Few desserts capture our hearts like a rich fudgy brownie and the Fat Witch Brownie has earned legendary status in New York City. These decadent treats from the iconic Fat Witch Bakery in Chelsea Market are famous for their irresistibly chewy texture and deep chocolate flavor.
We love how simple ingredients come together to create something so indulgent. With this recipe we can bring a taste of the Big Apple right into our own kitchens. Whether we’re baking for a special occasion or just craving a chocolate fix Fat Witch Brownies never disappoint.
Why You’ll Love This Fat Witch Brownie Recipe
When we bake our Fat Witch Brownie Recipe, we unlock layers of chocolate decadence and nostalgia in every batch. Here’s why this recipe stands out and wins over chocolate lovers time after time:
- Unmatched Chewy Texture: Every bite delivers that classic brownie chew straight from Fat Witch Bakery. The fudgy center contrasts beautifully with the delicate, crackly top.
- Intense Chocolate Flavor: We use a generous amount of premium chocolate for a deep, rich taste that satisfies even the most intense cocoa cravings.
- Simple Ingredients: There are no fancy extras required. With basic pantry staples, we whip up bakery-quality brownies at home.
- Versatile for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a family celebration or a cozy night in, Fat Witch Brownies fit any event and wow any crowd.
- Quick & Easy Method: We keep the steps clear and simple. No fuss. No wait. Just delicious brownies within an hour.
- Customizable Add-ins: Want to try walnuts, hazelnuts, or chocolate chips? This recipe welcomes additions so we can make each batch our own.
At-a-Glance: Fat Witch Brownie Benefits
| Quality | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| Chewy Texture | Delivers iconic bakery-style satisfaction |
| Deep Chocolate Flavor | Satisfies strong chocolate cravings |
| Simple Pantry Ingredients | Makes this recipe approachable for all skill levels |
| Quick Prep and Bake | Goes from bowl to oven to table in under an hour |
| Customizable Mix-ins | Encourages creativity with flavors and textures |
As we bring the nostalgia of New York City’s Fat Witch Bakery home, we capture the magic of their best-selling brownies—no reservations or plane tickets required.
With each batch, we smell the rich aroma of cocoa, hear the gentle crunch as we slice through the crackled top, and taste pure chocolate bliss. That’s why our Fat Witch Brownie Recipe remains a top pick for dessert lovers everywhere.
Tools and Equipment Needed
To achieve the famous chewy texture and crackly top that make the Fat Witch Brownie Recipe legendary, we need to use the right tools. Using the correct equipment ensures even baking and preserves the iconic rich chocolate flavor these brownies are known for.
| Tool/Equipment | Purpose |
|---|---|
| 8-inch square baking pan | Bakes brownies to the signature thickness and shape |
| Parchment paper | Prevents sticking and ensures easy removal from the pan |
| Microwave-safe bowl | Efficiently melts butter and chocolate for the batter |
| Medium mixing bowl | Mixes dry and wet ingredients thoroughly |
| Whisk and rubber spatula | Whisk for blending and spatula for folding and scraping |
| Measuring cups and spoons | Ensures accuracy for chewy, fudgy results |
| Wire cooling rack | Cools brownies evenly, avoiding overbaking or sogginess |
| Sharp chef’s knife | Slices brownies cleanly with minimal crumbling |
Key Equipment Highlights:
- We strongly recommend lining our baking pan with parchment paper that overhangs the pan edges for “handles.” This allows us to lift out the brownies effortlessly—preserving that beautiful crackly top.
- Melting chocolate with a microwave-safe bowl saves time. Stirring in 30-second bursts ensures smooth results without scorching.
- Using a rubber spatula means we incorporate all ingredients evenly, ensuring the Fat Witch Brownie is indulgently chocolatey in every bite.
With these essential baking tools, we recreate the magic of Fat Witch Bakery right in our kitchen.
Ingredients
Before we bake our iconic Fat Witch Brownies, let’s gather all the essentials. Using high-quality ingredients guarantees the rich flavor and signature chewy texture we crave from this legendary New York treat.
