In the cozy, aromatic confines of a bustling kitchen, the steps toward making the perfect evening indulgence begins with a simple yet profoundly delicious decision: to make brownies. Yet, not just any brownies, but those born from the delightful concoction of Kodiak Cakes Chocolate Fudge Brownie Mix. This isn’t merely baking; it’s an adventure into the wilds of rich, chocolatey goodness, a quest for that perfect balance of chewy and fudgy that can transform a mundane evening into a celebration of flavors.
I stumbled upon this treasure trove of a recipe during one of my late-night cravings for something sweet yet nourishing. Kodiak Cakes, known for their commitment to whole ingredients and hearty, satisfying dishes, have outdone themselves with this mix, promising not just a treat for the taste buds but a nod to our often-neglected nutritional needs.
Table of Contents
What is Kodiak Cakes Chocolate Fudge Brownie Mix?
Kodiak Cakes Chocolate Fudge Brownie Mix is a brownie mix produced by Kodiak Cakes, a company known for its products emphasising whole grains and protein. This particular mix is designed to make chocolate fudge brownies that are not only tasty but also incorporate healthier ingredients.
Ingredients:
- 1 box of Kodiak Cakes Chocolate Fudge Brownie Mix
- 2/3 cup of unsalted butter (melted and cooled) or you can use oil as a substitute
- 2 large eggs (for a richer texture)
- 2 tablespoons of water
- Optional (for added richness and texture):
- 1/2 cup of chopped nuts (walnuts or pecans)
- 1/2 cup of chocolate chips
Instructions:
- Preheat Your Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your baking environment is ready and waiting for your mix. Preparation is key in baking.
- Prep Your Baking Pan: Lightly grease a 9×9 inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper. This step ensures your brownies will lift easily from the pan without sticking, preserving their perfect chewy edges.
- Mix Your Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the Kodiak Cakes mix, melted (and cooled) unsalted butter, eggs, and water. Stir these ingredients together until you have a smooth batter. Mixing by hand is fine, but be careful not to overmix – you want to maintain some of the mix’s inherent fluffiness.
- Add Optional Ingredients: If you’re including nuts or chocolate chips, fold them into the batter. This is your chance to customize the recipe and make it your own. Remember, the additions should complement the chocolate, not overwhelm it.
- Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-22 minutes. You’re looking for that perfect point where a toothpick inserted into the center comes out mostly clean (a few crumbs are perfect). Overbaking is the nemesis of fudgy brownies, so keep an eye on them.
- Cool: Allow the brownies to cool in the pan. This step requires patience but is vital. Cutting into warm brownies can result in a crumbly mess. Let them set, and they’ll reward you with clean cuts and perfect squares.
- Serve: Once cooled, cut into your desired size and serve. Pair with a cold glass of milk, a scoop of ice cream, or simply enjoy them in all their fudgy, chocolatey glory.
Tips for Baking Perfection:
- Quality Ingredients: Using high-quality butter and fresh eggs can make a difference in the richness of your brownies.
- Don’t Overmix: Mix until combined to keep the texture of the brownies fudgy.
- Know Your Oven: All ovens are different; start checking your brownies a few minutes before the suggested baking time.
- Cooling is Crucial: Allow your brownies to cool completely in the pan for clean, perfect squares.
What to serve with
Brownies made from Kodiak Cakes Chocolate Fudge Brownie Mix are a delightful treat on their own, but pairing them with complementary sides, toppings, and drinks can elevate your dessert experience to new heights. Here are a variety of serving suggestions to accentuate the rich chocolate flavor and the hearty, wholesome texture of these brownies:
Cold Beverages:
- Milk: A classic pairing, the richness of milk complements the intense chocolate flavor.
- Coffee: An espresso or a cup of black coffee with its bitterness can enhance the sweetness and chocolatey notes of the brownies.
- Ice-cold Vanilla Almond Milk: A lactose-free option that adds a nutty flavor, contrasting pleasantly with the brownie’s richness.
Warm Beverages:
- Hot Chocolate: For the ultimate chocolate lover, doubling down with a warm cup of cocoa can be simply divine.
- Tea: A hot cup of Earl Grey or Chai can be a sophisticated pairing that soothes the palate.
Ice Cream:
- Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream creates a classic brownie à la mode. The warm brownie and ice cream contrast is a textural delight.
- Salted Caramel Ice Cream: If you’re feeling adventurous, try a salted caramel flavor to add a sweet and salty twist.
Toppings:
- Whipped Cream: A dollop of whipped cream adds a fluffy lightness to each chocolatey bite.
- Berries: Fresh strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries can add a tart contrast and beautiful visual appeal.
