Mary Berry Chocolate Chip Brownies Recipe [Tips & Tricks]

If you’re a fan of decadent, melt-in-your-mouth brownies with the perfect balance of chocolatey richness, then you absolutely have to try Mary Berry’s chocolate chip brownies recipe!

Known for her expertise in creating delicious, foolproof treats, Mary Berry delivers a brownie recipe that’s quick, easy, and simply irresistible. The combination of gooey chocolate chips and the soft, dense texture of these brownies will have your taste buds doing a happy dance. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just a cozy afternoon treat, this recipe guarantees a batch of brownies that will impress everyone who gets a bite!

Mary Berry Chocolate Chip Brownies Recipe

Ingredients Needed

Mary Berry’s Chocolate Chip Brownies are a delightful, indulgent treat that combines the richness of chocolate with the chewy, dense texture of a classic brownie. The ingredients used in this recipe are simple, but they come together to create an irresistible dessert. Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll need:

1. Butter – You’ll need 225g (about 8 oz) of unsalted butter. The butter should be melted to give the brownies their rich, fudgy texture. Melted butter also helps in making the batter smoother and more cohesive.

2. Dark Chocolate – 200g (7 oz) of dark chocolate is required for the brownie base. The dark chocolate gives these brownies a deep, luxurious flavor that complements the sweetness of the sugar and the milk chocolate chips.

3. Caster Sugar – 275g (10 oz) of caster sugar helps create the sweetness and glossy finish in the brownie batter. Caster sugar is preferred because of its finer texture, which dissolves quickly into the mixture.

4. Eggs – 4 large eggs are needed for binding the ingredients together, while also providing structure to the brownies. They contribute to the moistness and the delicate rise of the brownies as they bake.

5. Plain Flour – 125g (4.5 oz) of plain (all-purpose) flour is the main dry ingredient that gives structure to the brownies. It’s important not to overmix the flour, as it could result in dense, dry brownies.

6. Baking Powder – 1 tsp of baking powder is used to help the brownies rise slightly and give them a lighter texture.

7. Chocolate Chips – 200g (7 oz) of milk chocolate chips (or a mix of milk and dark chocolate chips, depending on your preference) will provide pockets of gooey, melty chocolate throughout the brownies. The chocolate chips add bursts of sweetness and texture that make every bite feel extra decadent.

8. Vanilla Extract – 1 tsp of vanilla extract is the final touch to enhance the overall flavor of the brownies, complementing the chocolate and adding a subtle, aromatic sweetness.

These ingredients are fairly straightforward but work together harmoniously to deliver brownies that are rich, chewy, and bursting with chocolatey goodness.

Equipment Needed

Making Mary Berry’s Chocolate Chip Brownies requires minimal yet essential kitchen tools. Here’s what you’ll need:

1. Baking Tin – A 23cm (9-inch) square baking tin is ideal for this recipe. It ensures that the brownies bake evenly and have the perfect thickness. If you don’t have a square tin, a rectangular one can also work, though the baking time may vary slightly.

2. Mixing Bowls – You’ll need at least two mixing bowls. One to combine your wet ingredients (butter, eggs, vanilla, melted chocolate) and another for the dry ingredients (flour, baking powder, sugar).

3. Whisk – A hand whisk or electric mixer is recommended for mixing the eggs and sugar together, helping to create a light, airy texture. You’ll also use it for folding the flour into the batter.

4. Spatula – A silicone spatula will be handy for folding in the flour and chocolate chips, ensuring all ingredients are evenly incorporated without deflating the mixture.

5. Saucepan – For melting the butter and dark chocolate, you’ll need a small to medium-sized saucepan. The low heat will allow these ingredients to melt slowly and combine into a smooth, glossy mixture.

6. Parchment Paper – Lining the baking tin with parchment paper ensures that the brownies don’t stick and are easy to lift out once baked. You can also use a baking spray as an alternative.

7. Cooling Rack – After the brownies are baked, transfer them to a cooling rack to prevent them from becoming soggy from steam that would otherwise collect if left in the tin.

How To Make Mary Berry’s Chocolate Chip Brownies

Making these chocolate chip brownies is a straightforward process that yields delicious results. Follow these simple steps to achieve the perfect batch:

1. Preheat the Oven – Start by preheating your oven to 180°C (160°C fan-assisted) or 350°F. Line your 23cm square baking tin with parchment paper.

