If you’ve ever wished for the perfect little chocolate treat that’s both delightfully fudgy and irresistibly chewy, you’re in for a real treat with this Chewy Brownie Bites from Scratch Recipe. These bite-sized brownies are a fantastic way to get all the rich, decadent flavor of classic brownies but in an adorable, snackable form. Every chewy bite bursts with deep chocolate goodness, complemented by a tiny hint of espresso powder that accentuates their intensity. Whether you’re sneaking them during your afternoon coffee break or impressing friends at a gathering, these brownie bites deliver pure joy with every morsel.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Simple ingredients are the heart of this Chewy Brownie Bites from Scratch Recipe, each playing a crucial role. From the buttery smoothness that gives richness to the cocoa powder’s robust chocolate flavor, every component balances texture, taste, and visual appeal perfectly.
- 142 grams unsalted butter: Provides a creamy base and rich flavor that makes these brownies decadent.
- 60 grams bittersweet chocolate, chopped: Adds intense chocolate depth and a velvety texture.
- 200 grams sugar: Sweetens the batter and helps create that chewy texture we love.
- 48 grams cocoa powder, sifted: Gives a concentrated chocolate punch and dark color.
- 2 large eggs (room temperature): Bind the ingredients while lightening the batter’s texture.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances overall flavor with a sweet, aromatic note.
- 60 grams all-purpose flour: Provides structure without making the bites cakey.
- 1/2 teaspoon instant espresso powder (optional): Brings out the chocolate’s richness and adds complexity.
- 1/4 teaspoon Kosher salt: Balances sweetness and intensifies flavors.
- Flaky salt (for serving, optional): Adds a delightful crunch and flavor contrast on top.
How to Make Chewy Brownie Bites from Scratch Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Equipment
First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C). Generously grease a mini muffin pan with baking spray to ensure these little beauties release easily after baking. This prep step is critical because it helps maintain the perfect chewy edges we’re aiming for without sticking.
Step 2: Melt Butter and Chocolate
In a large microwave-safe bowl, combine the unsalted butter and bittersweet chocolate. Melt them together by microwaving for 30-second intervals, stirring after each until smooth and warm. This creates the luscious molten base that will carry the flavors throughout the brownie bites.
Step 3: Blend in Sugar and Cocoa
While the butter-chocolate mixture is still warm, stir in the sugar using a hand mixer. Beat for 2-3 minutes until the sugar mostly dissolves, which helps achieve that chewy, almost glossy texture in the final brownies. Add sifted cocoa powder next and stir until your batter becomes silky smooth and inviting.
Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla
One at a time, add the eggs to your chocolate mixture, then pour in the vanilla extract. Turn your mixer on high and beat for 3-4 minutes. This step lightens the batter’s color and texture just enough, resulting in brownies that are dense but pleasantly tender inside.
Step 5: Fold in Dry Ingredients
Gently fold in the sifted flour, instant espresso powder if you’re using it, and Kosher salt until everything is fully combined. Be careful not to overmix here, as you want to keep the batter luscious and slightly thick to get those chewy brownie bites packed with flavor.
Step 6: Scoop and Bake
Using a #60 cookie scoop, or about a teaspoon, divide the batter evenly into the mini muffin cups, filling each about 3/4 full. Bake for 10-12 minutes. The brownies are done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with just a few moist crumbs clinging to it, ensuring your bites stay fudgy, not cakey.
Step 7: Cool and Release
Let the brownie bites cool completely in the pan, which takes about 15-30 minutes. This step helps them set and develop their chewy texture. Use a small butter knife to carefully free the brownies from the pan. For an extra touch, sprinkle flaky salt on top to enhance the chocolate’s depth and add a pleasant crunch.
How to Serve Chewy Brownie Bites from Scratch Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkling flaky salt over warm brownie bites is a game changer, balancing sweetness and bringing out chocolate’s complexity. You can also dust them lightly with powdered sugar or add a dollop of whipped cream for an elegant finish.
Side Dishes
Pair these chewy brownie bites with fresh berries or a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream to create a delightful dessert combo that feels indulgent but never over the top. A hot cup of coffee or milk complements the deep chocolate flavors perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
Try stacking brownie bites in mini dessert towers or arrange them on a platter interspersed with seasonal fruits and nuts for a spectacular party spread. Wrapping them individually in parchment paper makes a lovely homemade gift that everyone will adore.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to four days. This keeps the brownies moist and chewy without drying out. If you prefer them chilled, they’ll firm up nicely in the fridge for up to a week.
