Brownie bread is a delicious fusion of two beloved desserts: the dense, fudgy richness of brownies and the soft, moist texture of quick bread. This unique treat is perfect for those who love the deep, chocolaty flavor of brownies but crave the convenience and versatility of a loaf. Whether served as a breakfast indulgence, an afternoon snack, or a dessert, brownie bread offers a delightful twist that will satisfy any sweet tooth.
The concept of combining brownies and bread might seem unconventional, but it results in a wonderfully moist and flavorful treat that’s easy to slice and serve. Unlike traditional brownies, which are often cut into squares, brownie bread is baked in a loaf pan, allowing you to cut it into slices like a cake. This makes it an ideal choice for brunches, picnics, or any time you need a portable dessert.
The origins of brownie bread are not well-documented, but it likely emerged as home bakers experimented with different ways to enjoy their favorite treats. By incorporating elements of both brownies and quick bread, this recipe captures the best of both worlds, offering a rich, chocolatey flavor in a convenient loaf form.
This recipe for brownie bread is straightforward and quick to prepare, requiring only a few basic ingredients and minimal preparation time. Below, you’ll find a detailed recipe for brownie bread, along with several variations and substitutions to help you customize the dish to your liking.
Brownie Bread Recipe
Ingredients
1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup cocoa powder
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
1 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 cup milk or buttermilk
1 cup chocolate chips (optional)
Instructions
Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper.
Combine Dry Ingredients:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.
Mix Wet Ingredients:
In a large bowl, combine the melted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar. Beat until well combined. Add the eggs and vanilla extract, mixing until smooth.
Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the milk. Mix until just combined. Fold in the chocolate chips if using.
Bake:
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top. Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Cool:
Allow the bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
Variations
Nutty Brownie Bread:
Add 1 cup of chopped nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, to the batter for a crunchy texture.
Double Chocolate Brownie Bread:
Use dark chocolate chips or chunks instead of regular chocolate chips for a more intense chocolate flavor.
Spicy Brownie Bread:
Add 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon and a pinch of cayenne pepper to the dry ingredients for a subtle spicy kick.
Fruit-Infused Brownie Bread:
Fold in 1 cup of dried fruits, such as cherries or cranberries, to the batter for a fruity twist.
Substitutions
Gluten-Free Option:
Replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make the recipe suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
Dairy-Free Brownie Bread:
Substitute the butter with coconut oil or a dairy-free margarine and use almond milk or another plant-based milk.
Lower Sugar Version:
Reduce the amount of granulated sugar and replace with a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup. Adjust the wet ingredients accordingly.
Vegan Brownie Bread:
Replace the eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water per egg) and use a plant-based milk and butter alternative.
Conclusion
Brownie bread is a delectable and versatile dessert that combines the best qualities of brownies and quick bread. Its rich, fudgy flavor and soft, moist texture make it a delightful treat for any occasion. This recipe is easy to follow and can be customized with various ingredients to suit your tastes and dietary needs. Whether you enjoy it as a breakfast indulgence, a snack, or a dessert, brownie bread is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection. Experiment with different variations and substitutions to create your perfect version of this delightful treat, and enjoy the delicious fusion of brownies and bread in every bite.
