Gooey brownies with a shortbread crust are a delicious dessert that combines two classic treats: the rich, chocolaty indulgence of brownies and the buttery, crumbly goodness of shortbread. This dessert is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a family gathering, a potluck, or just a treat to satisfy your sweet tooth. The combination of textures and flavors makes these brownies a hit with both kids and adults.
Ingredients
To make these delightful gooey brownies with a shortbread crust, you will need the following ingredients:
Shortbread Crust
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Brownie Layer
- 1 cup unsalted butter
- 1 1/4 cups granulated sugar
- 3/4 cup brown sugar, packed
- 4 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 8 ounces bittersweet chocolate, chopped
Optional Ganache Topping
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 8 ounces bittersweet chocolate, chopped
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Shortbread Crust
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
- Make the Shortbread Dough: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Gradually add the flour and salt, mixing until the dough comes together.
- Form the Crust: Press the dough evenly into the prepared baking pan to form a smooth, even layer. Use your fingers or the back of a spoon to ensure the dough is evenly distributed.
- Bake the Crust: Bake the crust in the preheated oven for 15-18 minutes, or until it is lightly golden. Remove from the oven and set aside to cool slightly.
Step 2: Make the Brownie Layer
- Melt the Butter and Chocolate: In a medium saucepan over low heat, melt the butter and chopped bittersweet chocolate, stirring frequently until smooth. Remove from heat and allow to cool slightly.
- Mix the Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract until well combined.
- Combine Chocolate and Wet Mixture: Gradually whisk the melted chocolate mixture into the sugar and egg mixture, stirring until fully incorporated.
- Add the Dry Ingredients: Sift the flour, cocoa powder, salt, and baking powder together, then gradually fold into the chocolate mixture until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
- Pour Over Shortbread Crust: Spread the brownie batter evenly over the pre-baked shortbread crust, smoothing the top with a spatula.
- Bake the Brownies: Return the pan to the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. Do not overbake; the brownies should remain gooey.
Step 3: Prepare the Ganache Topping (Optional)
- Heat the Cream: In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream over medium heat until it begins to simmer. Do not let it boil.
- Melt the Chocolate: Remove the cream from the heat and pour it over the chopped bittersweet chocolate in a heatproof bowl. Let it sit for 2-3 minutes to melt the chocolate.
- Stir Until Smooth: Stir the chocolate and cream together until the mixture is smooth and glossy.
- Pour Over Brownies: Pour the ganache over the cooled brownies, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Allow the ganache to set before slicing and serving.
Tips and Variations
- Caramel Swirl: For a caramel twist, drizzle caramel sauce over the brownie batter before baking and swirl it with a knife for a marbled effect.
- Nuts and Toppings: Add a crunchy element by folding chopped nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, into the brownie batter.
- Sea Salt Finish: Sprinkle a pinch of sea salt over the ganache for a sophisticated touch that enhances the chocolate flavor.
- Alternative Sweeteners: Substitute coconut sugar or maple syrup for a different flavor profile in the brownie layer.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free flour blend to make this recipe gluten-free. Be sure to adjust the baking time as needed.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 450
- Total Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 17g
- Cholesterol: 110mg
- Sodium: 140mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 50g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 32g
- Protein: 5g
Gooey brownies with a shortbread crust are a decadent dessert that will impress any crowd. The combination of a buttery, crumbly shortbread base and a rich, chocolaty brownie layer makes for an irresistible treat. Whether you’re making these for a special occasion or just as a sweet indulgence, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. Try it out and let us know how it turned out by leaving a comment below. Share your creation on social media and tag us to show off your delicious dessert.