Why You’ll Love this Buttermilk Brownies Recipe
Why will you fall in love with this Buttermilk Brownies recipe? It’s all about the rich, chocolaty flavor that perfectly balances sweetness and depth.
The buttermilk adds a delightful tang, creating a moist, fudgy texture that melts in your mouth. Plus, the ease of preparation means you won’t spend hours in the kitchen. Just a few simple steps and you’ll have a batch of brownies that impresses everyone.
Whether you’re a novice or a seasoned baker, this recipe guarantees success. Trust me, once you try them, you’ll be hooked on these decadent treats!
Ingredients of Buttermilk Brownies
When it comes to whipping up a batch of Buttermilk Brownies, having the right ingredients is key to that fudgy, chocolatey goodness we all crave.
Let’s take a moment to gather everything you’ll need to get started on this delectable journey. Don’t worry, it might look a bit intimidating at first, but once you see all the sweet components come together, you’ll be ready to plunge in.
Plus, the combination of buttermilk and cocoa powder is what gives these brownies their signature flavor and texture—trust me, it’s a match made in dessert heaven.
Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 cup butter or margarine
- 1/3 cup Hershey cocoa powder (regular-type, dry)
- 2 cups sugar
- 1 cup water or coffee
- 2 cups unsifted all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 slightly beaten eggs
- 1/2 cup buttermilk
- 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- For the frosting:
- 1/4 cup butter
- 3 tablespoons Hershey cocoa powder (regular-type, dry)
- 3 tablespoons buttermilk
- 2 1/4 cups powdered sugar (confectioners’)
- 1/2-1 teaspoon vanilla extract (your preference)
- 1/2 cup black walnuts or a similar type of nuts
Now, let’s chat a bit about these ingredients.
First off, if you’re wondering whether to use butter or margarine, go with what you have on hand. They both work, but butter tends to add a richer flavor.
And about that buttermilk—don’t skip it! It’s what gives the brownies that moist, melt-in-your-mouth texture, plus a little zing that balances the sweetness.
If you’re out of buttermilk, you can always make a quick substitute with regular milk and a splash of vinegar or lemon juice. Just let it sit for a few minutes, and voilà, you’re good to go.
And as for the nuts, if you’re not a fan of black walnuts, feel free to swap in your favorite variety or even skip them altogether if you prefer your brownies nut-free.
Whatever path you choose, these brownies are sure to be a hit.
Now, let’s get to the fun part—making them!
How to Make Buttermilk Brownies
Alright, let’s plunge into the delicious world of Buttermilk Brownies. First things first, grab a saucepan because we’re about to get that chocolatey goodness going. You’ll need 1 cup of butter or margarine, which you’ll toss into the saucepan along with 1/3 cup of Hershey cocoa powder and 2 cups of sugar. Oh, and don’t forget the 1 cup of water or coffee—yes, coffee! It adds a little extra depth to the flavor. Stir this mixture over medium heat until it comes to a boil, and you might just find yourself daydreaming about how good these brownies are going to taste.
Once it’s bubbling and fragrant, remove it from the heat and set it aside to cool a bit.
Next up, in a large mixing bowl, let’s tackle the dry ingredients. Combine 2 cups of unsifted all-purpose flour with 1 teaspoon of baking soda and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Give it a quick stir to mix them up.
Now, in a separate small bowl, you’ll want to whisk together 1/2 cup of buttermilk, 2 slightly beaten eggs, and 1 1/2 teaspoons of vanilla extract. This is where the magic happens—the buttermilk adds that moist, tender texture we love. After that, pour the buttermilk mixture into your dry ingredients and mix until it’s smooth. It might be a bit thick, so don’t be shy about scraping down the sides of the bowl.
Now, gradually add the cooled chocolate mixture to the batter, mixing on a low setting until everything is combined. You want it to be well-blended but don’t overdo it—this isn’t a workout, just a brownie batter.
Finally, pour your luscious brownie batter into a greased 10 1/2 x 14 3/4 x 2 1/4 inch baking dish and pop it into the oven preheated to 375°F. Bake for about 25 minutes, but keep an eye on it—every oven is a little different. You’ll know they’re ready when a toothpick inserted comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs.
While those beauties are baking, let’s talk frosting. In a saucepan, combine 1/4 cup of butter, 3 tablespoons of cocoa powder, and 3 tablespoons of buttermilk. Cook and stir until it’s boiling, but don’t be alarmed if it looks a tiny bit curdled; that’s just the nature of frosting sometimes.
Once it’s off the heat, beat in 2 1/4 cups of powdered sugar and your choice of 1/2-1 teaspoon of vanilla. Fold in 1/2 cup of black walnuts if you’re feeling nutty.
When the brownies come out of the oven, pour that silky frosting over the top while they’re still warm, and spread it gently—trust me, they’ll be tender and oh-so-delicious. Let them cool a bit, cut into bars, and prepare for the compliments to roll in. You might even want to hide a few for yourself.
Buttermilk Brownies Substitutions & Variations
Ever wondered how you can put your own twist on Buttermilk Brownies?
I love experimenting with substitutions and variations! For a richer flavor, try using dark cocoa powder instead of regular.
If you want a nutty crunch, toss in pecans or almonds instead of walnuts. You can even swap half the butter for applesauce for a lighter option.
Feeling adventurous? Add a pinch of espresso powder to enhance the chocolate taste.
For a fruity twist, mix in some raspberries or chopped cherries.
Don’t be afraid to play around; your unique creations can make these brownies even more delicious!
What to Serve with Buttermilk Brownies
Have you ever thought about what pairs perfectly with Buttermilk Brownies? I love serving them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream; the creamy texture contrasts beautifully with the fudgy brownies.
A drizzle of chocolate sauce adds an extra touch of indulgence. If you’re in the mood for something fruity, fresh berries, like raspberries or strawberries, can brighten the dish and balance the richness.
For a warm beverage, a cup of coffee or a tall glass of cold milk is simply perfect. These accompaniments elevate the experience and make my buttermilk brownies even more enjoyable!
Additional Tips & Notes
While baking Buttermilk Brownies, there are a few tips that can enhance your experience and the final result.
First, I recommend using room temperature ingredients for better mixing; it makes a noticeable difference!
Also, don’t skip the buttermilk—it adds moisture and flavor.
If you want a fudgier texture, reduce the baking time slightly.
I love adding nuts for crunch, but feel free to leave them out if you prefer a smoother brownie.
Finally, let the brownies cool completely before cutting; this helps them maintain their shape.
Enjoy your baking adventure, and don’t forget to savor each delicious bite!