Description
Brownies too sweet for your taste? This recipe and guide show you how to reduce sweetness while keeping them fudgy, rich, and delicious. Use these tips for perfectly balanced brownies every time.
Ingredients
Standard brownie base (eggs, butter, sugar, cocoa, flour, chocolate):
1 cup (125g) all-purpose flour
½–¾ cup (100–150g) sugar (reduce from 1 cup)
¾ cup (65g) unsweetened cocoa powder
½ cup (115g) unsalted butter, melted
2 oz (60g) dark chocolate, chopped (70% cocoa or higher)
3 large eggs
2 tsp pure vanilla extract
½ tsp baking powder
¼ tsp salt
½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
1 tbsp brewed coffee or espresso (optional)
Instructions
Standard method of preparation:
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line an 8×8-inch baking pan.
In a bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.
In another bowl, mix melted butter, sugar, eggs, and vanilla until smooth.
Stir in melted dark chocolate and brewed coffee if using.
Fold in dry ingredients until just combined. Do not overmix.
Add chopped nuts if desired.
Pour batter into prepared pan and spread evenly.
Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out with moist crumbs.
Let cool completely before cutting into squares.
Notes
Reduce sugar gradually (10–20%) to avoid texture loss.
Use dark chocolate (70% cocoa or higher) to cut sweetness.
Add a touch of coffee, lemon juice, or yogurt for balance.
Sprinkle sea salt or add spices (cinnamon, cayenne) for depth.
For extra texture, incorporate walnuts, pecans, or seeds.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American