Craving the rich, fudgy goodness of Ghirardelli brownies but can’t make it to the store? I’ve got you covered! This copycat recipe captures all the decadent flavors and melt-in-your-mouth texture that make Ghirardelli brownies a favorite treat.
Ingredients
To craft these decadent Ghirardelli-inspired brownies, gather the ingredients listed below. Each one is essential for achieving that perfect, fudgy texture and rich chocolate flavor.
Brownie Ingredients
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, melted
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 cup packed brown sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 1/2 cups Ghirardelli semi-sweet chocolate chips
Optional Add-Ins
- 1 cup chopped walnuts or pecans
- 1/2 cup chocolate chunks
- 1 teaspoon espresso powder for a deeper chocolate flavor
Equipment
To craft these mouthwatering Ghirardelli-style brownies, make sure you have the following tools on hand:
- 9×13-inch baking pan
Provides ample space for your batter to spread evenly, ensuring perfectly thick and fudgy brownies.
- Medium saucepan
Ideal for melting butter and chocolate together, creating a smooth and rich base for your batter.
- Heatproof spatula
Essential for stirring the melted ingredients without scratching your cookware, ensuring a well-incorporated mixture.
- Mixing bowls
Use separate bowls for combining dry ingredients and mixing wet ingredients, promoting easy and efficient preparation.
- Whisk
Helps blend ingredients thoroughly, achieving a uniform batter without lumps.
- Measuring cups and spoons
Accurate measurements are crucial for balancing flavors and textures, ensuring your brownies turn out just right.
- Oven
A reliable oven maintains consistent heat, allowing your brownies to bake evenly and develop that signature fudgy texture.
- Cooling rack
Allows your brownies to cool evenly, making them easier to cut into neat squares without sticking.
- Parchment paper
Lines your baking pan to prevent sticking and simplifies cleanup, making the baking process smoother.
Having these tools ready will make the brownie-making process seamless and enjoyable, helping you achieve delicious results every time.
Directions
Follow these easy steps to create your own decadent Ghirardelli-inspired brownies at home. Each stage is crafted to ensure a rich, fudgy texture and intense chocolate flavor.
Prep
- Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it reaches the perfect temperature for baking.
- Prepare Pan: Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, allowing some overhang for easy removal.
- Measure Ingredients: Gather and measure all ingredients accurately. Ensure chocolate chips are at room temperature for smoother melting.
Mixing
- Melt Butter and Chocolate: In a medium saucepan, melt 1 cup (226g) unsalted butter and 12 ounces (340g) Ghirardelli semi-sweet chocolate chips over low heat. Stir constantly with a heatproof spatula until smooth.
- Combine Sugars and Eggs: Remove the saucepan from heat. Stir in 1 1/2 cups (300g) granulated sugar and 1 cup (220g) brown sugar until well combined. Add 4 large eggs, one at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition.
- Add Vanilla: Stir in 2 teaspoons vanilla extract, enhancing the chocolate’s depth.
- Incorporate Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together 1 1/2 cups (190g) all-purpose flour, 1/2 cup (50g) unsweetened cocoa powder, 1 teaspoon salt, and 1 teaspoon baking powder.
- Combine Mixtures: Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture using a spatula until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
- Optional Add-Ins: If desired, fold in 1 cup chopped walnuts or pecans, 1/2 cup chocolate chunks, or 1 teaspoon espresso powder to enhance the flavor profile.
Baking
- Pour Batter: Transfer the brownie batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly with the spatula.
- Bake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out with a few moist crumbs.
- Monitor Texture: Ensure the edges are set while the center remains fudgy for that signature Ghirardelli texture.
Cooling
- Initial Cool: Remove the pan from the oven and allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan on a cooling rack. This typically takes about 1-2 hours.
- Chill for Best Texture: For optimal firmness, refrigerate the brownies for an additional hour.
- Remove from Pan: Use the parchment paper overhang to lift the brownies from the pan. Transfer to a cutting board.
Serving
- Cut into Squares: Slice the cooled brownies into even squares using a sharp knife. For clean cuts, wipe the knife between each slice.
- Optional Toppings: Serve as is or top with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, a drizzle of chocolate ganache, or a sprinkle of powdered sugar.
- Enjoy: Indulge in the rich, fudgy goodness of your homemade Ghirardelli-style brownies with family and friends.
Make-Ahead Instructions
Preparing these Ghirardelli Brownies ahead of time can save you time and reduce stress, especially when planning for gatherings or busy weeks. Here’s how I like to make these delicious treats in advance:
Preparing the Batter Ahead
- Mix the Batter: Follow the recipe steps to combine all wet and dry ingredients until smooth.
- Store the Batter: Transfer the batter into an airtight container or cover the mixing bowl tightly with plastic wrap.
- Refrigerate: Place the container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. This allows the flavors to meld and can enhance the chocolate richness.
Baking in Advance
- Bake Early: You can bake the brownies up to two days before serving.
- Cooling: Allow the brownies to cool completely on a cooling rack.
- Storage: Once cooled, lift the brownies using the parchment paper. Cut them into squares and store in an airtight container at room temperature.
- Freezing Option: For longer storage, place the cut brownies in a freezer-safe bag or container. Freeze for up to three months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Quick Assembly on the Day
- Preheat the Oven: If you prepared the batter in advance, take it out of the refrigerator about 30 minutes before baking to reach room temperature.
- Prepare the Pan: Line your 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper as usual.
- Bake as Directed: Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake according to the recipe instructions.
Serving Suggestions
To make serving easier, especially for events:
- Portion Control: Pre-cut the brownies into squares before storing.
- Display: Arrange the brownie squares on a serving platter and cover with plastic wrap until ready to serve.
- Enhancements: Serve with vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of chocolate ganache, adding a fresh touch to your make-ahead brownies.
By following these make-ahead tips, you can enjoy the rich, fudgy goodness of homemade Ghirardelli-style brownies with minimal effort when it’s time to indulge.
Conclusion
Making these brownies has become one of my favorite ways to treat myself and friends. There’s something special about biting into a homemade treat that matches the store-bought kind. The rich chocolate flavor and perfect texture always impress everyone who tries them. I love how customizable the recipe is too—you can add your favorite nuts or extra chocolate for that personal touch. Whether it’s a cozy night in or a gathering with loved ones, these brownies never fail to bring smiles. I hope you enjoy baking and savoring them as much as I do. Happy baking!
