Todd's Chocolate Brownies

Rich, fudgy chocolate brownies with walnuts, made with melted dark chocolate and butter. Whisked eggs and sugar give a shiny top; bake until just set, then cool and slice.

Unbalanced

% Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet

Step 1

Heat the oven to 180°C / 160°C fan. Line a 20 cm square tin or ceramic dish with baking parchment.

Step 2

Melt the butter and dark chocolate gently together in a saucepan over low heat. Stir until smooth, then leave to cool slightly.

Step 3

Sift the plain flour, ground almonds, and cocoa powder into a bowl.

Step 4

Whisk the eggs and sugar for 4–6 minutes until pale, thick, and silky.

Step 5

Pour the melted chocolate mixture into the egg mixture. Add the vanilla extract and rum or liqueur, if using. Mix gently to combine.

Step 6

Fold in the dry ingredients until just combined.

Step 7

Fold in the walnuts.

Step 8

Pour the mixture into the prepared tin and level the top.

Step 9

Bake for 25 minutes, then check. The top should look set and slightly papery, and the middle should still have a slight wobble. Bake for up to 35 minutes if needed, but do not overbake.

Step 10

Leave to cool completely in the tin before cutting into squares.