Chocolate Fudge Walnut Brownies

Name: Chocolate Fudge Walnut Brownies
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 16 brownies
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter; 2 cups granulated sugar; 4 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1 cup cocoa powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 cup chopped walnuts; 1 teaspoon espresso powder (optional)

Highlighted under: Cakes & Confections

I absolutely love making these Chocolate Fudge Walnut Brownies! The combination of rich chocolate and crunchy walnuts creates a decadent treat that’s perfect for any occasion. The texture is perfectly fudgy, and the walnuts add just the right amount of crunch. I always find that adding a touch of espresso powder enhances the chocolate flavor even more. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or just indulging yourself, these brownies will certainly impress and satisfy your sweet tooth.

Created by

Jocelyn Parker

Last updated on 2026-02-16T00:37:36.124Z

When I first tried making these brownies, I was searching for something that was both indulgent and easy to prepare. I found that by mixing melted chocolate with butter, I could achieve a fudgy texture that’s hard to resist. The addition of walnuts not only contrasts beautifully with the chocolate but also adds nutritional value, making me feel a little less guilty about indulging!

I always bake them until just set, which guarantees that perfect chewy center. A little sprinkle of sea salt on top before baking boosts the overall flavor and makes them extra special. I can hardly wait to share these with friends!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Rich chocolate flavor paired with crunchy walnuts
Fudgy texture that satisfies even the deepest chocolate cravings
Simple ingredients make this a quick and enjoyable baking experience

The Role of Ingredients

Each ingredient in these Chocolate Fudge Walnut Brownies plays a crucial role in creating the perfect balance of flavors and textures. For instance, using unsalted butter allows you to control the saltiness, enhancing the rich chocolate without overpowering it. Granulated sugar not only sweetens but also contributes to the brownies' chewy texture, while the addition of eggs provides structure and helps create that fudgy consistency we all crave.

Cocoa powder is essential for the deep chocolate flavor and contributes to the overall color of the brownies. I recommend using high-quality cocoa powder for the best results, as it can significantly influence the taste of the final product. Additionally, the walnuts not only add crunch but also offer a complementary flavor that elevates each bite, making every piece a rich, satisfying indulgence.

Baking Tips for Success

When preparing to bake your brownies, be sure to preheat the oven thoroughly to 350°F (175°C). This helps the brownies rise correctly and develop that perfect crust. Greasing the baking pan is crucial; I prefer using a light coating of butter or a non-stick spray to ensure easy release, allowing for cleanly cut squares once baked. If the brownies stick to the pan, this can affect the texture and presentation of the dessert.

Another tip to enhance your baking experience is to avoid overmixing the batter. Overmixing can lead to tough brownies, losing that desirable fudgy texture. Mix until the ingredients are just combined, and then gently fold in the walnuts. Keeping an eye on baking time is important—start checking for doneness around the 20-minute mark. Look for a few moist crumbs on the toothpick to ensure they are perfectly baked.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make the brownies:

Brownies

1 cup unsalted butter
2 cups granulated sugar
4 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 cup cocoa powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup chopped walnuts
1 teaspoon espresso powder (optional)

Make sure to have everything measured out before you start for a smoother baking experience.

Instructions

Follow these easy steps to bake your brownies:

Preheat Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13 inch baking pan.

Melt Butter

In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Once melted, remove from heat and stir in the sugar, eggs, and vanilla until well combined.

Mix Dry Ingredients

In a bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, salt, and espresso powder if using.

Combine Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, mixing until just combined. Fold in the walnuts.

Bake

Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread evenly. Bake for 25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out with a few moist crumbs.

Cool and Serve

Allow the brownies to cool in the pan before cutting into squares. Enjoy your delicious fudgy brownies!

These brownies are best enjoyed slightly warm, but they also store well, making them great for later.

Pro Tips

For an extra indulgent treat, serve these brownies with vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of chocolate sauce.

Making Ahead and Storing

These brownies can be made ahead of time, which makes them perfect for gatherings or last-minute treats. After baking, allow them to cool completely in the pan before transferring them to an airtight container. If stored properly, they can last at room temperature for up to a week. For longer preservation, consider refrigerating them; they'll keep well for about two weeks.

If you're looking to freeze the brownies, you can wrap cooled squares in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They will maintain their quality for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy them, defrost them overnight in the refrigerator or let them sit at room temperature for about an hour before serving.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your Chocolate Fudge Walnut Brownies even further, consider serving them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream—this contrast of temperatures and textures makes for a delightful dessert experience. A drizzle of chocolate sauce or caramel on top can add a touch of elegance and enhance the flavors, making them suitable for special occasions.

For those who enjoy a bit of flair, consider adding a sprinkle of sea salt over the brownies right after they come out of the oven. The addition of salt enhances the chocolate flavor and creates a balance between sweet and savory, making every bite more satisfying. These small adjustments can transform a straightforward brownie recipe into a gourmet treat.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use dark chocolate instead of cocoa powder?

Yes, you can substitute dark chocolate for cocoa powder, but you'll need to adjust the amount of butter and sugar accordingly.

→ What can I use instead of walnuts?

You can replace walnuts with pecans, almonds, or even omit nuts entirely if preferred.

→ How should I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for longer freshness.

→ Can I freeze these brownies?

Yes, these brownies freeze beautifully. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil.