Brownie in a jar is a delightful way to enjoy rich, fudgy brownies without the usual baking mess. This portable dessert layers all the essential ingredients in a jar, making it perfect for gifting, quick baking, or even as a no-bake treat when mixed with wet ingredients.
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup (65g) all-purpose flour
- 1/3 cup (35g) unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
- 3/4 cup (150g) granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup (90g) mini chocolate chips
- 1/4 cup (35g) chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
- 1/4 cup (55g) unsalted butter, melted
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Prepare the dry mix in the jar: In a clean 8 oz (240 ml) mason jar, layer the dry ingredients in the following order: first, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, salt, and baking powder. Add this sifted mixture to the jar.
- Add sugar and chocolate chips: Spoon the granulated sugar on top of the dry flour mixture, then add the mini chocolate chips evenly. If using nuts, layer them on top last to keep them separate and visible.
- Seal and store or gift: Screw on the lid tightly. The jar can be stored at room temperature for up to 2 weeks or given as a gift with instructions.
- To bake the brownies: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a small bowl, whisk together the melted butter, egg, and vanilla extract until combined.
- Combine wet and dry: Empty the jar contents into a medium mixing bowl. Pour the wet mixture over the dry ingredients and stir gently until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
- Bake: Pour the batter into a greased 8×8-inch baking pan or individual ramekins. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted near the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.
- Cool and serve: Let the brownies cool in the pan for at least 15 minutes before slicing and serving. Enjoy warm or at room temperature.
Tips
- Substitutions: Use coconut oil instead of butter for a dairy-free version, or swap mini chocolate chips for chunks for a more rustic texture.
- Storage: Unbaked jar mixes keep best in a cool, dry place for up to two weeks. Once baked, store brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days, or freeze for up to 3 months.
- Common mistakes: Avoid overmixing the batter after adding wet ingredients to prevent dense brownies. Also, measure flour carefully—too much flour leads to dry brownies.
- Layering: Pack ingredients gently but firmly to keep layers distinct, making the jar visually appealing if gifting.
Serving Suggestions
Brownies in a jar can be served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream and a drizzle of caramel or chocolate sauce for an indulgent dessert. Alternatively, crumble them over yogurt or pudding for a textured treat. For a simple snack, enjoy them straight from the pan with a glass of cold milk or coffee.
Variations
Customize your brownie in a jar by adding different mix-ins like dried cherries, toffee bits, or white chocolate chips. For a nut-free version, omit nuts entirely or substitute with sunflower seeds. To turn it into a peanut butter brownie, swirl in 2 tablespoons of peanut butter into the wet batter before baking. For a spicy twist, add 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper or cinnamon to the dry mix.
Storage and Reheating
Store baked brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. For longer storage, wrap brownies tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. To reheat, microwave a brownie piece for 15-20 seconds or warm in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5-7 minutes. Avoid overheating to keep them moist and fudgy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make the brownie in a jar mix ahead of time?
Yes, the dry mix can be prepared and stored in a sealed jar at room temperature for up to two weeks. This makes it a convenient gift or a quick baking solution when you’re ready to make brownies.
What size jar should I use for this recipe?
An 8 oz (240 ml) mason jar works best for layering the dry ingredients without overcrowding. Larger jars can be used if you want to double the recipe.
Can I bake brownies directly in the jar?
It’s not recommended to bake directly in standard mason jars as they may not be tempered for oven use and can crack. Instead, transfer the batter to a greased baking dish or ramekin.
Is there a gluten-free option for this recipe?
Yes, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend designed for baking. Make sure it contains xanthan gum or add 1/4 teaspoon to help with structure.
How do I make the brownies more fudgy or cakey?
For fudgier brownies, use slightly less flour (about 1/3 cup) and increase butter by 1 tablespoon. For cakey brownies, add an extra egg white or increase baking powder to 1/2 teaspoon.
Can I use brown sugar instead of granulated sugar?
Yes, brown sugar adds moisture and a deeper caramel flavor, which complements the chocolate well. You can substitute granulated sugar 1:1 with light brown sugar.
Brownie in a jar is a versatile and charming way to enjoy homemade brownies with minimal prep and maximum convenience. Whether as a gift, a quick dessert, or a fun baking project, this recipe offers rich chocolate flavor and easy customization.
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