Who says we can’t have the best of both worlds? Chocolate brownie bread is the ultimate fusion of two beloved treats—rich, fudgy brownies and soft, moist bread. It’s the kind of recipe that feels indulgent yet comforting, making it perfect for everything from a cozy breakfast to an after-dinner dessert.
This decadent creation combines the deep chocolate flavor we adore in brownies with the satisfying texture of a quick bread. It’s simple to make, but the results are anything but ordinary. Whether we’re entertaining guests or treating ourselves, this recipe is sure to impress and satisfy every chocolate lover.
Chocolate Brownie Bread Recipe
Ingredients
Here’s what we’ll need to make this decadent Chocolate Brownie Bread:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour (sifted)
- ½ cup cocoa powder (unsweetened)
- 1 tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp salt
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup light brown sugar (packed)
- ½ cup unsalted butter (melted and slightly cooled)
- 2 large eggs (room temperature)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ½ cup buttermilk (room temperature)
- ¾ cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- Optional Toppings: chopped nuts, additional chocolate chips, or powdered sugar for garnish
Instructions
1. Preheat and Prepare
- Set the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan, or line it with parchment paper for easier removal.
- Set the pan aside, allowing the oven to preheat thoroughly.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. This ensures the dry ingredients are evenly distributed.
- Set the bowl aside for later use.
3. Combine Wet Ingredients
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar, brown sugar, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract. Continue whisking until the mixture becomes silky and smooth.
4. Incorporate Buttermilk
- Gradually stir the buttermilk into the wet mixture. This will give the batter a moist and tender texture.
5. Blend Wet and Dry Ingredients
- Slowly add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture. Use a spatula or a wooden spoon to fold the batter, being careful not to overmix. Overmixing can lead to a denser loaf.
- Fold in the semi-sweet chocolate chips to distribute them evenly throughout the batter.
6. Pour and Top
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. If desired, sprinkle chopped nuts or extra chocolate chips on top for added texture and flavor.
7. Bake
- Place the pan in the preheated oven. Bake for 50-55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the bread comes out with just a few moist crumbs (not wet batter).
- Use the chart below for reference:
| Oven Temperature | Baking Time | Toothpick Test |
|---|---|---|
| 350°F (175°C) | 50-55 minutes | Comes out with a few moist crumbs, not wet batter |
8. Cool and Enjoy
- Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. This helps the texture set and makes slicing easier.
- Dust the top with optional powdered sugar or garnish as desired.
Notes
- Pro Tip: Use room temperature eggs and buttermilk to ensure a smooth batter and even baking.
- For a deeper chocolate flavor, substitute ¼ cup of cocoa powder with Dutch-processed cocoa powder.
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for extended freshness.
Ingredients
To craft this indulgent Chocolate Brownie Bread, we’ll need a combination of rich, flavorful, and high-quality ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role in achieving the perfect blend of fudgy brownie and soft bread texture. Let’s gather our essentials:
Dry Ingredients:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour (sifted for a smooth batter)
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder (prefer Dutch-process for deeper flavor)
- 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1/4 tsp baking soda
- 1/4 tsp salt
Wet Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (melted and slightly cooled)
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar (lightly packed for a hint of caramel richness)
- 2 large eggs (room temperature for better emulsification)
- 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
Add-ins:
- 3/4 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips (for melty pockets of chocolate)
- 1/4 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional for crunch)
Optional Toppings:
- Extra chocolate chips or chunks
- Sprinkling of sea salt for contrast
Tools And Equipment
To achieve the perfect chocolate brownie bread, having the right tools and equipment makes the process smoother and ensures a flawless bake. Below is the list of items you’ll need to prepare this decadent treat:
Essential Tools
- Mixing bowls: One large for wet ingredients and one medium for the dry mix.
- Measuring cups and spoons: For precise measurements of both wet and dry ingredients.
- Whisk: To evenly combine dry ingredients and keep the texture light.
- Rubber spatula: For folding the wet and dry mixtures together without overmixing.
- Electric mixer (optional): Speeds up creaming butter and sugar if you prefer not to mix manually.
- 9×5-inch loaf pan: The standard size for baking this brownie bread evenly.
- Parchment paper: Guarantees an easy release once baked.
- Wire rack: Ensures thorough cooling to lock in the desired texture.
Bonus Tools for Enhanced Results
- Sifter or fine mesh strainer: For aerating dry ingredients like cocoa powder and flour, resulting in a softer crumb.
- Scraper/dough scraper: Helps transfer batter into the loaf pan cleanly.
- Kitchen scale: Perfect for precise measurements, especially for cocoa powder and flour.
