DEEP-DARK FUDGY BROWNIES

DEEP-DARK FUDGY BROWNIES image

Yield 16 brownies

Number Of Ingredients 11

2/3 cup (3 ounces) Cocoa powder
1 1/2 cups (10 1/2 ounces) granulated sugar
1/2 cup (2 ounces) confectioners' sugar
3/4 teaspoon salt
1 cup (4 1/4 ounces) Unbleached All-Purpose Flour
1 tablespoon espresso powder
1 cup (4 ounces) toasted pecans or walnuts, diced (optional)
1 cup (6 ounces) semisweet chocolate chips (optional)
3 large eggs
1/2 cup (3 1/2 ounces) vegetable oil
2 tablespoons(1 ounce) water or brewed coffee

Steps:

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the cocoa, sugars, salt, flour, espresso powder, nuts, and chips. Add the eggs, oil, and water or coffee, mixing just until smooth. Spoon the mixture into a lightly greased 8 x 8" or 9 x 9" square pan, smoothing the top. Bake the brownies in a preheated 350°F oven for about 35 minutes (for the 9" pan), or 45 minutes (for the 8" pan). To see if the brownies are done, remove the pan from the oven, and stick the tip of a sharp knife into the center of the brownies. Wriggle it around just enough to see what's going on. Is the batter under the crust still shiny, wet, and smooth? Continue to bake the brownies, checking frequently. Is it ultra-moist, but not shiny, and "crumby" looking? Take them out, they're done.