For the Brownies
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter — plus extra for greasing (room temperature)
- 2 oz unsweetened chocolate, chopped
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs, at room temperature
- 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon fine sea salt
| Ingredient | Amount | Preparation |
|---|---|---|
| Unsalted butter | 1/2 cup (1 stick) | Plus more for greasing |
| Unsweetened chocolate | 2 oz | Chopped |
| Granulated sugar | 1 cup | |
| Eggs | 2 large | Room temperature |
| Vanilla extract | 1/2 teaspoon | Pure |
| All-purpose flour | 1/3 cup | |
| Fine sea salt | 1/4 teaspoon |
For the Topping (Optional)
Add an extra layer of decadence to our Fat Witch Brownie Recipe with these optional toppings:
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans — for crunch
- 1/3 cup mini chocolate chips — for extra chocolatey richness
- Powdered sugar, for dusting
Make-Ahead Tips
Preparing our Fat Witch Brownie Recipe in advance saves time and ensures we always have a decadent treat ready. For best results, we follow these key make-ahead strategies:
Store Brownies for Maximum Freshness
- Cool brownies completely before storing.
- Wrap tightly with plastic wrap or store in an airtight container to keep them chewy and moist.
- Room Temperature: Store for up to 3 days.
- Refrigerate: Extend shelf life to 1 week.
- Freeze: Store for up to 3 months in individual squares.
| Storage Method | Timeframe | Best Container |
|---|---|---|
| Room Temperature | Up to 3 days | Airtight container or wrap |
| Refrigeration | Up to 1 week | Airtight container |
| Freezer | Up to 3 months | Freezer-safe bag or wrap |
How to Freeze Fat Witch Brownies
- Slice brownies and separate with parchment paper.
- Place in a zip-top freezer bag or wrap in foil for freezer storage.
- Label with date and flavor variations if using any add-ins.
“For next-level texture and flavor, let frozen brownies thaw overnight in the refrigerator or for 1 hour at room temperature before serving.”
Baking the Day Before
- Bake brownies as directed.
- Leave uncut in the pan covered tightly overnight for a fresher bite the next day.
- For gatherings, transport uncut brownies and slice just before serving for best presentation.
Reheating & Serving Tips
- For a just-baked taste, warm individual brownies in the microwave for 10–15 seconds.
- Garnish with powdered sugar or a scoop of vanilla ice cream right before serving for a bakery-quality finish.
By following these make-ahead tips, we keep our Fat Witch Brownies fresh, convenient, and irresistibly delicious any time cravings hit.
Directions
Let’s recreate the iconic Fat Witch Brownies at home with step-by-step instructions. Each stage is essential for that chewy center and crackly top that make these brownies legendary.
Prep the Pan and Oven
- Preheat our oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Line an 8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy lifting.
- Lightly spray or butter the parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Melt and Combine Wet Ingredients
- In a microwave-safe bowl, melt 1 stick (1/2 cup) of unsalted butter and 2 ounces of unsweetened chocolate together in 30-second bursts, stirring until smooth.
- Cool for 3 minutes.
- Whisk in 1 cup granulated sugar until glossy.
- Beat in 2 large eggs, one at a time, for a velvety batter.
- Stir in 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract.
Mix the Dry Ingredients
- In a medium bowl, sift together:
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon fine sea salt
- Gently whisk to combine and aerate.
Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
- Gradually fold the dry mixture into the chocolate mixture using a silicone spatula.
- Stir until just combined; do not overmix—this keeps our brownies rich and fudgy.
Pour and Spread Batter
- Scrape the batter into our prepared pan.
- Spread evenly to the corners with an offset spatula for an even bake.
Add Toppings (Optional)
- Sprinkle with:
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans for crunch
- 1/4 cup mini chocolate chips for extra chocolate bursts
- Or dust lightly with powdered sugar after baking, if desired
Bake the Brownies
| Step | Time | Temperature | Method |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bake | 28 to 30 min | 350°F (175°C) | Center rack, until set, with a shiny, crackly top and moist center |
| Test for doneness | Last 2-3 min | Insert a toothpick—should come out with moist crumbs (not wet batter) |
Cool and Slice
- Remove the pan from the oven. Place on a wire rack.