Tools & Their Usefulness Table
| Tool | Purpose | Optional/Essential |
|---|---|---|
| Mixing bowls | Hold and combine ingredients | Essential |
| Measuring cups/spoons | Ensures accurate ingredient proportions | Essential |
| Whisk | Blends dry items and adds air to mixture | Essential |
| Electric mixer | Simplifies batter preparation | Optional |
| Rubber spatula | Prevents overmixing when folding | Essential |
| Loaf pan (9×5-inch) | Shapes and bakes the bread evenly | Essential |
| Parchment paper | Non-stick liner for easy bread removal | Essential |
| Wire rack | Promotes even cooling and maintains texture | Essential |
| Sifter | Aerates dry ingredients for optimal consistency | Optional |
| Kitchen scale | Provides precision for key ingredient measurements | Optional |
| Scraper | Transfers batter without waste | Optional |
By preparing these reliable tools in advance, we can focus entirely on crafting the rich, fudgy layers that define chocolate brownie bread. Organizing helps us ensure we miss no steps while enhancing the overall experience of baking this irresistible treat. Always choose high-quality equipment, as a sturdy loaf pan and accurate measuring tools significantly affect results.
Directions
This chocolate brownie bread recipe comes together effortlessly with just a few steps. Follow these detailed instructions to craft the perfect balance of fudgy brownie richness and soft bread texture.
Prep
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Position the oven rack in the middle for even baking.
- Gather all the tools and ingredients listed earlier to ensure a smooth process.
- Bring the eggs, butter, and any refrigerated ingredients to room temperature for better mixing and texture.
Mix The Ingredients
- Combine the dry ingredients:
- In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour, 1/2 cup cocoa powder, 1 tsp baking powder, 1/2 tsp baking soda, and 1/4 tsp salt. Ensure no lumps remain by sifting the cocoa powder if needed.
- Cream the wet ingredients:
- In a large mixing bowl, use a whisk or an electric mixer to beat 1/2 cup melted butter, 1/2 cup granulated sugar, and 1/2 cup brown sugar until smooth and fully combined.
- Add 2 large eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition, followed by 1 tsp vanilla extract.
- Combine wet and dry ingredients:
- Gradually fold in the dry mixture to the wet mixture using a rubber spatula. Mix until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep your bread tender.
- Incorporate add-ins:
- Gently fold in 1/2 cup chocolate chips and 1/4 cup chopped nuts (optional), ensuring an even distribution throughout the batter.
Prepare The Baking Pan
- Line a 9×5-inch loaf pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal.
- Lightly grease the pan and parchment paper with non-stick spray or butter to prevent sticking.
- Pour the prepared batter into the pan and spread evenly using a spatula, ensuring the top is smooth.
Bake The Brownie Bread
- Place the loaf pan into the preheated oven.
- Bake for 55-65 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs (not wet batter).
| Temperature | Baking Time | Result |
|---|---|---|
| 350°F (175°C) | 55-65 minutes | Fudgy, soft brownie bread |
- Once baked, remove the loaf pan from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack for 15 minutes.
- Using the parchment overhang, lift the bread out of the pan and leave it on the wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
For an extra indulgent touch, sprinkle additional chocolate chips or sea salt on top before baking.
Cooling And Serving
Once we’ve baked our chocolate brownie bread to perfection, the process isn’t over yet—it’s crucial to focus on proper cooling to lock in that rich, fudgy texture and make serving effortless. Follow these steps for the best results:
Cooling the Bread
- Remove from the Oven
Carefully remove the bread from the oven and set it on a wire rack while still in the loaf pan.
- Initial Cooling in the Pan
Let the bread cool for about 10-15 minutes in the loaf pan. This step helps the bread firm up slightly, making it easier to handle without breaking.
- Transfer to a Wire Rack
Line the wire rack with parchment paper (optional) to prevent sticking. Gently run a knife around the edges of the bread, then tilt and carefully lift or invert it out of the pan. Place the bread directly onto the rack to cool completely.
- Cool Completely Before Slicing
It’s essential to let the bread cool entirely—about 1-2 hours at room temperature. Slicing too soon may result in crumbling; the texture fully sets as it cools.
Pro Tip: If you’re short on time, you can speed up cooling by placing the wire rack in a cool, drafty area. However, avoid refrigerating immediately, as this may dry out the bread.
Serving Suggestions
This chocolate brownie bread is versatile and can be served in several delightful ways:
- Classic Slices: Use a serrated knife to cut thick or thin slices, depending on preference.
- Warm It Up: Toast a slice lightly in the oven or microwave for 10-15 seconds to bring out the gooey chocolate flavors.
- With Toppings: Add a dollop of whipped cream, a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or a drizzle of melted chocolate for an indulgent dessert presentation.
Serving Ideas at-a-Glance
| Serving Style | Pairing Option | Occasion |
|---|---|---|
| With Whipped Cream | Fresh strawberries or raspberries | Dessert or tea party |
| Warmed With Ice Cream | Vanilla ice cream and caramel drizzle | Post-dinner indulgence |
| Simple and Classic | Pair with coffee or a glass of milk | Breakfast, brunch, or mid-day snack |
“This bread is a showstopper, whether served as a casual snack or elevated in presentation for special occasions.”
