This has been my go-to brownie recipe for well over 20 years. I originally copied it from the back of a package of Nestle Toll House morsels onto an index card, which I have long since lost, but the recipe has remained in my repertoire. They are simple, rich, easily tricked out to your liking, and always get rave reviews. You can thank me (and/or curse me) later.
¾ cup unsifted flour
¼ teaspoon baking soda
¼ teaspoon salt
1⁄3 cup butter
¾ cup sugar
2 tablespoons water
1 (12 ounce) packages Nestle semi-sweet chocolate chips, divided
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 eggs
½ cup nuts, chopped (optional)
Preheat oven to 325 degrees.
In a small bowl, combine flour, baking soda, and salt; set aside.
In a small saucepan, combine butter, sugar, and water.
Bring just to a boil, then remove from heat.
Add 6 ounces (1 cup) chocolate morsels and vanilla extract.
Stir until morsels melt and mixture is smooth.
Transfer to a large bowl (I often skip this step and just do it all in the saucepan).
Add eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition.
Gradually blend in flour mixture.
Stir in remaining 6 ounces (1 cup) of chocolate morsels and the nuts.
Spread into a greased 9-inch square baking pan.
Bake 30 to 35 minutes.
Cool completely before cutting.