- Cool completely—at least 1 hour—to allow perfect slicing and let the chocolate set.
- Lift brownies using parchment handles. Slice into 16 squares for the classic Fat Witch look.
- For extra decadence, dust lightly with powdered sugar just before serving.
Serving Suggestions
When it comes to enjoying our Fat Witch Brownie Recipe, serving style makes all the difference. Here are our favorite ways to elevate these legendary brownies and impress friends or family.
Classic and Simple
- Slice brownies into neat squares for an authentic Fat Witch Bakery presentation.
- Serve each piece on a dessert plate lightly dusted with powdered sugar.
- Enjoy at room temperature to highlight the chewy texture and rich chocolate flavor.
Decadent Pairings
| Pairing Option | Details |
|---|---|
| Vanilla ice cream | Add a scoop for a classic brownie à la mode. The cold creaminess pairs beautifully with the fudgy center. |
| Fresh berries | Sprinkle raspberries or strawberries to add a tart freshness and vibrant color. |
| Espresso or coffee | Serve with a strong cup for an Italian-inspired treat that complements the deep cocoa notes. |
| Whipped cream | Top with a dollop for an extra touch of indulgence. |
Impressive Entertaining Tips
- Layer brownies with ice cream and hot fudge in glass cups for brownie parfaits.
- Gift wrap individual pieces in wax paper and a ribbon for special occasions or bake sales.
- Incorporate nuts or additional chocolate chips into the batter before baking for added texture and variety.
Creative Dessert Ideas
- Use brownie pieces as the base for a trifle with whipped cream, chocolate pudding, and fresh fruit.
- Crumble leftovers on top of Greek yogurt or ice cream sundaes for crunch and chocolate richness.
- Slice into smaller bite-size pieces for a party platter or dessert table display.
Storage and Freezing Instructions
To preserve the chewy texture and rich chocolate flavor of our Fat Witch Brownies, we recommend careful storage and thoughtful freezing methods.
Storing Fat Witch Brownies
- Allow brownies to cool completely before storing.
- Place brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- To keep brownies extra moist, layer a sheet of parchment or wax paper between each layer and cover with a lid.
- For extended freshness, refrigerate brownies for up to 1 week. Bring to room temperature before serving to restore the signature soft bite.
| Storage Method | Duration | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Room Temperature | Up to 3 days | Store in airtight container; best flavor and texture |
| Refrigeration | Up to 1 week | Use airtight container; let brownies sit out before serving |
“Keep brownies away from heat or sunlight to prevent melting or drying out.”
Freezing Fat Witch Brownies
- Cut fully cooled brownies into squares for easier thawing.
- Wrap each square tightly in plastic wrap then place in a zip-top freezer bag or wrap with foil for extra protection against freezer burn.
- Clearly label the bag with the date for easy tracking.
| Freezing Step | Recommendation |
|---|---|
| Pre-freeze Prep | Cool and cut brownies into squares |
| Wrapping Method | Plastic wrap, then zip-top freezer bag or foil |
| Freezer Storage Duration | Up to 3 months |
| Thawing Process | Unwrap and thaw at room temperature for 1 hour |
Fat Witch Brownies maintain their chewy-fudgy texture even after freezing if wrapped tightly.
Important Tips
- Do not refreeze brownies once thawed, as the texture and flavor may decline.
- Store brownies without powdered sugar or additional toppings for best results. Add these after thawing, if desired.
With these Storage and Freezing Instructions, we keep our Fat Witch Brownies irresistibly fresh for chocolate cravings any time.
Conclusion
There’s something truly magical about bringing a taste of New York City’s beloved Fat Witch Brownies into our own kitchens. With a few simple steps and quality ingredients we can recreate that unforgettable chewy texture and rich chocolate flavor any time the craving strikes.
Whether we’re baking for a special celebration or just treating ourselves these brownies never fail to impress. Let’s grab our aprons and enjoy every decadent bite—because homemade indulgence is always worth it.