There’s something universally appealing about a brownie that hits just the right notes of crispy and chewy. For many, the perfect brownie experience includes the coveted crispy edges and a gooey, chewy center. Traditionally, these qualities are hard to achieve in a single pan, often leading to the age-old battle over corner pieces. However, by baking brownies in muffin pans, you can ensure each brownie has the perfect balance of crispy outside and chewy inside, with the added bonus of pre-portioned servings. Here’s how to make these delightful treats.
Ingredients:
- 2 boxes of brownie mix: Choose your favorite brand or homemade recipe.
- Ingredients listed on the brownie mix boxes: Typically, this includes eggs, water, and oil.
- 1 extra egg: This addition helps to enhance the chewiness of the brownies.
- Nonstick spray: To ensure the brownies release easily from the muffin pans.
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Proper preheating ensures even cooking.
- Prepare the Muffin Pans:
- Generously spray two 12-cup muffin pans with nonstick spray. It’s crucial to coat every part of the muffin cups to prevent sticking and facilitate easy removal of the brownies.
- Mix the Brownie Batter:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the contents of the two boxes of brownie mix.
- Follow the package instructions, typically adding the required amount of eggs, water, and oil.
- Incorporate the additional egg to enhance the texture, making the brownies chewier and ensuring they hold together well.
- Fill the Muffin Pans:
- Using a spoon or a cookie scoop, evenly distribute the brownie batter into the muffin cups. Fill each cup about two-thirds full to allow the brownies to rise without overflowing.
- Bake the Brownies:
- Place the muffin pans in the preheated oven. Bake for approximately 20 minutes. It’s important to keep an eye on them towards the end of the baking time to prevent overbaking.
- To test for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center of a brownie. If it comes out mostly clean with a few moist crumbs, they are ready.
- Cool the Brownies:
- Remove the muffin pans from the oven and let the brownies cool in the pans for about 5 minutes. This brief cooling period allows the brownies to set, making them easier to remove.
- Remove from Pans:
- Using the tip of a butter knife, gently loosen and pop each brownie out of the muffin pan. Be careful not to scratch the surface if you are using a nonstick pan.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- These brownies are delicious served warm or at room temperature. They are perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a party, a lunchbox treat, or a simple snack.
Tips for Perfect Muffin Pan Brownies:
- Nonstick Spray:
- Invest in a high-quality nonstick spray to ensure the brownies come out of the pan easily. Alternatively, silicone muffin pans are an excellent option as they often require less or no greasing.
- Extra Egg:
- The additional egg in the batter helps create a chewier texture and ensures the brownies hold their shape better when baked in individual portions.
- Avoid Overbaking:
- Overbaked brownies can become dry and crumbly. Check the brownies a few minutes before the recommended baking time to ensure they are not overdone.
- Toppings and Mix-Ins:
- Customize your brownies by adding toppings like chocolate chips, nuts, or a sprinkle of sea salt before baking. Mix-ins such as crushed cookies, caramel bits, or swirls of peanut butter can add exciting flavors and textures.
- Storage:
- Store the brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, they can be frozen and thawed as needed.
Why Muffin Pan Brownies?
Muffin pan brownies offer several advantages over traditional square or rectangular pans. Firstly, they provide the perfect ratio of crispy edges to chewy centers in every piece. This method ensures uniformity in baking, as each brownie gets an equal amount of heat exposure. Secondly, muffin pan brownies are already portioned, making them convenient for serving at parties or packing in lunchboxes. Lastly, this method reduces the common problem of cutting brownies from a larger pan, which can sometimes lead to uneven pieces or crumbly edges.
Muffin pan brownies are a delightful twist on the classic brownie, offering the perfect balance of crispy and chewy in every bite. This method not only guarantees uniformity and convenience but also enhances the overall brownie experience. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or simply indulging in a sweet treat, muffin pan brownies are sure to impress. Give this method a try and enjoy the deliciousness of perfectly portioned, crispy-edged, chewy-centered brownies.
