Name: Whoppers Brownies
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 4 ounces unsweetened chocolate (coarsely chopped); 1 cup unsalted butter (cut into cubes); 1 cup sugar; 3 large eggs; 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup malted milk powder (I used Carnation); 1 cup Whoppers (chopped); 4 ounces semisweet chocolate (chopped); 1/2 cup heavy cream

Indulging in the rich, fudgy goodness of brownies is a universal delight, but what if we could elevate that experience even further? Enter Whoppers Brownies, a delectable twist on a classic treat that combines the chewy texture of brownies with the delightful crunch of malted milk balls. These brownies are perfect for parties, gatherings, or simply as a sweet escape after a long day. The combination of unsweetened chocolate and malted milk powder creates a depth of flavor that’s truly irresistible. Let’s dive into what makes these Whoppers Brownies so special.

What Sets This Recipe Apart

The magic of Whoppers Brownies lies in their unique flavor profile and texture. The incorporation of malted milk powder delivers a nostalgic taste reminiscent of childhood treats, while the chunks of Whoppers add a delightful crunch to each bite. The blend of unsweetened and semisweet chocolate ensures that the brownies are rich and decadent without being overly sweet. This recipe strikes a perfect balance, making it a standout choice for chocolate lovers and those seeking a new brownie experience.

Your Shopping Guide

Before you start baking, gather the following ingredients:

4 ounces unsweetened chocolate – coarsely chopped, for rich chocolate flavor
1 cup unsalted butter – cut into cubes, for a buttery texture
1 cup sugar – to sweeten the brownies
3 eggs – for structure and richness
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract – for a hint of warmth
1/2 teaspoon salt – to enhance the flavors
1 cup all-purpose flour – the base of the brownies
1/2 cup malted milk powder – I used Carnation, for a malty flavor boost
1 cup Whoppers – chopped, to add crunch
4 ounces semisweet chocolate – chopped, for additional chocolate richness
1/2 cup heavy cream – to create a luscious chocolate ganache topping

Hardware & Gadgets

To whip up these delicious Whoppers Brownies, you’ll need a few essential kitchen tools:

Mixing bowls – for combining ingredients
Whisk – to ensure a smooth batter
Spatula – for folding in the Whoppers
9×13 inch baking pan – to bake the brownies
Double boiler or microwave-safe bowl – for melting chocolate
Cooling rack – to cool the brownies properly

The Method for Whoppers Brownies

Ready to bake? Follow these simple steps to create your Whoppers Brownies:

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.

Step 2: Melt the Chocolate and Butter

In a double boiler or microwave-safe bowl, combine the coarsely chopped unsweetened chocolate and cubed unsalted butter. Heat gently until melted and smooth, stirring occasionally. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.

Step 3: Mix in Sugar and Eggs

In a large mixing bowl, combine the melted chocolate mixture with 1 cup of sugar. Whisk until well combined. Add the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Stir in 1 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract.

Step 4: Add Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together 1/2 teaspoon of salt, 1 cup of all-purpose flour, and 1/2 cup of malted milk powder. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the chocolate mixture, folding gently until just combined.

Step 5: Fold in Whoppers

Chop the Whoppers into smaller pieces, then fold them into the brownie batter. This will ensure you get that delightful malted crunch in every bite.

Step 6: Bake the Brownies

Pour the brownie batter into the prepared baking pan. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. Avoid overbaking to keep them chewy.

Step 7: Make the Ganache

While the brownies are cooling, prepare the ganache. In a small saucepan, heat 1/2 cup of heavy cream until it begins to simmer. Pour it over the 4 ounces of chopped semisweet chocolate in a bowl. Let it sit for a minute, then stir until smooth and glossy.

Step 8: Top and Cool

Once the brownies are completely cool, pour the ganache over the top, spreading it evenly. Allow the ganache to set before slicing the brownies into squares.

Smart Substitutions

If you’re looking to tweak the recipe, consider these substitutions:

Butter – Use coconut oil or a dairy-free butter substitute for a dairy-free version.
Unsweetened chocolate – Substitute with 1/2 cup of semisweet chocolate plus 1 tablespoon of cocoa powder.
Malted milk powder – If unavailable, try using powdered milk mixed with a touch of malt extract.
Heavy cream – Swap with full-fat coconut milk for a dairy-free ganache.

Frequent Missteps to Avoid

Baking can be tricky, so here are some common pitfalls to avoid:

Overmixing the batter can lead to tough brownies. Mix just enough to combine the ingredients.
Using cold eggs can result in uneven mixing. Let your eggs sit at room temperature before adding them.
Not checking for doneness can lead to either undercooked or dry brownies. Use the toothpick test for accuracy.
Skipping the cooling period before adding ganache can lead to a melted mess. Allow the brownies to cool completely.

Store, Freeze & Reheat

To keep your Whoppers Brownies fresh and delicious, follow these storage tips:

Storage: Keep brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Freezing: Wrap brownies tightly in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
Reheating: To enjoy warm brownies, microwave for 10-15 seconds, or until heated through.

Helpful Q&A

Can I use a different type of chocolate?

Absolutely! You can use any combination of chocolate you prefer, but keep in mind that different chocolates will change the flavor and sweetness of your brownies.

What if I don’t have malted milk powder?

If you don’t have malted milk powder, you can substitute it with powdered milk and a splash of malt extract, or leave it out entirely for a chocolate brownie.

Can I add nuts to the brownies?

Yes! Chopped walnuts or pecans would be a delicious addition if you enjoy a bit of crunch in your brownies.

How can I ensure my brownies are fudgy?

To achieve fudgy brownies, avoid overbaking them. They should still appear slightly underbaked in the center when you take them out of the oven.

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Ready, Set, Cook

Now that you have all the tools and tips you need, it’s time to get baking! These Whoppers Brownies are sure to be a hit, whether you’re sharing them with friends or keeping them all to yourself. Enjoy the process, savor the results, and most importantly, indulge in every rich, chocolatey bite!