Ingredients
- All-Purpose Flour: (1/4 cup) The foundation of our brownie, providing structure and a slightly chewy texture.
- Granulated Sugar: (2 tablespoons) Adds sweetness and moisture, creating that classic brownie flavor.
- Unsweetened Cocoa Powder: (2 tablespoons) The star ingredient for rich, decadent chocolate flavor. Opt for Dutch-processed cocoa for an even smoother, less bitter taste.
- Baking Powder: (1/4 teaspoon) A leavening agent that helps the brownie rise slightly and become tender.
- Salt: (a pinch) Enhances the sweetness and balances the chocolate flavor, don’t skip it!
- Milk: (3 tablespoons) Adds moisture and helps to bind the dry ingredients together, creating a smooth batter. Dairy or non-dairy milk works equally well.
- Vegetable Oil: (2 tablespoons) Provides moisture and richness, contributing to a fudgy texture. You can also use melted coconut oil for a slightly different flavor profile.
- Vanilla Extract: (1/4 teaspoon) Enhances the overall flavor and adds a touch of warmth. Pure vanilla extract is best for the most authentic flavor.
- Chocolate Chips (Optional): (2 tablespoons) For extra chocolate indulgence! Semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips are fantastic additions, adding melty pockets of chocolate goodness.
Instructions
- Prepare Your Mug: Choose a microwave-safe mug that is at least 10-12 ounces in size. This will give the brownie room to rise without overflowing. Lightly grease the inside of the mug with butter or cooking spray. This step is optional, but it will make removing the brownie easier and prevent sticking, especially if you want to turn it out onto a plate.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In the prepared mug, add the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, unsweetened cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. Use a fork or small whisk to thoroughly combine these dry ingredients. This is crucial for ensuring that the baking powder and cocoa powder are evenly distributed throughout the batter, preventing clumps and ensuring a consistent texture and rise. Mixing well at this stage also helps to aerate the flour slightly, contributing to a lighter brownie.
- Incorporate Wet Ingredients: Make a well in the center of the dry ingredients. Pour in the milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract. Using the same fork or whisk, gently mix the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Start from the center and gradually work your way outwards, incorporating the dry ingredients little by little. Mix until just combined. Be careful not to overmix the batter, as this can lead to a tougher brownie. A few small lumps are okay, but ensure there are no large pockets of dry flour remaining. The batter should be smooth and pourable, with a rich chocolate color.
- Add Chocolate Chips (Optional): If you are using chocolate chips, gently fold them into the batter using a spoon or fork. Distribute them evenly throughout the batter so that you get melty chocolate in every bite. You can also reserve a few chocolate chips to sprinkle on top of the batter before microwaving for a visually appealing and extra-chocolatey finish.
- Microwave to Perfection: Place the mug in the microwave. Microwave on high power for 60-90 seconds. The exact cooking time will vary depending on the wattage of your microwave and the size and shape of your mug. Start with 60 seconds and check for doneness. The brownie is ready when the edges are set and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with moist crumbs, not wet batter. If the center is still too wet, continue microwaving in 10-second intervals until it reaches the desired consistency. Be careful not to overcook the brownie, as it can become dry and rubbery. Microwaving times can vary greatly, so it’s always best to err on the side of undercooking and then add short bursts of microwave time as needed.
- Cool Slightly and Enjoy: Carefully remove the mug from the microwave (it will be hot!). Let the brownie cool in the mug for a minute or two before serving. This allows it to set slightly and prevents burning your tongue. The aroma of freshly baked chocolate brownie will fill your kitchen! You can enjoy the brownie directly from the mug with a spoon, or carefully invert it onto a plate if desired. Be cautious when inverting, as the brownie will be warm and delicate.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: one normal portion
- Calories: 400
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 7g