Irresistibly Gooey: Sweetened Condensed Milk Brownies Recipe

Are you ready to bake a batch of brownies that are fudgy, decadent, and utterly irresistible? Look no further than this amazing recipe for Sweetened Condensed Milk Brownies! The addition of sweetened condensed milk creates a uniquely moist and chewy texture, setting these brownies apart from the rest. Get ready to experience brownie perfection!

Why Sweetened Condensed Milk?

Sweetened condensed milk is a game-changer in baking. It adds sweetness, richness, and moisture all at once. In these brownies, it contributes to their unbelievably gooey center and prevents them from becoming dry or cakey. The result is a brownie that melts in your mouth with every bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Before we dive into the recipe, let’s gather all the necessary ingredients. This ensures a smooth and efficient baking process. Here’s what you’ll need:

* **Unsalted Butter:** 1 cup (2 sticks), melted
* **Granulated Sugar:** 1 cup
* **Sweetened Condensed Milk:** 1 (14-ounce) can
* **Eggs:** 2 large
* **Vanilla Extract:** 1 teaspoon
* **All-Purpose Flour:** 1 cup
* **Unsweetened Cocoa Powder:** ½ cup
* **Salt:** ¼ teaspoon
* **Chocolate Chips:** ½ cup (optional, for extra chocolatey goodness)

Equipment Needed

* **Mixing Bowls:** Two medium-sized mixing bowls
* **Baking Pan:** 8×8 inch square baking pan
* **Parchment Paper:** For lining the baking pan
* **Whisk:** For mixing wet ingredients
* **Spatula:** For folding dry ingredients and spreading batter
* **Measuring Cups and Spoons:** For accurate measurements
* **Oven:** Preheated to 350°F (175°C)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Now, let’s get baking! Follow these detailed instructions for perfect Sweetened Condensed Milk Brownies every time.

Step 1: Prepare the Baking Pan

First things first, let’s prepare the baking pan. This will prevent the brownies from sticking and make it easy to remove them once they’re baked.

1. **Line the Baking Pan:** Cut a piece of parchment paper long enough to overhang on two sides of the 8×8 inch baking pan. This creates a sling that will help you lift the brownies out easily.
2. **Grease the Pan:** Lightly grease the bottom and sides of the baking pan with butter or cooking spray. This provides an extra layer of protection against sticking.
3. **Place Parchment Paper:** Press the parchment paper into the pan, ensuring it covers the bottom and extends up the sides. The overhang should be equal on both sides.

Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients

Next, we’ll combine the wet ingredients. This is crucial for creating a smooth and homogenous batter.

1. **Melt the Butter:** In a microwave-safe bowl or saucepan, melt the butter completely. Let it cool slightly before proceeding.
2. **Combine Butter and Sugar:** In a medium-sized mixing bowl, pour the melted butter and add the granulated sugar. Whisk them together until well combined and slightly lightened in color.
3. **Add Sweetened Condensed Milk:** Pour in the entire can of sweetened condensed milk. Whisk until the mixture is smooth and creamy. The sweetened condensed milk will add a beautiful richness to the batter.
4. **Incorporate Eggs and Vanilla:** Add the eggs one at a time, whisking well after each addition. This ensures that the eggs are fully incorporated into the batter. Stir in the vanilla extract for a boost of flavor.

Step 3: Combine the Dry Ingredients

Now, let’s prepare the dry ingredients. This step is essential for preventing lumps and ensuring even distribution of flavors.

1. **Whisk Dry Ingredients:** In a separate medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, unsweetened cocoa powder, and salt. Whisk them together until well combined. This ensures that the cocoa powder is evenly distributed throughout the flour.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

It’s time to bring everything together! This is where the magic happens.

1. **Gradually Add Dry Ingredients:** Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix the batter, as this can result in tough brownies. Use a spatula to gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until no streaks of flour remain.
2. **Add Chocolate Chips (Optional):** If you’re using chocolate chips, fold them into the batter. This adds a delightful burst of chocolatey goodness to every bite.

Step 5: Bake the Brownies

Now it’s time to bake these beauties to perfection.

1. **Pour Batter into Pan:** Pour the brownie batter into the prepared baking pan. Spread it evenly with a spatula.
2. **Bake:** Place the baking pan in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with moist crumbs attached. The baking time may vary depending on your oven, so keep a close eye on the brownies.
3. **Cool:** Once the brownies are baked, remove them from the oven and let them cool completely in the pan before cutting. This allows them to set properly and prevents them from crumbling.

Step 6: Cut and Serve

The final step is the best part – enjoying your homemade Sweetened Condensed Milk Brownies!

1. **Lift Brownies from Pan:** Using the parchment paper overhang, lift the brownies out of the baking pan.
2. **Cut into Squares:** Place the brownies on a cutting board and cut them into squares. A warm knife can help you achieve clean cuts.
3. **Serve:** Serve the brownies immediately or store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

Tips for Perfect Sweetened Condensed Milk Brownies

Here are some tips to ensure your brownies turn out perfectly every time:

* **Use High-Quality Ingredients:** Using high-quality ingredients, such as good cocoa powder and chocolate chips, can significantly impact the flavor of your brownies.
* **Don’t Overmix the Batter:** Overmixing the batter can result in tough brownies. Mix the wet and dry ingredients until just combined.
* **Adjust Baking Time:** Baking times may vary depending on your oven. Keep a close eye on the brownies and adjust the baking time as needed.
* **Let Brownies Cool Completely:** Letting the brownies cool completely before cutting prevents them from crumbling and allows them to set properly.
* **Add a Pinch of Espresso Powder:** For a deeper, richer flavor, add a pinch of espresso powder to the dry ingredients.
* **Experiment with Toppings:** Get creative with toppings! Try adding nuts, caramel sauce, or a sprinkle of sea salt.

