If you love brownies and enjoy the convenience of quick bread, you’re in for a treat with this Brownie Bread recipe. Imagine the rich, fudgy texture of a brownie but baked in a loaf pan and sliced like bread. This dessert, or anytime treat, is sure to satisfy your chocolate cravings and become a favorite among family and friends. Brownie Bread is not only delicious but also easy to make, making it perfect for any occasion.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through the steps to create this delectable Brownie Bread. From preparing the batter to achieving the perfect ganache topping, you’ll find all the tips and tricks needed to ensure your bread turns out perfectly every time. Whether you’re an experienced baker or a novice in the kitchen, this recipe is straightforward and rewarding, promising a fudgy, chocolatey delight that will be quickly devoured.
Ingredients Breakdown
To achieve the perfect Brownie Bread, it’s essential to use high-quality ingredients and understand their roles in the recipe.
Main Ingredients:
- 1 cup (168 g) milk chocolate chips: Adds rich, creamy chocolate flavor to the bread.
- 1 ¼ cups (156 g) all-purpose flour: Provides structure to the bread.
- ½ cup (59 g) Dutch-processed cocoa powder: Adds deep, intense chocolate flavor.
- ¼ teaspoon baking soda: Helps the bread rise slightly and achieve a tender crumb.
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt: Enhances the flavors and balances the sweetness.
- 3 large eggs, room temperature: Provide structure and moisture to the bread.
- 1 ¼ cups (250 g) granulated sugar: Sweetens the bread and helps achieve a tender texture.
- ½ cup (109 g) vegetable oil: Adds moisture and richness.
- ¾ cup water: Helps create a smooth, pourable batter.
Milk Chocolate Ganache:
- ½ cup (84 g) milk chocolate chips: Provides a rich, creamy chocolate base for the ganache.
- ¼ cup (59.5 g) heavy cream: Adds creaminess and helps achieve a smooth ganache.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Bread
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Spray a 9×5-inch metal loaf pan with nonstick cooking spray to ensure easy removal of the bread after baking.
- Melt the Chocolate Chips: In a medium, microwave-safe bowl, add 1 cup of milk chocolate chips. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until the chips are melted and smooth. Set aside to cool slightly while you prepare the dry ingredients.
- Combine the Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together 1 ¼ cups all-purpose flour, ½ cup Dutch-processed cocoa powder, ¼ teaspoon baking soda, and 1 teaspoon kosher salt. Set aside.
- Beat the Eggs and Sugar: In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, or using a hand-held mixer, beat 3 large eggs and 1 ¼ cups granulated sugar on medium speed until light and fluffy, about 5 minutes.
- Add the Wet Ingredients: With the mixer on low speed, add the melted chocolate, ½ cup vegetable oil, and ¾ cup water. Mix until smooth and well combined.
- Incorporate the Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until no lumps remain and the batter is smooth.
- Pour the Batter: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, spreading it evenly.
- Bake the Bread: Bake in the preheated oven for 85-90 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the bread comes out with a few crumbs but no wet batter. Be careful not to overbake, as this can dry out the bread. Start checking at 75 minutes using the toothpick test.
- Cool the Bread: Allow the bread to cool completely in the pan before adding the ganache. This helps the bread set and makes it easier to remove from the pan.
Making the Milk Chocolate Ganache
- Heat the Heavy Cream: Place ½ cup milk chocolate chips in a heat-safe bowl. In a medium saucepan over medium-high heat, bring ¼ cup heavy cream to a simmer, stirring occasionally to prevent burning.
- Melt the Chocolate Chips: Pour the hot cream over the chocolate chips. Let it sit for a minute or two before slowly stirring until all the chocolate chips are melted and the ganache is smooth.
- Cool the Ganache: Allow the ganache to cool and thicken slightly before drizzling it over the cooled bread.
Finishing the Bread
- Drizzle the Ganache: Drizzle the chocolate ganache over the cooled bread, allowing it to cascade down the sides. Use a spatula to spread it evenly if needed.
- Set the Ganache: Let the ganache set for at least 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving. This ensures a firm, glossy finish.
Serving Suggestions
Brownie Bread is a versatile dessert that can be enjoyed in various settings. Here are a few serving suggestions to make your dessert experience even more delightful:
- Classic Presentation: Slice the bread and serve it on a decorative platter. The rich, chocolatey slices will be irresistible.
- Serve with Ice Cream: Pair each slice of bread with a scoop of vanilla or chocolate ice cream for an indulgent treat.
- Top with Whipped Cream: Add a dollop of freshly whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa powder for an extra special dessert.
- Holiday Variation: Add a sprinkle of festive colored sprinkles on top for a holiday-themed treat.
- Pair with Coffee or Tea: Serve the bread with a cup of hot coffee or tea for a cozy, comforting treat.
Tips for Perfect Brownie Bread
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure that your eggs are at room temperature before you begin. This helps them blend more smoothly and results in a better texture.
- Proper Mixing: Beat the eggs and sugar until light and fluffy to ensure a tender, moist texture.
- Check for Doneness: Use a toothpick to check for doneness. Insert it into the center of the bread at the 75-minute mark. If it comes out with a few crumbs but no wet batter, the bread is done.
- Cool Completely: Allow the bread to cool completely in the pan before adding the ganache. This helps the bread set and makes it easier to remove from the pan.
- Smooth Ganache: Melt the chocolate chips and heavy cream over low heat to prevent scorching. Stir constantly for a smooth, glossy ganache.
Customizing Your Brownie Bread
One of the joys of making homemade bread is the ability to customize it to your taste. Here are a few ideas for variations and additions:
- Nutty Twist: Add ½ cup of chopped nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, to the batter for added crunch and flavor.
- Spiced Up: Add 1 teaspoon of cinnamon or a pinch of nutmeg to the dry ingredients for a warm, spiced flavor.
- Different Chips: Use dark chocolate chips, white chocolate chips, or butterscotch chips instead of, or in addition to, the milk chocolate chips.
- Fruity Addition: Stir in ½ cup of dried fruit, such as cherries or cranberries, for a chewy, sweet addition.
- Healthy Twist: Substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a slightly healthier version.
Nutritional Information
For those mindful of their dietary intake, here’s a basic nutritional breakdown per serving (approximately 1 slice):
- Calories: 306kcal
Keep in mind that the nutritional values may vary based on the exact quantities and brands of ingredients used.
Conclusion
Brownie Bread is a delightful and easy-to-make treat that combines the best of a fudgy brownie and a quick bread. Perfect for any occasion, this bread is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.
By following the detailed steps and tips provided in this guide, you can create Brownie Bread that is perfect every time. Whether you’re making it for a family gathering, a potluck, or simply as a treat for yourself, this bread is sure to impress and satisfy.
So, the next time you’re in the mood for something sweet and comforting, give this Brownie Bread recipe a try. Your taste buds will thank you, and you’ll have a delicious dessert to share with friends and family.
Happy baking!