Freezing
These brownie bites freeze beautifully. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet until frozen, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag. They’ll keep for up to three months and thaw quickly at room temperature when you want a quick chocolate fix.
Reheating
To enjoy as if freshly baked, warm brownie bites in a microwave for about 10-15 seconds or pop them briefly into a preheated oven at 325°F (160°C) for five minutes. This brings back that warm, chewy magic we all crave.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of chocolate?
Absolutely! Bittersweet chocolate is ideal for deep, rich flavor, but semisweet or dark chocolate can work well too. Just be mindful of sugar levels and adjust the sugar in the recipe if needed.
What if I don’t have instant espresso powder?
The espresso powder is optional but highly recommended as it enhances the chocolate taste without adding coffee flavor. If you don’t have it, you can simply leave it out and your brownie bites will still be deliciously chocolatey.
Can I make these gluten-free?
Yes! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend. Make sure the blend contains xanthan gum for the best texture results.
How do I know when the brownie bites are done?
They’re perfect when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs but isn’t wet with raw batter. Overbaking will dry them out, so keep an eye on those last few minutes.
Can I double the recipe?
Definitely. Just double all ingredients and bake in batches or use multiple mini muffin pans. Baking time remains about the same, but keep watch since ovens can vary.
Final Thoughts
This Chewy Brownie Bites from Scratch Recipe has become one of my absolute favorites because it’s simple, fast, and undeniably delicious. The perfect balance of fudgy chewiness and rich chocolate flavor makes these tiny treats easy to love and share. So go ahead, give it a try — your kitchen will smell incredible, and your taste buds will thank you!
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Chewy Brownie Bites from Scratch Recipe
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 36 mini brownie bites
Description
These chewy brownie bites are rich, fudgy, and made from scratch using a simple combination of chocolate, butter, and cocoa powder. Perfectly portioned as mini muffins, they deliver intense chocolate flavor with a tender, chewy texture. Ideal for a bite-sized treat or party snack.
Ingredients
Chocolate Mixture
- 142 grams unsalted butter (10 tablespoons)
- 60 grams bittersweet chocolate, chopped (2 ounces)
Dry Ingredients
- 200 grams sugar (1 cup)
- 48 grams cocoa powder, sifted (1/2 cup)
- 60 grams all-purpose flour (1/2 cup)
- 1/2 teaspoon instant espresso powder (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon Kosher salt
Wet Ingredients
- 2 large eggs, room temperature
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Topping
- Flaky salt, for serving (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C) and generously grease the cups of a mini muffin pan with baking spray to ensure easy release of the brownie bites.
- Melt Butter and Chocolate: In a large microwave-safe bowl, combine the unsalted butter and chopped bittersweet chocolate. Microwave in 30-second bursts, stirring between each until the mixture is completely melted, smooth, and very warm.
- Add Sugar and Cocoa: While the mixture is still hot, add the sugar. Using a hand mixer, beat the sugar into the warm chocolate butter mixture for 2-3 minutes until mostly dissolved. Then stir in the sifted cocoa powder until the batter is smooth.
- Incorporate Eggs and Vanilla: Add eggs one at a time to the mixture, followed by the vanilla extract. Beat the mixture on high speed for 3-4 minutes or until the batter lightens in color and texture, indicating aeration.
- Fold in Dry Ingredients: Gently fold in the all-purpose flour, instant espresso powder (if using), and Kosher salt just until combined to avoid overmixing.
- Scoop and Bake: Using a #60 cookie scoop, evenly divide the batter into the prepared mini muffin cups, filling each about three-quarters full. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center reveals a few moist crumbs.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the brownie bites to cool completely in the pan for 15-30 minutes until fully set. Gently loosen them from the pan with a butter knife. Optionally sprinkle with flaky salt before serving to enhance the chocolate flavor.
Notes
- Room temperature eggs improve batter consistency and final texture.
- Instant espresso powder intensifies the chocolate flavor but can be omitted.
- Do not overbake; the brownie bites should be chewy with some moist crumbs on a toothpick.
- Flaky salt adds a delightful contrast to the sweet, rich chocolate.
- Use a small cookie scoop for uniform brownie bite sizes and even baking.
- Allow brownies to cool fully to set texture before removing from pan.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