For entertaining, we recommend topping slices with extra chocolate shavings or a sprinkle of powdered sugar for a visually appealing touch. The mix of its brownie-like decadence and bread-like texture will leave guests raving.
Make-Ahead Instructions
Preparing chocolate brownie bread ahead of time is a fantastic way to enjoy its rich, fudgy flavors without the rush. With a few simple steps, we can keep our bread fresh and ready for any occasion, ensuring maximum indulgence.
Storing the Baked Bread
After baking, it is essential to allow the bread to cool completely before storing. Follow these steps for optimal freshness:
- Wrap the Bread: Use plastic wrap or aluminum foil to tightly wrap the cooled loaf, ensuring no air can seep in. Alternatively, place it in an airtight container.
- Refrigerate or Freeze:
- Refrigeration: Store the bread in the fridge for up to 5 days. Let it come to room temperature or reheat slightly before serving for the best texture.
- Freezing: For longer storage, freeze the bread. Wrap it in plastic wrap, then add a layer of foil to prevent freezer burn. Label and store for up to 3 months.
Freezing the Batter
If we prefer freshly baked bread on demand, freezing the prepared batter is an excellent option:
- Prepare the Batter: Follow the recipe through the mixing steps.
- Portion and Store: Pour the batter into a disposable loaf pan or a freezer-safe container. Cover tightly with plastic wrap and foil.
- Freeze: Store the batter in the freezer for up to 2 months.
When ready to bake, thaw the batter in the fridge overnight. Bake as directed, adding 5-10 extra minutes to the baking time if needed.
Pre-Mixing Dry Ingredients
For an even quicker start, we can pre-mix the dry ingredients in advance:
- In a large, airtight container, combine all the dry ingredients (flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt).
- Label the container with the pre-mixed date. This mixture can be stored at room temperature for up to 1 month.
When we are ready to bake, simply add the wet ingredients and follow the recipe’s remaining steps.
Reheating Tips
Warmed chocolate brownie bread amplifies its decadent flavors. For the best results:
| Method | Instructions |
|---|---|
| Microwave | Heat individual slices for 10-15 seconds. |
| Oven | Warm the whole loaf at 300°F for 10-15 min. |
Reheating gently preserves the bread’s soft, fudgy texture and intensifies the chocolate aroma. Serve warm with optional toppings like a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of ice cream for ultimate indulgence.
By planning ahead with these make-ahead tips, we ensure every bite of this heavenly treat is prepared to perfection.
Conclusion
Chocolate brownie bread is more than just a recipe; it’s an experience that brings together the best of brownies and bread in one irresistible treat. Whether you’re baking it for a special occasion or simply to satisfy a chocolate craving, it’s sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.
With its rich flavor, fudgy texture, and endless customization options, this recipe offers something for everyone. By following the steps and tips we’ve shared, you’ll create a dessert that’s as impressive as it is delicious. So grab your ingredients, preheat your oven, and let’s bake something unforgettable!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is chocolate brownie bread?
Chocolate brownie bread is a delightful fusion of rich, fudgy brownies and soft, moist bread. It combines the indulgent flavor of classic brownies with a satisfying texture, making it perfect for any occasion, whether as breakfast, dessert, or a midday treat.
What ingredients do I need to make chocolate brownie bread?
You’ll need all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, salt, melted butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, and optional add-ins like chocolate chips or nuts. High-quality ingredients are key for the best results.
What tools are required for baking chocolate brownie bread?
You’ll need mixing bowls, measuring cups and spoons, a whisk, a rubber spatula, a 9×5-inch loaf pan, parchment paper, and a wire rack. Optional tools include an electric mixer, a sifter, and a kitchen scale for accuracy.
How do I prepare chocolate brownie bread?
Preheat your oven, prepare your pan with parchment paper, and combine the dry and wet ingredients in separate bowls before mixing them together. Add chocolate chips or other toppings as desired, and bake at the recommended temperature and time.
How should I store chocolate brownie bread?
Store the bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For extended storage, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to three months; thaw before serving.
Can I make the batter ahead of time?
Yes, you can freeze the batter in an airtight container or freeze-proof bag for up to a month. Thaw it in the refrigerator, bring it to room temperature, and bake as directed when ready.
How do I get the perfect fudgy texture?
Use room-temperature ingredients, avoid overmixing the batter, and don’t overbake. Checking with a toothpick (which should come out with moist crumbs) ensures the ideal fudgy texture.
Can I customize chocolate brownie bread?
Absolutely! Add extra ingredients like nuts, chocolate chunks, dried fruits, or even a sprinkle of sea salt on top. These additions personalize the bread and enhance its flavor.
What should I serve with chocolate brownie bread?
Chocolate brownie bread pairs well with whipped cream, vanilla ice cream, coffee, or a glass of milk. It’s versatile enough to complement both sweet and savory additions.
Are there reheating tips for chocolate brownie bread?
To reheat, microwave a slice for 10-15 seconds or warm it in the oven at 300°F for a few minutes. This will revive its soft, fudgy texture and intensify the chocolatey flavor.