Gooey Brownies with Shortbread Crust

Ingredients and Weight:

• For the shortbread crust:
  • 1 1/2 cups (187g) all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup (113g) granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter, cold and cut into small cubes
• For the brownies:
  • 1 cup (227g) unsalted butter, melted
  • 2 cups (454g) granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon (5g) vanilla extract
  • 1 cup (120g) all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup (60g) unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon (3g) baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon (3g) salt

Preparation Time:

• 20 minutes

Cooking Time:

• 30-35 minutes

Difficulty Level:

• 2 (easy)

Preparation Method Steps:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. For the shortbread crust: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour and sugar. Use your fingers to work the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs. Press the shortbread crust mixture evenly into the bottom of an 8x8 inch baking pan.
3. For the brownies: In a large bowl, whisk together the melted butter and sugar until smooth. Add in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until just combined.
4. Pour the brownie batter over the shortbread crust. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with just a few moist crumbs attached.
5. Let the brownies cool completely before cutting into squares.

Nutritional Information:

• Serving size: 1 square (approx. 1/8 of the pan)
• Calories: 350
• Fat: 20g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Protein: 5g

Dish Characteristics:

• Rich and fudgy brownies with a crisp and buttery shortbread crust.
• Perfectly balanced sweetness with a hint of salt.
• Ideal for special occasions or as a decadent dessert.

User Comments:

• "These brownies are absolutely incredible! The shortbread crust adds the perfect crunch to the gooey brownies."
• "I've tried many brownie recipes before, but these are by far the best. They're moist, chocolatey, and have the perfect texture."
• "I love the combination of the shortbread and brownie. It's like getting the best of both worlds."
• "Perfect for any chocolate lover. These brownies are sure to impress."
• "I highly recommend trying these brownies. They're easy to make and absolutely delicious."

Special Precautions and Tips:

• Do not overmix the batter, as this can result in tough brownies.
• If you don't have a square baking pan, you can use a 9x9 inch pan instead. Just adjust the baking time accordingly (about 25-30 minutes).
• Let the brownies cool completely before cutting into them to ensure a clean cut.
• Store the brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.