Gooey Brownies With Shortbread Crust Recipe and Tips

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Gooey Brownies With Shortbread Crust RecipeGooey 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

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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

  1. 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.
  2. Mix the Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract until well combined.
  3. Combine Chocolate and Wet Mixture: Gradually whisk the melted chocolate mixture into the sugar and egg mixture, stirring until fully incorporated.
  4. 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.
  5. Pour Over Shortbread Crust: Spread the brownie batter evenly over the pre-baked shortbread crust, smoothing the top with a spatula.
  6. 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)

  1. Heat the Cream: In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream over medium heat until it begins to simmer. Do not let it boil.
  2. 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.
  3. Stir Until Smooth: Stir the chocolate and cream together until the mixture is smooth and glossy.
  4. 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.

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