Katharine Hepburn’s Brownies

Katharine Hepburn’s Brownies

Much like its author, this recipe is a no-fuss classic. It calls for just 1/4 cup of flour, which yields an incredibly rich and gooey brownie, and it's super easy to make. So easy, in fact, that baking a batch of these might just become part of your weekend routine. (Watch the video of <a href="https://youtu.be/vBySJoleYwM">Vaughn Vreeland making Katharine Hepburn’s brownies here</a>.)

Ingredients

  • 1/2 cup cocoa
  • 1/2 cup butter

    1 stick

  • 2 eggs
  • 1 cup sugar
  • 1/4 cup flour
  • 1 cup chopped or broken-up walnuts or pecans
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla
  • Pinch of salt

Directions

  1. 1

    Heat oven to 325 degrees.

  2. 2

    Melt butter in saucepan with cocoa and stir until smooth. Remove from heat and allow to cool for a few minutes, then transfer to a large bowl. Whisk in eggs, one at a time. Stir in vanilla.

  3. 3

    In a separate bowl, combine sugar, flour, nuts and salt. Add to the cocoa-butter mixture. Stir until just combined.

  4. 4

    Pour into a greased 8 x 8-inch-square pan. Bake 30 to 35 minutes. Do not overbake; the brownies should be gooey. Let cool, then cut into bars.

Katharine Hepburn’s Brownies

Katharine Hepburn’s Brownies

5.0(13.5k)

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Ratings & Reviews

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Based on 13,514 ratings

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About this Recipe

Craving a brownie that’s truly fudgy, incredibly rich, and effortlessly simple to make? Katharine Hepburn’s legendary brownie recipe is a no-fuss classic that promises an intensely chocolatey, gooey experience without any complications.

Why These Brownies Work

The genius of this recipe lies in its remarkably low flour content—just 1/4 cup. This minimal flour ratio is the secret to achieving that signature gooey, dense, and ultra-rich texture, setting these apart from cakey versions. It's a testament to how simple ingredients, when balanced just right, can create a truly unforgettable dessert.

What makes these brownies special is their undeniable richness, a direct result of the high butter and cocoa content, perfectly complemented by the subtle crunch of nuts. This easy approach makes baking a batch a delightful and accessible project for any home cook, promising consistently decadent results every time.

What to Expect

Prepare for a truly indulgent treat. Each bite of Katharine Hepburn’s brownies delivers a profound, deep chocolate flavor, a wonderfully moist and intensely gooey texture, and the pleasant, earthy contrast of chopped walnuts or pecans. Despite their luxurious taste, they are incredibly easy to prepare, making them a perfect last-minute dessert or a comforting weekend baking project. You’ll be left with a satisfyingly dense and rich brownie that’s everything you could wish for.

Customization & Variations

While the classic recipe is perfect as is, it's easy to adjust to your preferences. If you're not a fan of nuts, simply omit the 1 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans for a smooth, pure chocolate experience. For an even more intense cocoa flavor, consider using your favorite high-quality cocoa powder.

Serving & Context

These timeless brownies are ideal for any occasion—whether you’re sharing them with friends, serving them as a comforting dessert after a meal, or simply enjoying one (or two!) with a cup of coffee. Their deep, satisfying flavor shines brightest when served simply, allowing the richness to be the star.

Frequently Asked Questions