Mary Berry’s Walnut and Chocolate Brownies are a rich, indulgent dessert that perfectly blends the deep, comforting flavors of chocolate with the crunchy, earthy texture of toasted walnuts. This classic recipe from the British baking legend Mary Berry is known for its perfectly balanced combination of fudgy, gooey, and slightly crumbly texture. The dense, melt-in-your-mouth chocolate base is complemented by the nuts, which add a slight bitterness to contrast the sweetness, creating a mouthwatering harmony of flavors and textures.
Mary Berry, often hailed as the queen of British baking, has a knack for creating foolproof, crowd-pleasing recipes, and her walnut and chocolate brownies are no exception. They are ideal for any occasion, from casual afternoon teas to special celebrations. The recipe’s simplicity ensures that even novice bakers can achieve delicious results, while the flavor and texture will leave everyone asking for the recipe.
Mary Berry’s Walnut And Chocolate Brownies Recipe
Ingredients Needed
To make Mary Berry’s Walnut and Chocolate Brownies, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- Butter (200g): The rich, creamy base that gives the brownies their melt-in-your-mouth consistency.
- Dark Chocolate (200g): You’ll need high-quality dark chocolate for the perfect balance of rich cocoa flavor. This will melt into the butter to create the fudgy base.
- Golden Caster Sugar (275g): Golden caster sugar gives a deeper, more caramel-like sweetness compared to regular caster sugar, and it helps create the perfect chewy texture.
- Eggs (4 large): Eggs are crucial for binding the ingredients together and giving the brownies structure. The yolks also contribute to the rich, smooth texture.
- Self-Raising Flour (85g): This is used to give a slight lift to the brownies while maintaining their dense and moist texture. Using self-raising flour ensures that they don’t become too heavy.
- Walnuts (100g): Chopped walnuts add a nutty crunch and a contrasting flavor to the rich chocolate, enhancing the overall depth of the brownies. You can toast the walnuts for an added depth of flavor.
- Vanilla Extract (1 tsp): A splash of vanilla extract adds an aromatic, slightly floral sweetness that complements the chocolate.
- Salt (a pinch): A pinch of salt helps balance the sweetness and intensifies the chocolate flavor.
With these ingredients, you are guaranteed a batch of brownies that will be both decadent and satisfying.
Equipment Needed
Before you begin baking, gather the following equipment:
- Baking Tray (20cm x 20cm or 8-inch square): A square baking tray is ideal for making brownies. The 20cm x 20cm size ensures that the brownies bake evenly and maintain their thickness.
- Mixing Bowls: You’ll need two large bowls-one for melting the butter and chocolate, and the other for mixing the dry ingredients and the eggs.
- Whisk and Wooden Spoon: A whisk is essential for beating the eggs and sugar together, ensuring a smooth mixture. A wooden spoon or spatula will help combine the melted chocolate with the dry ingredients.
- Measuring Cups and Scales: Accurate measurements are crucial in baking. Use scales to weigh the ingredients, ensuring the right balance for the best brownies.
- Parchment Paper or Baking Liner: Lining your baking tray with parchment paper makes it much easier to remove the brownies once they are baked, ensuring they don’t stick.
- Knife or Chopping Board: You’ll need these to chop the walnuts into smaller pieces before mixing them into the batter.
These tools will ensure that your baking process is as smooth and enjoyable as possible.
Instructions To Make Mary Berry’s Walnut And Chocolate Brownies
Follow these detailed steps to create a batch of Mary Berry’s mouthwatering walnut and chocolate brownies:
- Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 180°C (160°C fan), or 350°F (or gas mark 4). This ensures that the oven is at the perfect temperature by the time your batter is ready.
- Prepare the Baking Tray: Line your 20cm x 20cm square baking tray with parchment paper. This step is essential for easy removal of the brownies after they are baked.
- Melt Butter and Chocolate: In a heatproof bowl, break up the dark chocolate into small pieces and add the butter. Place this bowl over a pan of gently simmering water (a technique called bain-marie), stirring occasionally until the mixture is completely melted and smooth. If you prefer, you can also melt them together in the microwave in short bursts, stirring each time to avoid burning.
- Beat Sugar and Eggs: In a separate large bowl, beat the eggs and sugar together with a whisk until they are light and fluffy. This step is crucial as it helps to create a slightly aerated batter, giving the brownies a lighter texture while still maintaining their richness.
- Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Once the butter and chocolate mixture has melted and cooled slightly, pour it into the egg and sugar mixture. Add the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt. Gently fold the mixture together using a spatula.
- Sift in the Flour: Sift the self-raising flour into the batter, then carefully fold it in until fully incorporated. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to tough brownies.
- Add the Walnuts: Gently fold in the chopped walnuts, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.
- Bake the Brownies: Pour the brownie mixture into your prepared baking tray, spreading it out evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the brownies are firm on the outside but slightly soft and gooey on the inside. You can check for doneness by inserting a skewer or toothpick-it should come out with a few moist crumbs attached, not completely clean.
