Brown Butter Crinkle Top Brownies

Name: Brown Butter Crinkle Top Brownies
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 1/2 sticks (12 tablespoons) salted butter; 1 bag (10 ounces) mini chocolate chips; 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar; 4 large eggs (room temperature); 1/2 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 3/4 teaspoon baking powder; 1 cup semi-sweet or dark chocolate chunks

Published: April 13, 2026

by Amelia

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick to Prepare: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can whip up these delicious brownies in no time.
Irresistible Flavor: The deep, nutty taste from the brown butter adds a unique twist that elevates this classic dessert.
Fudgy Texture: These brownies are thick and gooey, providing that perfect melt-in-your-mouth experience.
Versatile Treat: Perfect for parties, potlucks, or simply as an after-dinner treat; they suit any occasion!
Simple Ingredients: Made with everyday pantry staples, you don’t need to run to the store for fancy items.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather your essential tools. Having the right equipment makes baking easier and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Mixing bowls
Whisk
Pot for browning butter
9×9 inch square pan
Parchment paper

Importance of Each Tool

Mixing bowls: Having multiple sizes helps in separating wet and dry ingredients effectively.
Whisk: A good whisk ensures that your ingredients blend seamlessly for a smooth batter.
Pot for browning butter: A heavy-bottomed pot helps achieve even heat distribution while browning the butter.
9×9 inch square pan: This size is ideal for achieving perfectly baked brownies without overcooking them.

Ingredients

To make these delightful brownies, you’ll need the following:

For the Brownie Base

1 1/2 sticks (12 tablespoons) salted butter
1 bag (10 ounce) mini chocolate chips
1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
2 teaspoons instant coffee granules
4 large eggs at room temperature

For the Dry Ingredients

1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
3/4 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon sea salt

For Extra Chocolatey Goodness

1 cup semi-sweet or dark chocolate chunks

How to Make Brown Butter Crinkle Top Brownies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350° F. Line a 9×9 inch square pan with parchment paper so the brownies release easily after baking.

Step 2: Brown the Butter

Add the salted butter to a pot set over medium heat. Allow it to brown lightly until it smells toasted, about 2-3 minutes. Remove it from heat and mix in the mini chocolate chips until melted. Stir in vanilla extract and instant coffee granules.

Step 3: Whisk Eggs and Combine Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs for about one minute until they’re bubbly on top. Pour in the melted chocolate mixture along with powdered sugar, whisking until it’s smooth—about 1-2 minutes.

Step 4: Add Dry Ingredients

Next, add all-purpose flour, unsweetened cocoa powder, baking powder, and sea salt into the chocolate mixture. Stir gently until combined but don’t overmix! Finally, fold in chocolate chunks for added richness.

Step 5: Bake Your Brownies

Spread your brownie batter evenly into the prepared pan. Bake for 28-30 minutes or until they are just set and crinkly on top. If desired, sprinkle with flaked sea salt before serving.

Now you have your delicious batch of Brown Butter Crinkle Top Brownies! Enjoy this decadent treat with friends and family!

How to Serve Brown Butter Crinkle Top Brownies

Brown Butter Crinkle Top Brownies are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re serving them at a party or enjoying them at home, these brownies can be easily dressed up or down to suit the occasion.

A La Mode

Serve warm brownies with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top. The creamy ice cream balances the rich chocolate flavors perfectly.

With Fresh Berries

Pair your brownies with a side of fresh strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries. The tartness of the berries adds a refreshing contrast to the sweetness.

Drizzled with Caramel Sauce

Add a drizzle of caramel sauce over each brownie for an extra touch of sweetness and richness. This elevates the dessert experience.

Sprinkled with Sea Salt

For a gourmet twist, sprinkle flaked sea salt on top just before serving. It enhances the chocolate flavor and offers a delightful crunch.

As Brownie Sundaes

Create brownie sundaes by layering brownie pieces in a bowl, topping them with ice cream, whipped cream, and your favorite toppings like nuts or chocolate syrup.

