One bowl cakey brownies are a perfect choice for anyone who loves a soft, cake-like texture but doesn’t want the fuss of multiple bowls or complex steps. In this guide, we’ll show you how to create these delicious brownies quickly and easily.
Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just getting started, these brownies are sure to become a favorite. We’ve even included some great internal linking opportunities to make the most of related recipes and tips on the same site!
What Makes Brownies Cakey?
The key to achieving the perfect cakey texture in brownies is balancing the ingredients. Unlike fudgy brownies, which rely on more butter and less flour, cakey brownies need more flour and the addition of baking powder to give them a light, airy rise.
If you’re curious about the differences between the types of brownies—fudgy, chewy, and cakey—you can learn more by visiting The Three Types of Brownies: How to Make Each.
Ingredients for One Bowl Cakey Brownies
To make these brownies, you only need a few basic ingredients:
- All-purpose flour – Gives the brownies structure and helps create the light, cake-like texture.
- Cocoa powder – For rich chocolate flavor.
- Sugar – Sweetens the batter and adds moisture.
- Butter or oil – Helps keep the brownies moist and tender.
- Eggs – Provide binding and help the brownies rise.
- Baking powder – The secret to that perfect cakey rise.
- Optional: Chocolate chips, nuts, or flavor extracts like vanilla.
Looking to explore a delicious variation? You can check out this Delicious Cakey Brownie Recipe from Scratch for a unique twist on the classic!
Step-by-Step Guide to Making One Bowl Cakey Brownies
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Start by gathering your ingredients and tools. You’ll need a large mixing bowl, a whisk or spatula, and an 8×8-inch baking pan lined with parchment paper.
- Measure dry ingredients carefully, as too much flour can make the brownies too dense.
- Sift flour and cocoa powder to avoid lumps in your batter.
Step 2: Mix the Batter
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the butter, sugar, and eggs until smooth. Then, add the sifted flour, cocoa powder, and baking powder.
- Stir gently until the ingredients are just combined to avoid overmixing, which can lead to dense brownies.
- Fold in extras like chocolate chips or nuts if you’d like.
Step 3: Baking
Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Pour the batter into your prepared baking pan and bake for 20-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- These brownies should have a springy top when done.
- Be careful not to overbake, as this can dry them out.
- Let the brownies cool completely before cutting them into squares.
Troubleshooting: Common Issues with Cakey Brownies
Here are some tips for avoiding common issues with cakey brownies:
- Too dry? You may have overbaked the brownies. Reduce the baking time slightly or increase the amount of butter or oil.
- Too dense? Overmixing the batter can lead to dense brownies. Stir until just combined.
- Crumbling? Underbaking or using too little fat can cause brownies to crumble. Make sure your oven is properly preheated.
Want to learn more about preventing crumbly brownies? Check out this helpful guide on Why Do Brownies Crumble? Causes, Fixes, and Tips.
Flavor Variations and Add-Ins
You can easily customize your one bowl cakey brownies with these ideas:
- Add-ins: Stir in chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruit to add texture and flavor.
- Flavor twists: Swirl in caramel or peanut butter before baking for a fun twist.
- Healthier options: Try substituting some of the sugar with honey or using coconut oil instead of butter for a lighter version.