- Cool and Slice: Once baked, allow the brownies to cool in the tray for about 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, cut into generous squares or rectangles to serve.
Tips And Tricks
- Use Good Quality Chocolate: The quality of the chocolate plays a significant role in the flavor of the brownies. Opt for a rich dark chocolate with at least 70% cocoa for the best results. This will enhance the overall depth of flavor and give you that perfect bittersweet chocolate taste.
- Toast the Walnuts: Toasting the walnuts in a dry pan over medium heat for a few minutes before adding them to the batter enhances their flavor and gives the brownies an extra layer of richness. Just be careful not to burn them!
- Don’t Overbake: Brownies are best when they are still fudgy in the center. If you overbake them, they can become dry and crumbly. Check them around the 25-minute mark and remember, they’ll continue to set as they cool.
- Experiment with Other Nuts: While walnuts are the traditional choice, feel free to experiment with other nuts like pecans or hazelnuts. You can even add a swirl of caramel for a new twist.
- Add Extra Chocolate: For an even more indulgent treat, you can fold in some chocolate chips or chunks to the batter before baking.
- Serve with Ice Cream or Cream: These brownies are delicious on their own, but pairing them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream takes them to the next level.
Mary Berry’s Walnut and Chocolate Brownies are a classic British dessert that epitomizes comfort food at its finest. With their rich chocolatey goodness, subtle bitterness from the walnuts, and a perfectly balanced fudgy texture, these brownies are perfect for any occasion-whether it’s a casual afternoon tea or a festive gathering. The recipe is simple yet rewarding, ensuring that even novice bakers can create something truly special.
With a few tips and tricks under your belt, you can elevate the recipe to new heights. Whether you stick with the traditional walnuts or experiment with other nuts and ingredients, these brownies are bound to become a favorite in your baking repertoire.
Easy Recipe Variations For Mary Berry’s Walnut And Chocolate Brownies
Mary Berry’s classic walnut and chocolate brownies are already a perfect treat, combining the deep richness of chocolate with the satisfying crunch of walnuts. However, you can easily add a personal twist by experimenting with a variety of easy recipe variations. Let’s explore a few ideas:
1. Add Extra Flavor With Spices
Adding spices to your brownies can elevate their flavor profile. A dash of cinnamon or nutmeg will give your brownies a warm, cozy note, especially if you’re making them during the fall or winter months. You can also experiment with a pinch of chili powder or espresso powder to introduce an unexpected, yet delightful, depth of flavor that enhances the chocolate. If you’re a fan of orange chocolate, try adding the zest of one orange or a few drops of orange extract for a refreshing twist.
2. Swap Walnuts For Other Nuts
Walnuts provide a satisfying crunch, but if you prefer a different texture or flavor, consider swapping them for other types of nuts. Pecans are a great alternative, offering a buttery texture that complements the richness of the chocolate. Alternatively, hazelnuts add a unique, nutty sweetness, while almonds provide a more subtle crunch. For a fun variation, you can even use macadamia nuts for an extra indulgent treat.
3. Infuse With Fruit
Fruit can bring a fresh and juicy contrast to the richness of the brownies. Chopped cherries, raspberries, or blueberries can add bursts of tartness that balance the sweetness of the brownies. For a more tropical twist, you can fold in dried pineapple or mango pieces. Fresh fruit will also work, but make sure to drain excess moisture to avoid sogginess in your brownies.
4. Try Different Types Of Chocolate
While dark chocolate is a staple in Mary Berry’s original recipe, experimenting with other varieties can create distinct results. For instance, using milk chocolate instead of dark will yield a sweeter, creamier brownie. Alternatively, white chocolate chunks or ruby chocolate can add unique flavor elements and a beautiful visual contrast.
5. Make It Gluten-Free
If you need a gluten-free version, simply swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend. Many gluten-free flours come pre-mixed with starches and gums that help mimic the texture of wheat flour, ensuring your brownies are just as fudgy and delicious as the original. You can also consider using almond flour or coconut flour for a more nutty and slightly different texture.
6. Create A Salted Caramel Brownie
Add a layer of salted caramel sauce between the brownie batter before baking, or drizzle it on top once the brownies are cooled. The combination of sweet and salty creates a decadent flavor explosion that perfectly complements the chocolate and walnut base. The caramel also adds an extra layer of moisture, enhancing the chewiness of the brownies.
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftover Mary Berry’s walnut and chocolate brownies (which is always a possibility when you make them in large batches!), it’s important to store them properly to maintain their freshness and texture. Here’s how to keep them at their best:
1. Room Temperature Storage
For short-term storage (up to about 3 days), simply wrap the brownies in cling film or place them in an airtight container at room temperature. This will help keep them moist while preventing them from drying out. It’s best to store them in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight or heat sources. If you’re planning to serve them within a couple of days, this is the easiest method.
2. Refrigerating Brownies
If you want to extend their shelf life, refrigerating brownies is a great option. Once completely cooled, wrap the brownies in plastic wrap and place them in an airtight container. They should last for about a week when kept in the fridge. However, keep in mind that the cold temperature might slightly alter their texture, making them a bit firmer. You can always microwave them for a few seconds to bring back their original fudgy consistency.
