We’ve always been captivated by the Tartine brownie a decadent classic from San Francisco’s famed Tartine Bakery. This fudgy delight blends rich chocolate with a gooey center that keeps us coming back for more.
In our kitchen we’ve simplified the original recipe so you can whip up bakery-quality treats at home. It’s perfect for impressing friends or satisfying your chocolate cravings without the fuss.
Whether you’re a baking novice or pro our Tartine brownie will become your go-to indulgence.
Ingredients
To craft our irresistible Tartine Brownies with their rich chocolate flavor and gooey center, we’ve compiled this precise list of ingredients. We order them here as they’ll be used in the preparation process, including any necessary prep notes for accuracy and ease.
- 8 ounces dark chocolate, chopped (we recommend high-quality for optimal melting and flavor)
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, cubed (ensures even melting with the chocolate)
- 2 cups granulated sugar (adds the perfect sweetness to balance the Tartine Brownie‘s intensity)
- 4 large eggs (at room temperature for better incorporation and a fudgy texture)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (pure variety enhances the overall depth)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour (sifted if possible, to avoid lumps when folding in)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (fine sea salt works best for highlighting the chocolate notes)
- Optional: 1 cup chopped nuts (such as walnuts or pecans, toasted for added crunch if desired)
Required Equipment
To bring our Tartine brownie recipe to life, we need a few key pieces of equipment that ensure precise preparation and perfect results. This setup simplifies the baking process, allowing us to achieve that signature gooey center and rich chocolate flavor with ease.
Below, we outline the essential tools, organized by their role in the recipe for optimal workflow:
- Mixing Bowls: Two medium-sized stainless steel or glass bowls for combining ingredients. We recommend one for dry ingredients and another for wet to keep things organized and prevent cross-contamination.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: A set of standard measuring cups (1 cup, ½ cup, ⅓ cup, ¼ cup) and spoons (1 tablespoon, 1 teaspoon, ½ teaspoon) for accurate measurements. Precision here is crucial for the brownie’s texture, as exact ratios of flour and sugar make all the difference.
- Whisk and Spatula: A sturdy wire whisk for blending the batter smoothly and a heat-resistant silicone spatula for folding in ingredients without overmixing. These tools help us incorporate air for a lighter crumb while maintaining that fudgy consistency.
- Baking Pan: An 8×8-inch square metal baking pan for even heat distribution. We prefer metal over glass as it promotes a crisp edge, which contrasts beautifully with the soft interior of our Tartine brownies.
- Oven: A conventional or convection oven preheated to 350°F. Ensure it’s calibrated for accuracy—a simple oven thermometer can verify this to avoid underbaked or overcooked results.
- Parchment Paper and Cooling Rack: Sheets of parchment paper to line the pan and prevent sticking, plus a wire cooling rack for allowing the brownies to cool evenly. This step locks in moisture and makes removal effortless.
For quick reference, here’s a table summarizing the equipment quantities and purposes:
| Equipment Item | Quantity Needed | Primary Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Mixing Bowls | 2 | Separating and mixing ingredients |
| Measuring Cups and Spoons | 1 set | Ensuring precise measurements |
| Whisk and Spatula | 1 each | Blending and folding batter |
| Baking Pan | 1 (8×8-inch) | Baking the brownies evenly |
| Oven | 1 | Heating to the required temperature |
| Parchment Paper | 1 sheet | Lining pan to prevent sticking |
| Cooling Rack | 1 | Cooling brownies post-bake |
With these tools in hand, we’re fully equipped to transition seamlessly into the preparation steps, focusing on efficiency and quality for our irresistible Tartine brownies.
Instructions
We guide you through creating our irresistible Tartine brownies with simple step-by-step directions that build on the ingredients and equipment we’ve prepared. Let’s transform those rich dark chocolate components into a gooey decadent treat perfect for any chocolate lover.
Prepare the Ingredients
First we gather and prep all our ingredients to ensure smooth baking. Start by chopping 8 ounces of high-quality dark chocolate into small even pieces for quick melting. Next measure out 1 cup of unsalted butter cut into cubes to blend easily. In separate bowls crack 4 large eggs and whisk them lightly then add 2 cups of granulated sugar and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Sift together 1 cup of all-purpose flour and ½ teaspoon of salt to remove lumps. If adding chopped nuts for texture stir in ½ cup of your choice like walnuts or pecans at this stage. This preparation sets the stage for our signature Tartine brownie’s rich chocolate flavor and ensures every element integrates perfectly.
Mix the Batter
Now we combine the ingredients to form a luscious batter that captures the essence of Tartine brownies. In a heatproof bowl melt the chopped dark chocolate and cubed unsalted butter together over a double boiler stirring constantly until smooth and glossy—aim for about 2-3 minutes to avoid scorching. Remove from heat and whisk in the granulated sugar egg mixture gradually until fully incorporated creating a velvety texture that promises a gooey center. Gently fold in the sifted all-purpose flour and salt using a spatula to keep the batter airy and prevent overmixing. At this point envision the intense chocolate aroma filling your kitchen as we achieve the ideal consistency for our Tartine brownies.
