Homemade Brownies with Fudgy Center

Ingredients:

1/2 cup (115 grams) unsalted butter
200 grams dark chocolate (roughly chopped)
1 cup (200 grams) granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 cup (65 grams) all-purpose flour
2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
Optional: chocolate chips or chunks for extra fudginess

Preparation:

Preheat your oven to 175°C (350°F) and line an 8x8 inch (20x20 cm) square baking pan with parchment paper. In a heatproof bowl, melt the butter and dark chocolate together over a pot of simmering water (double boiler method) or in the microwave using short intervals, stirring until smooth. Let the mixture cool slightly. Add the sugar and mix well. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract. Sift in the flour, cocoa powder, and salt, and gently fold until just combined. Do not overmix to maintain the fudgy texture. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread it evenly. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the top is set but the center is still slightly soft when a toothpick is inserted. Let the brownies cool completely in the pan before slicing. For an extra gooey center, slightly underbake and refrigerate for at least one hour before serving.