- Nuts: A sprinkling of toasted walnuts or pecans can add a delightful crunch and intensify the brownies’ nutty flavor (if nuts weren’t already added to the batter).
Sauces:
- Caramel Sauce: A drizzle of caramel sauce over your brownie enhances sweetness and depth of flavor.
- Chocolate Ganache: If there is ever such a thing as “too much chocolate,” we haven’t heard of it. A smooth chocolate ganache can make these brownies even more luxurious.
For Special Occasions:
- Cheese Platter: Pair the brownies with a selection of cheeses, such as Brie or goat cheese, for a sophisticated dessert option.
- Wine: Choose a dessert wine like a Port, which has a sweetness that can stand up to the intense flavors of the chocolate.
Ingredients Substitutes
Creating Kodiak Cakes Chocolate Fudge Brownies with alternative ingredients can cater to dietary preferences and restrictions or simply help when you’re in a pinch and missing an ingredient. Below are detailed substitutes for some of the key ingredients in the mix:
Butter Substitute:
Unsalted Butter is called for in the original recipe, providing richness and moisture.
- Coconut Oil: Use equal amounts of melted coconut oil for a dairy-free option. It imparts a slight coconut flavor and retains moisture.
- Applesauce: Use applesauce in a 1:1 ratio for a lower-fat version. This will result in a denser brownie but with fewer calories.
- Greek Yogurt: Replace butter with Greek yoghurt in a ratio of 1:1 to reduce fat while retaining moisture.
- Vegetable Oil: A standard 1:1 substitute for butter, it provides a similar texture without the taste of butter.
Egg Substitute:
Eggs add structure and leavening to the brownies.
- Flax Eggs: Mix 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed with 3 tablespoons of water for each egg required, and let it sit for 15 minutes to thicken. This is a common vegan substitute.
- Chia Eggs: Similar to flax eggs, use 1 tablespoon of chia seeds with 3 tablespoons of water per egg.
- Banana: Half a mashed banana can replace one egg. This will add a banana flavor and increase the sweetness.
- Apple Cider Vinegar and Baking Soda: 1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar mixed with 1 teaspoon of baking soda can replace one egg, helping the brownies rise without eggs.
Water Substitute:
Water is used for moisture without adding flavor or fat.
- Milk: Use any kind of dairy or non-dairy milk instead of water for additional richness.
- Coffee: Substitute water with room temperature or cool coffee to intensify the chocolate flavor.
- Buttermilk: If you want a tang, buttermilk can be a great substitute, adding moisture and a slightly acidic note that can make the brownies tender.
Optional Add-ins Substitute:
- Nuts: If nuts are an issue, seeds like pumpkin or sunflower can provide a similar crunch.
- Chocolate Chips: For a lower sugar option, use cacao nibs or sugar-free or dark chocolate chips.
Final thoughts
Kodiak Cakes Chocolate Fudge Brownie Mix provides a delicious, nutritious foundation for baking, but the true magic lies in your hands. By following these instructions and adding your personal touch, you can transform this simple mix into an extraordinary treat.
More Brownie Recipes:
Ingredients
- 1 box of Kodiak Cakes Chocolate Fudge Brownie Mix
- 2/3 cup of unsalted butter (melted and cooled) or you can use oil as a substitute
- 2 large eggs (for a richer texture)
- 2 tablespoons of water
- Optional (for added richness and texture):
- 1/2 cup of chopped nuts (walnuts or pecans)
- 1/2 cup of chocolate chips
Instructions
- Preheat Your Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your baking environment is ready and waiting for your mix. Preparation is key in baking.
- Prep Your Baking Pan: Lightly grease a 9x9 inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper. This step ensures your brownies will lift easily from the pan without sticking, preserving their perfect chewy edges.
- Mix Your Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the Kodiak Cakes mix, melted (and cooled) unsalted butter, eggs, and water. Stir these ingredients together until you have a smooth batter. Mixing by hand is fine, but be careful not to overmix - you want to maintain some of the mix's inherent fluffiness.
- Add Optional Ingredients: If you're including nuts or chocolate chips, fold them into the batter. This is your chance to customize the recipe and make it your own. Remember, the additions should complement the chocolate, not overwhelm it.
- Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-22 minutes. You're looking for that perfect point where a toothpick inserted into the center comes out mostly clean (a few crumbs are perfect). Overbaking is the nemesis of fudgy brownies, so keep an eye on them.
- Cool: Allow the brownies to cool in the pan. This step requires patience but is vital. Cutting into warm brownies can result in a crumbly mess. Let them set, and they'll reward you with clean cuts and perfect squares.
- Serve: Once cooled, cut into your desired size and serve. Pair with a cold glass of milk, a scoop of ice cream, or simply enjoy them in all their fudgy, chocolatey glory.
