Deliciously Decadent Nut Brownies

Name: Deliciously Decadent Nut Brownies
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 16 brownies
Ingredients: 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 2 cups granulated sugar; 1 cup unsalted butter, melted; 4 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1 cup mixed nuts (walnuts and pecans), chopped

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I can confidently say these Deliciously Decadent Nut Brownies are a true delight! Every time I make them, the rich chocolate aroma fills my kitchen, creating an irresistible invitation for everyone around. The combination of crunchy nuts and fudgy chocolate makes every bite an indulgent experience. Plus, they’re surprisingly easy to whip up, needing just a handful of pantry staples. Whether it's for a sweet treat at home or a dessert for gatherings, these brownies never fail to impress.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-18T13:06:29.751Z

Every time I turn on the oven for these brownies, I remember the first batch I made for a family gathering. I doubled the nuts because I love the crunch, and it turned out to be a hit! The secret is to mix the dry ingredients gently to keep the brownies fudgy. I also use high-quality chocolate for an extra rich flavor, which really elevates the dessert.

I usually serve them warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side. The contrast of the warm brownies with icy ice cream is heavenly! For the ultimate indulgence, try drizzling melted chocolate over the top before serving; it’s a simple yet effective way to impress your guests.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich chocolate flavor paired with crunchy nuts
Fudgy texture that melts in your mouth
Perfect for parties, or simply enjoying at home

      

The Role of Cocoa in Brownies

Cocoa powder is the star ingredient in these brownies, providing a rich, deep chocolate flavor that's hard to beat. When selecting cocoa powder, I recommend using high-quality Dutch-processed cocoa for a smoother flavor profile and darker color. The unique processing method removes much of the acidity, leaving behind a mellow chocolatey experience. Using unsweetened cocoa allows you to control the sweetness perfectly when combined with sugar, making each brownie a true chocolate indulgence.

Properly sifting the cocoa powder ensures there are no clumps, which is crucial for achieving a uniform batter. Mixing well during the batter-making process helps create a glossy appearance that indicates air has been incorporated, pivotal for the fudgy texture. If you're someone who prefers a richer chocolate flavor, you might consider adding a touch of dark chocolate or even swapping out some cocoa powder for melted chocolate in the wet ingredients—just adjust the flour accordingly.

Choosing the Right Nuts

The choice of nuts can significantly influence the texture and flavor of your brownies. While walnuts and pecans add a delightful crunch, feel free to experiment with other nuts like almonds or hazelnuts to suit your preference. I personally love adding hazelnuts for their unique taste, but just be sure to chop them finely to disperse their flavor evenly throughout the batter.

Toasting the nuts before folding them into the batter enhances their flavor profile, intensifying the nutty aroma in the brownies. Simply lay them on a baking sheet and toast in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes until golden and fragrant. Allow them to cool before adding to ensure they don't alter the batter's consistency and risk overbaking.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make these delicious brownies:

Brownie Ingredients

1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
2 cups granulated sugar
1 cup unsalted butter, melted
4 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 cup mixed nuts (walnuts and pecans), chopped

Gather your ingredients and prepare for a decadent treat!

Instructions

Follow these steps to bake your brownies:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9x13 inch baking pan with parchment paper.

Mix Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine melted butter and sugar. Mix well until fully incorporated. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition, then stir in the vanilla extract.

Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, sift together cocoa powder, flour, and salt. Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.

Add Nuts

Fold in the chopped nuts, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.

Bake

Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and bake for 25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with moist crumbs.

Cool and Serve

Allow the brownies to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then lift them out using the parchment paper. Cut into squares and enjoy!

Once cooled, serve these brownies with ice cream or enjoy them plain!

Pro Tips

For an added layer of flavor, try adding a teaspoon of espresso powder into the batter for a richer chocolate experience.

Storing and Freezing Brownies

These brownies can be stored at room temperature, tightly covered, for up to 4 days. For longer life, consider freezing them in an airtight container. I recommend wrapping each brownie individually in plastic wrap before placing them in the freezer; this way, you can easily pull one out whenever the craving strikes. They will maintain optimal freshness for up to 3 months when stored properly.

To reheat frozen brownies, let them thaw in the refrigerator overnight or microwave individual pieces for about 15-20 seconds. A quick refresher in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5 minutes can restore their fudgy texture beautifully, making them taste freshly baked.

Variations and Serving Suggestions

If you want to spice things up, consider adding a swirl of peanut butter or hazelnut spread to your brownie batter before baking. Simply drop spoonfuls in and use a knife to create a beautiful marbled effect. Alternatively, you could fold in chocolate chips for an extra chocolatey bite or even a splash of espresso for a deeper flavor that complements the cocoa.

These brownies are delicious on their own, but serving them warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of chocolate ganache can elevate them to a whole new level. Top with a sprinkle of sea salt or a dusting of powdered sugar for an elegant finish that flatters the rich taste.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I substitute the nuts?

Yes, you can use any type of nuts or even chocolate chips if you prefer.

→ How should I store these brownies?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.

→ Can I freeze the brownies?

Absolutely! Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months.

→ What’s the best way to cut brownies?

Use a sharp knife and wipe it clean between cuts for neat edges.