2. Melt the Butter and Chocolate – In a saucepan, melt the butter and dark chocolate together over low heat, stirring constantly. Once fully melted and smooth, remove from heat and allow it to cool slightly.

3. Whisk the Eggs and Sugar – In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs and caster sugar together until pale and fluffy. This will take about 3-5 minutes with an electric whisk. The mixture should double in size and appear thick.

4. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients – Pour the melted chocolate and butter mixture into the egg and sugar mixture. Stir gently until well combined. Be careful not to deflate the mixture too much.

5. Sift in Dry Ingredients – In a separate bowl, sift the flour and baking powder together to ensure there are no lumps. Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, using a spatula to combine. Mix until just incorporated.

6. Add Chocolate Chips – Gently fold in the chocolate chips, distributing them evenly throughout the batter. This ensures pockets of gooey chocolate in every bite.

7. Bake – Pour the brownie batter into your prepared tin and spread it out evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes. You want the top to look set, but the center should still be a little soft. Test the brownies by inserting a toothpick – it should come out with a few moist crumbs attached, not wet batter.

8. Cool and Slice – Allow the brownies to cool in the tin for 10 minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack. Once fully cooled, slice into squares or rectangles. Enjoy the rich, gooey texture!

Expert Tips

To make sure your brownies turn out as perfectly as possible, here are a few expert tips:

1. Use Good Quality Chocolate – The flavor of your brownies largely depends on the quality of chocolate you use. Opt for a good dark chocolate with at least 70% cocoa for a rich, decadent flavor.

2. Don’t Overmix the Batter – When combining the wet and dry ingredients, mix gently. Overmixing can cause the brownies to become dense and tough instead of light and fudgy.

3. Watch the Baking Time – Brownies can go from perfectly baked to overcooked quite quickly, so start checking them at 25 minutes. If a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with moist crumbs, they’re done.

4. Let the Brownies Cool Completely – It’s tempting to dig in right away, but allowing your brownies to cool will help set the texture and make slicing easier.

5. Customize with Add-ins – You can get creative by adding nuts (like walnuts or pecans), dried fruits (such as cherries or raisins), or even a swirl of peanut butter or caramel to give your brownies a unique twist.

Mary Berry’s Chocolate Chip Brownies are the perfect balance of chewy, gooey, and fudgy, with pockets of melty chocolate that elevate each bite. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity – it uses basic ingredients and minimal equipment, but the results are nothing short of extraordinary.

With the right tips and techniques, you can create a batch of brownies that are sure to impress friends, family, or even yourself. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just satisfying a chocolate craving, these brownies will never disappoint. So, preheat your oven, gather your ingredients, and get ready to indulge in a tray of mouthwatering, homemade chocolate chip brownies!.

Easy Recipe Variations For Mary Berry’s Chocolate Chip Brownies

Mary Berry’s chocolate chip brownies are a classic, known for their rich flavor and perfect balance of fudginess and a slight crisp edge. But as much as we love the original recipe, there’s always room to experiment with different variations that can elevate the brownies or give them a unique twist. Here are some easy recipe variations you can try:

1. Nutty Chocolate Chip Brownies

If you’re a fan of adding texture and crunch, consider adding nuts to your brownies. Walnuts, pecans, or hazelnuts all complement chocolate beautifully.

Simply chop the nuts into small pieces and fold them into the batter along with the chocolate chips. If you’re using roasted nuts, be sure to reduce the baking time slightly to prevent them from overcooking. The addition of nuts brings a delightful contrast to the rich, soft texture of the brownie.

2. White Chocolate Chip Brownies

For those who enjoy the smooth, creamy taste of white chocolate, swapping out traditional dark chocolate chips for white chocolate chips can provide a different, lighter flavor profile. The sweetness of the white chocolate will contrast with the richness of the cocoa, creating a subtle but delicious variation. You can even combine both dark and white chocolate chips for a swirled effect.

3. Caramel Swirl Brownies

Caramel adds an irresistible richness to chocolate brownies. For a caramel swirl variation, melt caramel and fold it gently into the brownie batter before baking.