3. Freezing Brownies
For long-term storage, freezing your brownies is an excellent way to preserve their flavor and texture. After cooling, cut the brownies into individual squares. Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. You can freeze them for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat them, simply let them thaw at room temperature, or for an extra indulgent experience, microwave them for a few seconds to soften them up.
4. Defrosting Tips
To ensure your brownies don’t dry out when defrosting, avoid microwaving them for too long. Thawing them at room temperature is usually the best method for keeping them moist. However, if you prefer a freshly-baked experience, you can always pop them in the oven for a few minutes to warm them up, which will bring back that freshly-made texture.
What To Eat With Mary Berry’s Walnut And Chocolate Brownies?
Mary Berry’s walnut and chocolate brownies are rich, indulgent, and satisfying on their own, but they also pair wonderfully with a variety of accompaniments. Whether you’re serving them as part of a dessert platter or simply enjoying them with your afternoon tea, here are some ideas on what to serve alongside:
1. Vanilla Ice Cream
The combination of warm brownies with cool, creamy vanilla ice cream is a timeless pairing. The simplicity of vanilla ice cream allows the richness of the brownies to shine while adding a smooth contrast. For added texture and flavor, you could even sprinkle some crushed toffee or chocolate chips on top of the ice cream.
2. Whipped Cream Or Clotted Cream
A dollop of freshly whipped cream or thick clotted cream can be the perfect complement to the dense and fudgy texture of the brownies. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can infuse your whipped cream with a little bit of coffee, vanilla, or cinnamon for extra flavor.
3. Berries And Fresh Fruit
The tartness of fresh berries like strawberries, raspberries, or blackberries balances the rich sweetness of the brownies. A fresh fruit salad with a mix of seasonal fruits can also be a refreshing side to cut through the heaviness of the chocolate and nuts. The juicy sweetness of the berries adds an extra layer of complexity to the overall dessert experience.
4. Coffee Or Hot Chocolate
Pairing your brownies with a rich espresso, a cup of coffee, or a cozy hot chocolate can elevate the whole dessert experience. The bitterness of coffee or the creaminess of hot chocolate complements the sweetness of the brownies, creating a balanced, comforting treat.
5. Nut Butters
For an added layer of richness, consider spreading a little peanut butter or almond butter on top of the brownies. The creamy, salty goodness of nut butter pairs perfectly with the chocolate and walnuts, providing a satisfying contrast in both flavor and texture.
Conclusion
Mary Berry’s walnut and chocolate brownies are a quintessential treat, blending the richness of dark chocolate with the satisfying crunch of walnuts in a perfectly moist, fudgy base. They are incredibly versatile, easily adaptable to suit different tastes or dietary preferences. Whether you’re adding a hint of spice, swapping out nuts, or infusing fruity flavors, these brownies are a delightful canvas for creativity.
Storing leftovers is easy with proper care-whether you choose to keep them at room temperature, refrigerate, or freeze, you’ll ensure that each bite remains as decadent as the first. And when it comes to pairing, there’s no shortage of options: from creamy ice cream and whipped cream to fresh fruit and coffee, there’s something to elevate every bite.
So, whether you’re making a batch for a special occasion, enjoying them with a warm drink, or simply indulging in a sweet snack, Mary Berry’s walnut and chocolate brownies are sure to delight. Don’t be afraid to play around with variations, and remember, the perfect brownie is the one that’s most enjoyable for you and your loved ones!
FAQs
What Makes Mary Berry’s Walnut And Chocolate Brownies Different From Other Brownie Recipes?
Mary Berry’s walnut and chocolate brownies stand out due to their perfect balance of rich chocolate flavor and the added crunch of walnuts. Her recipe uses high-quality dark chocolate to enhance the taste, while the walnuts add texture and a nutty contrast. Additionally, Mary Berry’s careful method of mixing ensures a dense, fudgy center with a slightly crisp top, making these brownies a delightful treat for any occasion.
Can I Substitute The Walnuts In Mary Berry’s Brownie Recipe With Other Nuts Or Ingredients?
Yes, you can substitute walnuts with other nuts like pecans, hazelnuts, or almonds, depending on your preference. If you’re looking for a nut-free option, you could replace the walnuts with chocolate chips, dried fruit, or even swirl in some caramel or peanut butter for a different flavor. Keep in mind that these substitutions may slightly alter the texture or taste of the final product.
How Do I Achieve The Perfect Texture In Mary Berry’s Walnut And Chocolate Brownies?
To achieve the perfect texture in Mary Berry’s walnut and chocolate brownies, it’s crucial to follow the mixing and baking instructions carefully. Don’t overmix the batter, as this can lead to dense or chewy brownies. Also, avoid overbaking – these brownies should be soft and fudgy in the center. To test if they are done, insert a skewer into the middle; it should come out with a few moist crumbs attached, but not wet batter.
