Can I use cacao powder instead of cocoa powder?

Yes, you can use cacao powder in brownies with cocoa powder only. Cacao is less processed and usually more bitter, so you might want to add a tiny bit more sugar or vanilla to balance the taste. It provides a very similar texture to natural cocoa powder.

Why are my brownies more like cake than fudge?

If your brownies with cocoa powder only turned out cakey, you might have used too much flour or too many eggs. It could also happen if you creamed the butter and sugar for too long, which incorporates too much air. Stick to melting the butter and stirring by hand for a denser result.

Do I need to add baking powder?

Most fudgy brownie recipes do not require baking powder. The eggs provide enough lift. Adding leavening agents like baking powder or baking soda will create a more cake-like structure. If you want a dense, chewy brownie, it is best to leave the leavening out entirely.

Can I make these gluten-free?

You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1-to-1 gluten-free flour blend. Since brownies with cocoa powder only do not rely heavily on gluten for their structure, they adapt very well to gluten-free alternatives. Just make sure your blend contains xanthan gum to help hold things together.

Perfect Brownies With Cocoa Powder Only: Fudgy & Simple

Ingredients

Scale

10 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
1 1/4 cups granulated sugar
3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
2 large eggs, cold
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat Oven – Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C) and grease an 8×8 inch square baking pan.
Step 2: Combine Base – In a medium heatproof bowl, combine the melted butter, sugar, cocoa powder, and salt.
Step 3: Stir Until Smooth – Stir the mixture with a wooden spoon until smooth and well combined.
Step 4: Add Vanilla – Add the vanilla extract and stir briefly.
Step 5: Add Eggs – Add the eggs one at a time, stirring vigorously after each addition until the batter looks shiny.
Step 6: Add Flour – Sift in the flour and stir until just combined.
Step 7: Beat Batter – Beat the batter for about 40 strokes with a spatula to develop the structure.
Step 8: Fold in Chocolate Chips – Fold in the chocolate chips if using.
Step 9: Fill Pan – Spread the batter evenly into the prepared baking pan.
Step 10: Bake – Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs attached.
Step 11: Cool – Cool completely in the pan before cutting into squares to ensure a fudgy set.

Notes

For the best results, do not overbake. The brownies will continue to set as they cool. Using high-quality Dutch-processed cocoa powder will yield a darker, richer flavor.

Author: Mike
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegetarian

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 brownie
Calories: 185
Sugar: 18 g
Sodium: 65 mg
Fat: 11 g
Saturated Fat: 7 g
Unsaturated Fat: 3 g
Trans Fat: 0.1 g
Carbohydrates: 24 g
Fiber: 1.5 g
Protein: 2.2 g
Cholesterol: 48 mg

Keywords: brownies, cocoa powder, fudgy brownies, chocolate dessert, easy baking