You can either drizzle caramel sauce over the top for a marbled effect or swirl it directly into the batter. As the brownies bake, the caramel becomes gooey and indulgent, giving the brownies an extra layer of sweetness and depth.

4. Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Brownies

For an added creamy and savory flavor, swirl in some peanut butter. This variation works wonderfully with Mary Berry’s recipe, especially if you love the pairing of chocolate and peanut butter.

Gently warm the peanut butter so that it becomes liquid, then drizzle it in and use a knife to swirl it through the brownie mix before baking. The combination of the rich chocolate and the nutty, salty peanut butter creates a perfect harmony of flavors.

5. Mint Chocolate Chip Brownies

To give your brownies a refreshing twist, add a hint of mint. You can either use mint-flavored chocolate chips or add a few drops of peppermint extract into the batter.

For an extra minty hit, top the brownies with mint chocolate chips or even a thin layer of mint frosting after baking. This combination gives your classic chocolate brownies a cool, refreshing zing that’s perfect for mint lovers.

6. Raspberry Chocolate Chip Brownies

If you want to add a fruity touch to your brownies, fresh raspberries are a fantastic addition. The tanginess of the raspberries balances the richness of the chocolate chips beautifully.

Gently fold the raspberries into the batter before baking, or add them as a topping just before the brownies are finished baking. The tartness of the raspberries provides a delightful contrast to the sweet, dense chocolate.

Best Practices To Store Leftovers

When you’ve baked a batch of Mary Berry’s chocolate chip brownies and have leftovers, it’s essential to store them properly to preserve their freshness and texture. Here are the best practices for storing brownies:

1. Cool Before Storing

First and foremost, allow your brownies to cool completely before storing them. This prevents condensation from forming inside the storage container, which could make the brownies soggy. If you’re in a hurry, let them cool at room temperature for at least 30 minutes before moving on to the next steps.

2. Use An Airtight Container

To keep your brownies fresh and moist, store them in an airtight container. A well-sealed container will prevent them from drying out and help retain their fudgy texture. Avoid stacking the brownies too high to prevent them from becoming squished; instead, layer them with parchment paper to keep each piece intact.

3. Refrigerating For Extended Freshness

If you plan on keeping your brownies for more than a few days, you can refrigerate them. Place the brownies in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to a week.

The cooler temperature helps maintain freshness and extends the shelf life, although refrigeration may slightly change the texture, making them a bit firmer. Allow them to come to room temperature before serving for the best taste.

4. Freezing Brownies For Long-Term Storage

To store brownies for a longer period, freezing is an excellent option. Cut the brownies into individual pieces, then wrap each one tightly in plastic wrap.

Place the wrapped brownies in a freezer-safe bag or container. They will stay fresh in the freezer for up to three months.

When you’re ready to enjoy, allow them to thaw at room temperature for a few hours. You can even reheat them in the microwave for a few seconds to get that just-baked feel.

5. Avoid Storing Brownies In Direct Sunlight Or Heat

Brownies should always be stored in a cool, dry place. Keeping them in a sunny spot or near a heat source can cause them to lose moisture, making them dry and crumbly. A cool pantry or kitchen cabinet is ideal.

What Goes Well With Chocolate Chip Brownies

While Mary Berry’s chocolate chip brownies are delicious on their own, pairing them with the right accompaniments can elevate the experience even further. Here are some ideas for what goes well with your chocolate chip brownies:

1. Ice Cream

One of the most popular pairings for brownies is ice cream. Vanilla, chocolate, or even more adventurous flavors like salted caramel or mint chocolate chip all make excellent complements to the fudgy richness of the brownies. The cold, creamy ice cream contrasts beautifully with the warm, dense brownies, making for a heavenly dessert combination.

2. Fresh Berries

For a lighter, more refreshing option, fresh berries are a fantastic choice. Raspberries, strawberries, or blackberries add a bright burst of flavor that cuts through the sweetness of the brownies.

You can serve them alongside or even add them directly to the brownies themselves for a fruity twist. The acidity in the berries provides a great balance to the richness of the chocolate.

3. Whipped Cream

A dollop of freshly whipped cream can take brownies to the next level. The airy, slightly sweetened cream provides a perfect contrast to the dense, chocolatey texture of the brownies. You can also add a dash of vanilla or cinnamon to the whipped cream for extra flavor.

