Who doesn’t love sinking their teeth into a warm, fudgy brownie straight from the oven? We’ve always been fans of Mrs. Fields’ iconic treats, and their brownie recipe captures that perfect blend of gooey chocolate and crisp edges that made the brand a household name back in the 1980s.
Ingredients
We love how the right ingredients transform simple pantry staples into the irresistible, fudgy delight of our Mrs. Fields Brownie Recipe. Below, we list them in the order they’re typically used, with precise measurements and prep notes for accuracy.
- 1 cup unsalted butter, melted (ensure it’s at room temperature for even mixing)
- 2 cups granulated sugar (use fine-grain for smooth dissolution into the batter)
- 4 large eggs, at room temperature (beat lightly before adding for better incorporation)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (pure variety enhances the chocolate flavor)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour, sifted (helps prevent lumps and ensures a tender crumb)
- 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder, high-quality (sift to avoid bitterness and achieve that signature rich color)
- ½ teaspoon salt (balances sweetness and amplifies chocolate notes)
- 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips (fold in last for gooey pockets throughout the brownies)
Equipment Needed
Before we dive into mixing our luscious ingredients for the Mrs. Fields brownie recipe, let’s gather the essential tools that ensure a seamless baking process. These items help us achieve that perfect fudgy texture and crisp edges that make this recipe iconic.
We recommend the following equipment, listed in the order you’ll use them:
- Large mixing bowl: For combining dry ingredients like flour and cocoa powder; opt for a sturdy, heat-resistant one to handle any warm mixtures.
- Medium saucepan: Ideal for melting unsalted butter and chocolate chips smoothly on the stove, preventing lumps and ensuring even heat distribution.
- Whisk or wooden spoon: A sturdy whisk works best for blending wet ingredients such as eggs and vanilla extract, creating a uniform batter without overmixing.
- Measuring cups and spoons set: Accurate measurements are key for our recipe’s success—use a set with both dry and liquid options to precisely measure items like granulated sugar and cocoa powder.
- 9×13 inch baking pan: This is crucial for achieving the signature thick, chewy brownies; line it with parchment paper for easy removal and to maintain those crisp edges.
- Oven thermometer: To guarantee your oven is at the exact temperature needed for baking, helping us replicate the original Mrs. Fields quality every time.
- Spatula or rubber scraper: Perfect for folding in chocolate chips and scraping batter into the pan, ensuring no delicious bits are left behind.
- Cooling rack: Allows brownies to cool evenly after baking, preserving their gooey center and enhancing flavor development.
With this equipment on hand, we’re set to transform our ingredients into the mouthwatering Mrs. Fields brownies we all crave.
Instructions
Now that we have gathered our essential ingredients and equipment, let’s bring our Mrs. Fields Brownie Recipe to life with these straightforward steps. We’ll walk you through the process to achieve that signature fudgy texture and rich chocolate flavor that fans crave.
Prepare the Ingredients
Before we start mixing, it’s crucial to prepare our ingredients for smooth baking. Begin by melting 1 cup of unsalted butter in a medium saucepan over low heat until fully liquefied—watch for a glossy shine that signals it’s ready. Next, measure out 2 cups of granulated sugar and crack 4 large eggs into a separate bowl to ensure they are at room temperature for better incorporation. Sift 1 cup of all-purpose flour with 1/2 cup of unsweetened cocoa powder and 1/2 teaspoon of salt to remove any lumps and enhance the brownies’ velvety consistency. Don’t forget to have 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract and 1 cup of semisweet chocolate chips on hand—these add the irresistible gooey pockets that define our Mrs. Fields brownies.
Mix the Batter
With ingredients prepped, we’ll mix the batter to create that decadent base. In a large mixing bowl, combine the melted butter and granulated sugar using a whisk or wooden spoon, stirring vigorously until the mixture turns pale and slightly fluffy—this step incorporates air for a tender crumb. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each to build a smooth emulsion, then stir in the vanilla extract for a fragrant aroma that hints at the chocolatey bliss to come. Gradually fold in the sifted flour mixture using a spatula, mixing just until incorporated to avoid overworking the batter and keep it fudgy. Finally, gently fold in the chocolate chips, ensuring even distribution for those melt-in-your-mouth bursts of semisweet chocolate that make our Mrs. Fields Brownie Recipe legendary.
Bake the Brownies
Now it’s time to bake and transform our batter into golden perfection. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking pan for easy release. Pour the batter into the pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula to create a uniform layer that bakes consistently. Slide the pan into the center of the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs—resist the temptation to overbake, as this preserves the fudgy center and crisp edges that define Mrs. Fields’ appeal. As it bakes, you’ll notice the irresistible aroma of warm chocolate filling your kitchen, signaling a treat that’s as sensory as it is satisfying.