Bake the Brownies
With the batter ready we move to baking for that perfect golden edge and fudgy interior. Preheat your oven to 350°F and line an 8×8-inch metal baking pan with parchment paper leaving overhang for easy removal. Pour the batter into the pan spreading it evenly with a spatula to about 1-inch thickness. Bake on the middle rack for 25-30 minutes or until the edges are set but the center remains slightly wobbly when gently shaken—this ensures the gooey center that defines our Tartine brownies. Keep an eye on the time as overbaking can lead to dry results so use a toothpick test for precision.
Assemble the Tartine
Finally we assemble our Tartine brownies to enhance their appeal and make them ready to serve. Once baked remove the pan from the oven and place it on a cooling rack for 10-15 minutes to set. Lift the brownies out using the parchment overhang and let them cool completely on the rack for another 30 minutes to develop the full rich chocolate flavor. For a polished finish cut into 16 squares using a sharp knife and if desired dust with powdered sugar or add a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Now your Tartine brownies are assembled and primed for indulgence.
Make-Ahead Tips
As we perfect our Tartine brownie recipe, preparing these indulgent, chocolatey treats ahead of time ensures you can enjoy their gooey center and rich flavor whenever cravings strike. We recommend these practical strategies to maintain the brownies’ fudgy texture and decadent taste.
Preparing the Batter in Advance
To save time on baking day, we suggest mixing the batter up to 24 hours ahead. Start by combining the melted chocolate and butter mixture as outlined in our steps, then whisk in the eggs, sugar, and vanilla. Avoid adding the flour and salt until you’re ready to bake, as this prevents the batter from becoming too dense. Store the prepared mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When it’s time to bake, let it sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes to soften, then fold in the dry ingredients and proceed with baking. This method keeps the batter’s velvety consistency intact, delivering that signature melt-in-your-mouth experience.
Baking and Storing the Brownies
For fully baked brownies, we advise cooling them completely on a rack after baking, as described earlier, before cutting into squares. These brownies can be stored effectively for several days or even frozen for longer periods.
| Storage Method | Duration | Tips for Best Results |
|---|---|---|
| Room Temperature | Up to 2 days | Wrap brownies tightly in plastic wrap or store in an airtight container to preserve their moist, fudgy interior and prevent staleness. |
| Refrigerator | Up to 5 days | Place cooled brownies in a sealed container to avoid drying out; this extends shelf life while maintaining the rich chocolate flavor. |
| Freezer | Up to 3 months | Individually wrap squares in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator for optimal texture, ensuring the brownies retain their gooey center without becoming crumbly. |
Reheating for Freshness
If you’ve stored your Tartine brownies, reheating them properly enhances their warm, irresistibly chewy appeal. For refrigerated brownies, let them sit at room temperature for 30 minutes or warm individual pieces in the microwave for 10-15 seconds on medium power. Frozen brownies should thaw first in the fridge, then be warmed in a 300°F oven for 5-10 minutes to restore that fresh-baked gloss and depth of chocolate flavor. Always monitor closely to avoid overcooking, keeping the indulgent experience as close to just-baked as possible.
Conclusion
We’ve explored the joys of baking our own Tartine brownies, turning simple ingredients into pure indulgence. It’s a recipe that’ll elevate your home baking game and satisfy that chocolate craving every time. Let’s dive in and create memorable treats that bring us together around the table.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Tartine brownie?
The Tartine brownie is a signature treat from San Francisco’s Tartine Bakery, known for its rich chocolate flavor and gooey center. This simplified recipe makes it easy for home bakers of all levels to recreate bakery-quality brownies, using high-quality ingredients like dark chocolate and butter for an indulgent experience.
What ingredients are needed for the Tartine brownie recipe?
You’ll need dark chocolate, unsalted butter, granulated sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, all-purpose flour, and salt. Optional additions like chopped nuts can add texture. These ingredients ensure a fudgy, rich brownie that’s simple to prepare at home.
What equipment is required to make Tartine brownies?
Essential tools include mixing bowls, measuring cups and spoons, a whisk and spatula, an 8×8-inch metal baking pan, parchment paper, an oven preheated to 350°F, and a cooling rack. These items help achieve precise measurements and the perfect gooey texture.
How do I make Tartine brownies step by step?
Start by melting chocolate and butter, then whisk eggs with sugar and vanilla. Mix in the chocolate mixture, fold in flour and salt, and pour into a prepared pan. Bake at 350°F until set but gooey inside. Cool before cutting into squares for the best results.
Can I prepare Tartine brownies ahead of time?
Yes, you can mix the batter up to 24 hours in advance, but add flour and salt just before baking to maintain texture. This makes it convenient for planning ahead while keeping the brownies fresh.
How should I store Tartine brownies?
Store cooled brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, in the fridge for up to a week, or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven or microwave to restore their warm, fudgy quality before serving.
Are Tartine brownies suitable for beginner bakers?
Absolutely, the simplified recipe is ideal for novices and experts alike, with straightforward steps and common ingredients. Focus on precise measurements and baking times to achieve that signature gooey center easily.