Variations and Add-Ins

Want to customize your brownies? Here are some delicious variations and add-ins to try:

* **Peanut Butter Swirl:** Swirl peanut butter into the batter before baking for a nutty twist.
* **Caramel Brownies:** Drizzle caramel sauce over the baked brownies for a sweet and decadent treat.
* **Nutella Brownies:** Add a few dollops of Nutella to the batter before baking for a hazelnut-flavored delight.
* **Mint Chocolate Brownies:** Add a teaspoon of peppermint extract to the batter and top with mint chocolate chips.
* **Salted Caramel Brownies:** Sprinkle sea salt over the caramel drizzle for a sweet and salty combination.
* **Double Chocolate Brownies:** Increase the amount of chocolate chips for an extra chocolatey experience. Use both semi-sweet and dark chocolate chips.
* **Brownie Sundaes:** Serve warm brownies with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, chocolate sauce, and your favorite toppings.

Storage Instructions

* **Room Temperature:** Store the brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. They will maintain their moist and chewy texture.
* **Refrigerator:** For longer storage, store the brownies in the refrigerator for up to a week. However, they may become slightly firmer.
* **Freezer:** Freeze the brownies for up to 2 months. Wrap them individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Thaw them at room temperature before serving.

Serving Suggestions

Sweetened Condensed Milk Brownies are delicious on their own, but here are some serving suggestions to elevate your brownie experience:

* **With Ice Cream:** Serve warm brownies with a scoop of vanilla, chocolate, or coffee ice cream.
* **With Whipped Cream:** Top the brownies with a dollop of freshly whipped cream.
* **With Chocolate Sauce:** Drizzle warm chocolate sauce over the brownies.
* **With Berries:** Serve the brownies with a side of fresh berries, such as strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries.
* **With Coffee or Tea:** Enjoy the brownies with a cup of hot coffee or tea.
* **As a Dessert Bar:** Cut the brownies into smaller squares and serve them as part of a dessert bar with other treats.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

* **Brownies are too dry:** Make sure you are using the correct amount of sweetened condensed milk and butter. Also, avoid overbaking the brownies.
* **Brownies are too gooey:** Reduce the baking time slightly or add a tablespoon or two of flour to the batter.
* **Brownies are not rising:** Ensure that your baking powder (if using) is fresh. Also, avoid overmixing the batter.
* **Brownies are sticking to the pan:** Make sure you have properly lined and greased the baking pan.

Nutritional Information (Approximate)

* Calories: 250-300 per serving
* Fat: 15-20g
* Saturated Fat: 10-12g
* Cholesterol: 50-60mg
* Sodium: 50-70mg
* Carbohydrates: 30-35g
* Sugar: 20-25g
* Protein: 3-4g

Conclusion

These Sweetened Condensed Milk Brownies are a must-try recipe for any brownie lover. Their gooey texture, rich flavor, and easy preparation make them a perfect treat for any occasion. Whether you’re baking for a party, a family gathering, or simply to satisfy your sweet tooth, these brownies are sure to impress. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to bake a batch of brownie perfection!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. **Can I use a different type of flour?**
* While all-purpose flour is recommended for this recipe, you can experiment with other types of flour, such as gluten-free flour blend, but the texture may vary.

2. **Can I reduce the amount of sugar?**
* Reducing the sugar may affect the texture and sweetness of the brownies. It’s best to stick to the recipe for the best results.

3. **Can I use dark chocolate instead of cocoa powder?**
* Yes, you can use melted dark chocolate instead of cocoa powder. Use about 4 ounces of melted dark chocolate and reduce the amount of butter slightly.

4. **Can I make these brownies ahead of time?**
* Yes, you can make these brownies ahead of time and store them at room temperature or in the refrigerator.

5. **Can I add nuts to the batter?**
* Absolutely! Feel free to add chopped nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, to the batter for added texture and flavor.

6. **What is the best way to cut brownies cleanly?**
* Let the brownies cool completely. Use a warm, clean knife. You can also spray the knife with cooking spray to prevent sticking.

7. **Can I bake these in a different size pan?**
* Yes, but you will need to adjust the baking time accordingly. A larger pan will require a shorter baking time, and a smaller pan will require a longer baking time.

8. **Why are my brownies cakey?**
* Cakey brownies are usually the result of overmixing the batter or adding too much flour. Be sure to mix the batter until just combined and measure the flour accurately.

9. **Can I add frosting to these brownies?**
* Definitely! These brownies taste amazing with chocolate frosting, cream cheese frosting, or any other frosting of your choice.

10. **What makes these brownies so gooey?**
* The addition of sweetened condensed milk is what makes these brownies incredibly gooey and moist. It adds richness and prevents them from drying out.