In Gift Boxes

Cut brownies into squares and package them in decorative boxes as gifts. They make for a thoughtful and delicious present for friends and family.

How to Perfect Brown Butter Crinkle Top Brownies

To achieve the perfect batch of Brown Butter Crinkle Top Brownies, follow these handy tips that ensure consistency and flavor.

Use Room Temperature Eggs: This helps incorporate air into the batter more effectively, leading to better texture.
Brown Your Butter Carefully: Watch it closely while browning; you want it deep golden but not burnt for the best flavor.
Don’t Overmix: When combining dry ingredients, mix just until incorporated to maintain fudginess.
Check Baking Time: Keep an eye on your brownies as they bake; they should be set but still soft in the center for that perfect fudgy texture.
Cool Before Cutting: Allow brownies to cool completely in the pan before cutting for cleaner edges and easier handling.
Store Properly: Keep brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to four days for maximum freshness.

Best Side Dishes for Brown Butter Crinkle Top Brownies

Pairing side dishes with your Brown Butter Crinkle Top Brownies can enhance your dessert experience. Here are some great options to consider:

Vanilla Ice Cream: A classic pairing that complements the rich chocolate flavors beautifully.
Whipped Cream: Light and airy, whipped cream adds a lovely texture contrast when served alongside brownies.
Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits provides freshness and balances out the sweetness of the brownies.
Chocolate Sauce: Drizzling extra chocolate sauce over brownies creates an indulgent dessert experience.
Coffee or Espresso: A warm cup of coffee enhances the flavors in your brownies and provides a nice contrast.
Nuts: Serve roasted nuts on the side for added crunch and flavor that pairs well with chocolate.
Caramel Sauce: Offering caramel as a dipping option adds another layer of sweetness that pairs well with rich brownies.
Milkshakes: A thick milkshake complements brownies perfectly, blending sweetness with creaminess for an ultimate treat.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking can be tricky, especially when making brownies. Here are some common mistakes to steer clear of for the perfect batch of Brown Butter Crinkle Top Brownies.

Skipping the browning process: Not browning the butter can lead to less flavor. Take the time to let it brown until it smells toasted.
Using cold eggs: Cold eggs can affect the batter’s consistency. Always use room temperature eggs for a smoother mixture.
Overmixing the batter: Overmixing can lead to tough brownies. Mix until just combined for a fudgy texture.
Not measuring ingredients properly: Incorrect measurements can ruin your brownies. Use a kitchen scale or measuring cups for accuracy.
Opening the oven door too soon: This can cause your brownies to sink. Wait until they are almost done before checking on them.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Duration: Store in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Containers: Use an airtight container to keep them fresh.

Freezing Brown Butter Crinkle Top Brownies

Duration: Freeze brownies for up to 3 months.
Containers: Wrap each brownie tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag.

Reheating Brown Butter Crinkle Top Brownies

Oven: Preheat to 350°F and heat for about 10 minutes for a warm, fresh taste.
Microwave: Heat individual brownies for about 10-15 seconds for a quick treat.
Stovetop: Use a skillet over low heat, covering it with a lid until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common queries regarding Brown Butter Crinkle Top Brownies that might help you bake confidently.

Can I substitute chocolate chips?

Yes, you can use any type of chocolate chips or chunks you prefer, such as milk or dark chocolate.

How do I know when my brownies are done?

The edges should look set, and the center should be slightly soft but not liquidy. A toothpick inserted should come out with moist crumbs.

What makes these brownies crinkle on top?

The crinkly top results from the mixing technique and the sugar content. Ensure you whisk well after adding powdered sugar.

Can I add nuts or other mix-ins?

Absolutely! Feel free to fold in nuts, dried fruits, or even different types of chocolate for added texture and flavor.

Final Thoughts

These Brown Butter Crinkle Top Brownies are not only simple but also incredibly delicious. Their rich flavor and fudgy texture make them an irresistible treat. Plus, you can easily customize them with your favorite mix-ins or toppings. Give this recipe a try; you won’t be disappointed!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

📖 Recipe Card