Ingredients
Brownie Pudding
- 1 cup (2 sticks) Salted Butter (plus extra for buttering the dish)
- 5 large Eggs (or 4 extra-large eggs)
- 2 cups Granulated Sugar
- 3/4 cup Unsweetened Cocoa Powder
- 1/2 cup All-Purpose Flour
- 2 teaspoons Vanilla Bean Paste (or seeds scraped from 1 vanilla bean or 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract)
- 1 Tablespoon Framboise Liqueur (optional – I personally don’t add it)
To Serve
- Vanilla Ice Cream or Whipped Cream
- Powdered Sugar (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the baking dish: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Lightly butter a 2-quart baking dish (9 x 12 x 2 inches) to prevent sticking, then set it aside.
- Melt the butter: Gently melt the salted butter using a stovetop or microwave. Allow it to cool slightly before using to avoid cooking the eggs later in the batter.
- Beat eggs and sugar: In the bowl of a stand mixer or using a handheld mixer, beat the eggs and granulated sugar on medium-high speed until the mixture is thick, pale, and fluffy. This process usually takes about 5 to 10 minutes and is crucial for the dessert’s light texture.
- Add flavorings: Mix in the vanilla bean paste or extract along with the optional framboise liqueur if desired, combining everything well.
- Combine dry ingredients: Add the unsweetened cocoa powder and all-purpose flour to the mixture. Stir gently and just until combined to maintain the fluffiness without overmixing.
- Incorporate melted butter: Pour the slightly cooled melted butter into the batter and mix until everything is evenly combined but do not overbeat.
- Prepare water bath and bake: Pour the batter into the buttered baking dish. Place this dish inside a larger roasting pan with sides tall enough to hold water halfway up the baking dish. Carefully pour hot tap water into the outer pan until it reaches halfway up the sides of the baking dish, being mindful not to splash water into the batter.
- Bake the pudding: Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 50 minutes to 1 hour. The top will develop a thin crackly crust while the inside remains soft and pudding-like. Remove from oven and allow to cool slightly, then let it rest for 10 to 15 minutes to set.
- Serve: Optionally sprinkle with powdered sugar before serving. Scoop warm brownie pudding into bowls and serve with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for a luscious dessert experience.
Notes
- Use salted butter to enhance flavor, but if using unsalted, add a pinch of salt to the batter.
- The water bath ensures even baking and prevents the pudding from drying out.
- Do not overmix once the flour is added to maintain a tender texture.
- The pudding is best served warm but can be reheated gently if needed.
- Optional framboise liqueur adds a subtle fruity note but can be omitted for a classic chocolate flavor.
- Vanilla bean paste or seeds provide a richer vanilla flavor than extract but both work well.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American