4. Coffee Or Espresso

For an adult twist, serve your brownies with a cup of coffee or espresso. The bitterness of the coffee perfectly balances out the sweetness of the brownies, and the flavors complement each other wonderfully. Whether you prefer a latte, cappuccino, or a straight-up black coffee, this pairing is perfect for those who enjoy rich, deep flavors.

5. Caramel Sauce

If you want an extra indulgent treat, drizzle warm caramel sauce over your brownies before serving. The sweetness of the caramel enhances the chocolate, while its smooth texture creates a luxurious mouthfeel. You can even top with a sprinkle of sea salt to balance out the sweetness for a salted caramel brownie experience.

Conclusion

Mary Berry’s chocolate chip brownies are already a delightful treat, but with a little creativity, you can easily customize them to suit your preferences. Whether you add nuts, caramel, or mint, the possibilities for variation are endless.

Proper storage ensures that your brownies stay fresh and fudgy for days, and when paired with a scoop of ice cream, a handful of berries, or a rich cup of coffee, these brownies become even more irresistible. Whether you’re preparing them for a special occasion or a cozy treat at home, these brownies are sure to please everyone with their decadent chocolatey goodness.

FAQs

What Are The Key Ingredients For Mary Berry’s Chocolate Chip Brownies?

The key ingredients for Mary Berry’s chocolate chip brownies include butter, dark chocolate, sugar, eggs, flour, baking powder, and chocolate chips. These ingredients come together to create a rich, fudgy, and chocolatey treat.

Can I Use Milk Chocolate Chips Instead Of Dark Chocolate Chips In Mary Berry’s Brownie Recipe?

Yes, you can use milk chocolate chips instead of dark chocolate chips in Mary Berry’s recipe, but keep in mind that the brownies may be sweeter with milk chocolate, as it has a higher sugar content.

How Long Do Mary Berry’s Chocolate Chip Brownies Take To Bake?

Mary Berry’s chocolate chip brownies typically bake for 20 to 25 minutes in a preheated oven at 180°C (160°C for fan ovens) or 350°F. The exact time can vary depending on your oven and the size of your baking tin.

What Type Of Chocolate Should I Use For Mary Berry’s Chocolate Chip Brownies?

Mary Berry recommends using good quality dark chocolate for her brownies. A 70% cocoa solid dark chocolate will give the brownies a rich, intense flavor, but you can use a less intense dark chocolate if you prefer a milder taste.

Can I Make Mary Berry’s Chocolate Chip Brownies Without Eggs?

While eggs are a key ingredient in Mary Berry’s chocolate chip brownies for texture and structure, you can try replacing them with egg substitutes like flaxseed or chia eggs if you’re vegan or allergic to eggs. The texture may change slightly, but it should still yield a delicious result.

Should I Use Self-raising Flour Or Plain Flour For Mary Berry’s Chocolate Chip Brownies?

Mary Berry’s recipe calls for plain flour, and the rise of the brownies comes from the addition of baking powder. Using self-raising flour might result in a fluffier texture, which isn’t typical for brownies.

How Can I Make Mary Berry’s Chocolate Chip Brownies More Indulgent?

To make Mary Berry’s chocolate chip brownies even more indulgent, you can add a swirl of caramel or peanut butter, sprinkle some sea salt on top before baking, or even fold in additional chocolate chunks for an extra chocolaty bite.

Can I Store Mary Berry’s Chocolate Chip Brownies For Later?

Yes, you can store Mary Berry’s chocolate chip brownies in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days at room temperature. For longer storage, you can freeze them for up to 3 months. Just make sure they are wrapped well to prevent freezer burn.

How Can I Tell When Mary Berry’s Chocolate Chip Brownies Are Done Baking?

Mary Berry’s chocolate chip brownies are done when the edges are set, and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. If the toothpick comes out wet with batter, the brownies need a little more time.

Can I Use Margarine Instead Of Butter In Mary Berry’s Chocolate Chip Brownies?

While you can substitute margarine for butter in Mary Berry’s chocolate chip brownies, the texture and flavor may differ slightly. Butter adds a richer, creamier flavor, so margarine might result in a slightly less indulgent taste.