How to make Hot Chocolate Brownies

Hot Chocolate Brownies are a delightful treat with the rich flavor of hot chocolate. Here's a simple recipe for you:

Ingredients:

For the Brownies:

- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter

- 1 cup granulated sugar

- 2 large eggs

- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

- 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder

- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour

- 1/4 teaspoon salt

- 1/4 cup hot chocolate mix (powdered)

For the Topping:

- 1 cup mini marshmallows

- 1/2 cup semisweet chocolate chips

- Crushed graham crackers (optional, for a s'mores twist)

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8x8-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.

2. In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the butter in 20-30 second intervals until it's completely melted. Alternatively, you can melt the butter on the stove over low heat. Allow it to cool slightly.

3. Stir the granulated sugar into the melted butter until well combined.

4. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.

5. In a separate bowl, whisk together the cocoa powder, all-purpose flour, salt, and hot chocolate mix.

6. Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; you want a smooth batter.

7. Pour the brownie batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly.

8. Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. Don't overbake; you want them to be fudgy.

9. Remove the brownies from the oven and immediately sprinkle the mini marshmallows evenly over the top. Return the pan to the oven for another 2-3 minutes, or until the marshmallows start to puff and turn golden brown.

10. Remove the brownies from the oven again and sprinkle the chocolate chips on top. You can also add crushed graham crackers at this stage if you want to give them a s'mores touch.

11. Allow the brownies to cool in the pan for about 10-15 minutes. Then, lift them out using the parchment paper (if used) and transfer them to a cutting board.

12. Let the brownies cool completely before cutting them into squares.

Enjoy your Hot Chocolate Brownies! They are best served warm or at room temperature.