Name: Ultra-Fudgy Chocolate Brownies with Ganache Swirl
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: For the Brownies:; 3/4 cup unsalted butter; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup brown sugar; 3 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1/2 cup all-purpose flour; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips (optional); For the Ganache Swirl:; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips or chopped chocolate

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

These ultra-fudgy chocolate brownies are rich, indulgent, and topped with a signature crackly crust. Enhanced with a decadent ganache swirl or chocolate center, these brownies are a step above the classic, delivering the perfect bite every time.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Intensely chocolatey with a soft, gooey center and crisp top.
The ganache swirl or melted chocolate puddle adds extra richness.
One-bowl batter — no mixer needed.
Great for sharing, gifting, or freezing for later.
Can be made with pantry staples and easy to customize.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the brownies:

Unsalted butter (melted)
Granulated sugar
Brown sugar
Eggs
Vanilla extract
Unsweetened cocoa powder
All-purpose flour
Salt
Optional: chocolate chips or chunks

For the ganache swirl (optional):

Semi-sweet or dark chocolate, chopped
Heavy cream

Directions

Preheat oven to 175 °C (350 °F). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
In a large bowl, whisk together melted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until glossy.
Add eggs one at a time, beating vigorously after each. Stir in vanilla.
Sift in cocoa powder, flour, and salt. Fold gently until just combined.
Pour batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top.
If using ganache, melt chopped chocolate and cream together until smooth, then dollop and swirl into the batter with a knife.
Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out with a few moist crumbs.
Let cool completely in the pan before slicing into squares.

Servings and timing

Makes 12–16 brownies depending on cut size.
Prep time: 15 minutes
Bake time: 25–30 minutes
Cooling time: 30 minutes
Total time: approximately 1 hour 15 minutes

Variations

Swirl in peanut butter, caramel, or Nutella instead of ganache.
Add espresso powder for a mocha version.
Mix in chopped walnuts or pecans for texture.
Replace cocoa powder with melted dark chocolate for an even denser crumb.
Top with sea salt flakes just before baking for a gourmet touch.

Storage/reheating

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Refrigerate for up to 5 days for a denser texture.
Freeze individually wrapped squares for up to 2 months.
Reheat briefly in the microwave (10–15 seconds) for a gooey finish.

FAQs

What makes these brownies extra fudgy?

A high fat-to-flour ratio, minimal baking time, and no leavening agents ensure a dense, gooey texture.

Can I use all brown sugar instead of granulated?

Yes. Brown sugar adds moisture and chewiness, but may reduce the shiny crust.

How do I swirl in the ganache properly?

Drop spoonfuls over the batter and use a knife to gently swirl without overmixing. Do not fully blend it in.

Can I make these brownies dairy-free?

Yes, use vegan butter and a non-dairy cream alternative for the ganache.

How do I avoid overbaking?

Bake until a toothpick inserted near the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. The brownies continue to cook as they cool.

Can I make these gluten-free?

Yes, use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Texture may vary slightly but will remain delicious.

Can I double this recipe?

Yes, double the ingredients and bake in a 9×13-inch pan for about 35–40 minutes.

Why is the top shiny and crackly?

Beating the eggs and sugar mixture well helps create a meringue-like crust during baking.

Can I use Dutch-processed cocoa powder?

Yes, but the flavor will be more mellow. Natural cocoa gives a slightly sharper, darker taste.

What can I serve with these brownies?

Try a scoop of vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or a drizzle of caramel for a plated dessert.

Conclusion

These ultra-fudgy brownies with a ganache swirl are a rich, chocolate-lover’s dream — featuring a crackled top, dense center, and silky finish. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or simply treating yourself, this indulgent recipe is always a standout.

Ultra-Fudgy Chocolate Brownies with Ganache Swirl

Print Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

These ultra-fudgy chocolate brownies are rich, dense, and intensely chocolatey, with a luscious ganache swirl on top that takes them over the edge. A decadent treat for serious chocolate lovers.

Author: Emma Harper
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 50 mins
Yield: 16 brownies 1x
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegetarian

Instructions

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
In a saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Remove from heat and whisk in granulated sugar and brown sugar until smooth.
Whisk in the eggs, one at a time, followed by vanilla extract.
Sift in cocoa powder, flour, and salt. Stir until just combined. Fold in chocolate chips if using.
Pour the brownie batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top.
For the ganache, heat the heavy cream until just simmering. Pour over the chocolate chips and let sit for 2 minutes, then stir until smooth.
Spoon the ganache over the brownie batter in dollops and use a knife or skewer to swirl it through the top.
Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted near the edge comes out with a few moist crumbs (avoid the ganache when testing).
Cool completely in the pan before slicing.

Notes

Chill the brownies before slicing for cleaner edges.
Add a pinch of espresso powder to enhance the chocolate flavor.
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.