Cool and Cut
Once baked, cooling is key to setting the structure without losing that gooey interior. Remove the pan from the oven and place it on a cooling rack for at least 15-20 minutes to allow the brownies to firm up gradually—this prevents crumbling and ensures clean cuts. After initial cooling, if you prefer firmer slices, let them cool completely for another 30 minutes. Use a sharp knife to cut the brownies into 24 even squares—aim for 6 rows by 4 columns—for perfect portions that showcase the rich, fudgy layers of our Mrs. Fields Brownie Recipe.
Make-Ahead Instructions
One of the beauties of our Mrs. Fields Brownie Recipe is its flexibility for busy schedules. We often prepare components in advance to save time while preserving that signature fudgy center and crisp edges. Below, we outline step-by-step methods to make ahead, ensuring your brownies remain fresh and delicious.
Preparing Ingredients in Advance
To streamline your baking process, we recommend prepping ingredients ahead of time:
- Dry ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, unsweetened cocoa powder, and salt. Sift them together to avoid lumps, then store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- Wet ingredients: Melt the unsalted butter and let it cool completely. Mix it with granulated sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract in a separate bowl, then cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. This prevents the mixture from separating and keeps flavors vibrant.
- Add-ins: Measure out semisweet chocolate chips and set them aside in a sealed bag. They can stay at room temperature for 1–2 days without affecting texture.
Making Batter Ahead
If you want to mix the full batter in advance, follow these steps for optimal results:
- After combining the wet and dry ingredients as per our baking instructions, fold in the chocolate chips until just incorporated.
- Transfer the batter to an airtight container and refrigerate it for up to 48 hours. This allows flavors to meld, enhancing the gooey chocolate profile of the Mrs. Fields Brownie Recipe.
- When ready to bake, let the batter sit at room temperature for 15–20 minutes to soften before pouring it into the greased 9×13 inch baking pan.
Baking and Storing Ahead
For fully baked brownies, we suggest these storage tips to maintain quality:
- Bake the brownies completely as outlined, then cool them on a rack for at least 1 hour.
- Cut into portions and store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, in the refrigerator for up to 1 week, or freeze for up to 3 months.
- To reheat, thaw frozen brownies overnight in the fridge, then warm individual pieces in the microwave for 10–15 seconds. This restores the soft, fudgy texture without overcooking.
| Storage Method | Duration | Best Practices |
|---|---|---|
| Room Temperature | Up to 3 days | Use an airtight container to prevent staleness. |
| Refrigerator | Up to 1 week | Wrap tightly to avoid moisture buildup. |
| Freezer | Up to 3 months | Double-wrap in plastic and foil for protection. |
By following these make-ahead strategies, we ensure your Mrs. Fields Brownie Recipe stays effortless and irresistible, ready whenever a chocolate craving strikes.
Conclusion
We’ve loved sharing this timeless Mrs. Fields brownie recipe with you
It’s a foolproof way to bring that fudgy chocolate magic into your kitchen
As you bake these treats we’ll bet they become a staple in your home
Remember we’re here for more baking adventures so dive in and enjoy every bite
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the key ingredients in Mrs. Fields’ brownie recipe?
The essential ingredients include unsalted butter, granulated sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, all-purpose flour, unsweetened cocoa powder, salt, and semisweet chocolate chips. These combine to create a fudgy texture with crisp edges, using precise measurements for the best results.
What equipment do I need to make Mrs. Fields brownies?
You’ll need a large mixing bowl, medium saucepan, whisk or wooden spoon, measuring cups and spoons, a 9×13 inch baking pan, oven thermometer, spatula or rubber scraper, and a cooling rack. This ensures even mixing, baking, and cooling for perfect brownies every time.
How do I prepare the brownie batter for Mrs. Fields’ recipe?
Start by melting butter and mixing with sugar, eggs, and vanilla. Sift flour and cocoa powder, then combine with the wet ingredients to form the batter. Fold in chocolate chips for gooeyness, incorporating air for a tender crumb.
How long should I bake Mrs. Fields brownies?
Preheat your oven to the specified temperature, pour batter into a greased 9×13 inch pan, and bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out with moist crumbs. This keeps the center fudgy while the edges crisp up.
Can I make Mrs. Fields brownie batter ahead of time?
Yes, prepare dry ingredients in advance or mix wet ingredients and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. For full batter, refrigerate it to enhance flavors, but bake soon after for the best texture and freshness.
How should I store baked Mrs. Fields brownies?
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, refrigerate for up to a week, or freeze for up to 3 months. This keeps them moist and flavorful, ready for whenever you need a chocolate fix.
Why are Mrs. Fields brownies so popular?
Mrs. Fields brownies gained fame in the 1980s for their perfect gooey chocolate center and crisp edges. The simple, high-quality ingredients and easy recipe make them irresistible, appealing to chocolate lovers seeking a nostalgic, homemade treat.