of cayenne pepper for an extra kick. This recipe is versatile and allows for personal creativity, ensuring that everyone can enjoy a brownie that suits their palate.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use dark chocolate instead of semi-sweet?
Yes, dark chocolate can enhance the richness of the brownies.
→ How should I store the brownies?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days.
→ Can I freeze these brownies?
Absolutely! Wrap them tightly and freeze for up to 3 months.
→ What can I use instead of eggs?
You can substitute eggs with flaxseed meal or applesauce for a vegan option.
Chili Chocolate Brownies with Sea Salt
Indulge in the rich and spicy flavor of these Chili Chocolate Brownies with Sea Salt. The perfect balance of sweetness and heat makes them a unique treat for any occasion.
Created by: Emma
Recipe Type: Dreamy Dessert Lab
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 12 brownies
What You'll Need
For the Brownies
- 1 cup unsalted butter
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- Sea salt for topping
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.
In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Remove from heat and stir in the sugar, eggs, and vanilla.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, chili powder, and salt.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture until well combined. Stir in the chocolate chips. Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and sprinkle sea salt on top. Bake for 25 minutes.
Let the brownies cool in the pan before slicing into squares. Enjoy!
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 380 kcal
- Total Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Cholesterol: 195mg
- Sodium: 85mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 32g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 24g
- Protein: 6g