When it comes to chocolate desserts, brownies often steal the spotlight. But have you ever wished you could have an entire batch of those crispy edges that everyone fights over? Enter brownie brittle—a thin, crunchy, chocolatey delight that combines all the flavors of a brownie in a perfectly crisp form.
This treat is a game-changer for anyone who loves chocolate but wants something lighter and snackable. Whether you’re packing a lunchbox, looking for an easy dessert, or just indulging your chocolate cravings, this brownie brittle recipe will become your new favorite.
Why You’ll Adore Brownie Brittle
- Crispy Texture: Every bite delivers a satisfying crunch that traditional brownies can’t match.
- Light and Portable: Unlike dense brownies, brownie brittle is easy to snack on anywhere.
- Customizable: Add chocolate chips, nuts, or even sprinkles to make it uniquely yours.
- Perfect for Gifting: Pack it in pretty bags or jars for an irresistible homemade gift.
Ingredients for the Best Brownie Brittle
Let’s gather the essentials to make this crispy chocolate treat. The recipe uses common pantry staples:
| Ingredient | Amount | Why It’s Needed |
|---|---|---|
| All-purpose flour 🌾 | 1 cup | Forms the structure of the brittle. |
| Cocoa powder 🍫 | 1/2 cup | Gives the brittle its rich chocolate flavor. |
| Baking soda 🧁 | 1/2 teaspoon | Helps with even baking and crispness. |
| Salt 🧂 | 1/4 teaspoon | Enhances the chocolate flavor. |
| Granulated sugar 🍬 | 1 cup | Adds sweetness and helps create crisp edges. |
| Brown sugar 🍯 | 1/2 cup | Adds moisture and a caramel-like depth. |
| Unsalted butter 🧈 | 1/2 cup (melted) | Adds richness and creates a smooth batter. |
| Eggs 🥚 | 2 large | Binds the ingredients together. |
| Vanilla extract 🍦 | 1 teaspoon | Adds a hint of sweetness and depth. |
| Chocolate chips 🍫 | 1/2 cup (optional) | Adds bursts of chocolate in every bite. |
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Brownie Brittle
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Set your oven to 325°F (163°C) and prepare a large baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper. This step ensures the brittle doesn’t stick and allows for easy cleanup.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. This ensures an even distribution of dry ingredients.
Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, mix the melted butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract. Stir until the mixture is smooth and well-blended.
Step 4: Create the Batter
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring until you have a thick, smooth batter. Fold in chocolate chips or other mix-ins if desired.
Step 5: Spread the Batter Thinly
Pour the batter onto the prepared baking sheet and use a spatula to spread it as thinly as possible. Spread it out in an even layer to guarantee uniform baking.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Bake in the preheated oven for 25–30 minutes or until the edges are crispy and the center is set. Keep a close eye during the last few minutes to avoid over-baking.
Step 7: Cool and Break
Remove the brittle from the oven and allow it to cool completely on the baking sheet. Once cooled, break it into irregular pieces to create that classic brittle look.
Tips for Perfect Brownie Brittle
1. Spread It Evenly
The thinner you spread the batter, the crispier the brownie brittle turns out. Uneven layers can lead to some parts being chewy instead of crunchy.
2. Customize the Mix-Ins
Chocolate chips, chopped nuts, mini marshmallows, or even crushed pretzels can be added to the batter for extra flavor and texture.
3. Use Quality Cocoa Powder
Opt for unsweetened cocoa powder of high quality for the best chocolate flavor. Dutch-processed cocoa powder can add a richer taste.
4. Let It Cool Completely
The brittle will firm up as it cools, so resist the urge to break it apart too soon.
5. Add a Sprinkle of Salt
A light sprinkle of sea salt before baking can enhance the chocolate flavor and add a touch of sophistication.
Variations to Try
1. Peanut Butter Brownie Brittle
Swirl a couple of tablespoons of peanut butter into the batter before spreading it on the baking sheet.
2. Mint Chocolate Brittle
Add a teaspoon of peppermint extract to the batter and sprinkle crushed peppermint candies on top before baking.
3. S’mores Brittle
Sprinkle mini marshmallows, graham cracker crumbs, and chocolate chips over the batter for a s’mores-inspired twist.
4. Gluten-Free Option
Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make the brittle suitable for gluten-sensitive friends and family.
5. Double Chocolate Delight
Use dark chocolate chips and drizzle melted white chocolate over the cooled brittle for a double dose of chocolate goodness.
How to Store Brownie Brittle
Brownie brittle is incredibly easy to store, making it a great make-ahead treat.
- At Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to a week.
- In the Freezer: Freeze in a zip-top bag for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before enjoying.
Serving Suggestions
Brownie brittle is incredibly versatile and pairs beautifully with a variety of accompaniments:
- With Ice Cream: Crumble it over vanilla ice cream for a crunchy topping.
- With Coffee: Enjoy with a cup of coffee for an afternoon pick-me-up.
- With Whipped Cream: Serve pieces topped with a dollop of whipped cream for a quick dessert.
FAQs About Brownie Brittle
1. Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes! Substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative and use dairy-free chocolate chips.
2. What if I don’t have parchment paper?
You can grease the baking sheet with butter or non-stick spray, but parchment paper is recommended for the best results.
3. How can I make it even crispier?
For an ultra-crispy texture, bake the brittle for a few extra minutes and let it cool completely before breaking.
4. Can I use a brownie mix?
Yes! Simply follow the instructions on the mix box but spread the batter thinly on a baking sheet instead of using a traditional pan.
Why Brownie Brittle is a Must-Try
Brownie brittle is the perfect combination of crunchy and chocolatey, making it a unique and irresistible treat. Its simplicity, versatility, and delicious flavor make it an excellent option for everything from casual snacking to gifting. Whether you’re a brownie edge lover or simply a chocolate enthusiast, this recipe is bound to become a staple in your baking repertoire.
