Hot Fudge Brownie Bread


 

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

  • Fudgy & Rich: The dense, chocolatey texture of your favorite brownies, now in loaf form.

  • Hot Fudge Swirl: A luxurious homemade hot fudge swirl adds depth and indulgence.

  • Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, it's perfect for beginners.

  • Versatile: Enjoy it as a dessert, breakfast, or late-night treat.

  • Crowd-Pleasing: A show-stopping loaf perfect for gatherings, potlucks, and holidays.

Ingredients You’ll Need:

For the Brownie Bread:

  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

  • 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder (preferably high-quality)

  • 1 tsp baking powder

  • 1/2 tsp baking soda

  • 1/2 tsp salt

  • 1 cup granulated sugar

  • 1/2 cup brown sugar (adds moisture and richness)

  • 2 large eggs (room temperature)

  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

  • 1/2 cup vegetable oil (or melted butter for extra richness)

  • 1/2 cup plain yogurt (or sour cream for added tenderness)

  • 1/2 cup hot water (or brewed coffee for deeper flavor)

For the Hot Fudge Swirl:

  • 1/2 cup heavy cream

  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar

  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter

  • 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder

  • 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips

  • 1/4 tsp vanilla extract

Optional Toppings:

  • Flaky sea salt

  • Chopped nuts (pecans or walnuts)

  • Ice cream (for serving warm slices à la mode)

Step-by-Step Instructions:

  1. Preheat & Prep: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x5-inch loaf pan and line with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal.

  2. Make the Brownie Batter: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth. Add the vegetable oil and yogurt, mixing until combined. Gradually stir in the dry ingredients until just combined. Slowly add the hot water (or coffee), mixing until smooth and slightly thickened.

  3. Make the Hot Fudge Swirl: In a small saucepan, combine the heavy cream, sugar, butter, and cocoa powder. Heat over medium-low, stirring constantly until smooth and thickened (3–5 minutes). Remove from heat and stir in the chocolate chips and vanilla extract until melted and glossy. Let it cool slightly.

  4. Assemble the Loaf: Pour half of the brownie batter into the prepared pan. Spoon dollops of hot fudge over the batter and gently swirl with a knife. Top with the remaining brownie batter and spread evenly to cover the fudge layer.

  5. Bake: Bake for 50–60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out mostly clean (a few moist crumbs are fine). If the top browns too quickly, cover loosely with foil halfway through.

  6. Cool & Serve: Let the loaf cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. For a gooey treat, serve warm. Slice and optionally top with sea salt, nuts, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Why This Recipe Works:

  • Chocolate Magic: The combination of cocoa powder, melted chocolate, and hot fudge creates a decadent, fudgy flavor.

  • Moist Texture: Yogurt (or sour cream) and brown sugar keep the loaf tender and delicious.

  • Swirled Perfection: The hot fudge swirl adds a melty indulgent layer in every bite.

Variations to Try:

  • Gluten-Free: Swap all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend.

  • Nutty Crunch: Add chopped pecans, walnuts, or hazelnuts for extra texture.

  • Spiced Version: Add 1/2 tsp cinnamon or a pinch of cayenne for a spicy twist.

  • White Chocolate Twist: Use white chocolate chips instead of semi-sweet.

  • Vegan: Replace yogurt, butter, and eggs with plant-based alternatives.

Tips for Success:

  • Don’t Overmix: Stir the batter just until combined to avoid a dense loaf.

  • Use Quality Ingredients: High-quality cocoa and chocolate make a significant difference in flavor.

  • Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for up to 5 days. Reheat slices for a gooey experience.

Serving Suggestions:

  • Romantic Touch: Dust with powdered sugar and serve with fresh berries.

  • Brunch Staple: Pair with coffee or milk for a sweet breakfast treat.

  • Party Platter: Serve alongside other desserts like cookies or truffles for variety.