Craving something sweet, rich, and a little unconventional? These red wine and salted chocolate brownies are your answer. 

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup cocoa powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 cup red wine 
• 2 large eggs
• 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
• Flaky sea salt, for sprinkling

Instructions:

1. Preheat and Prepare:

   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides to easily lift the brownies out after baking.

2. Melt Butter and Chocolate:

   • In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Remove from heat and stir in sugar and cocoa powder until the mixture is smooth and glossy.

3. Add Wet Ingredients:

   • Mix in the salt, vanilla extract, and red wine. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition until the mixture is thick and shiny.

4. Incorporate Dry Ingredients:

   • Gently fold in the flour until just combined, ensuring not to overmix. Stir in the chocolate chips.

5. Bake:

   • Pour the batter into the prepared pan, spreading it out evenly. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with only a few moist crumbs. The key is not to overbake to keep the brownies fudgy.

6. Add Finishing Touches:

   • Remove from the oven and immediately sprinkle with flaky sea salt, which will complement the deep wine and chocolate flavors beautifully. Allow the brownies to cool in the pan on a wire rack.

7. Serve and Enjoy:

   • Once cool, lift the brownies out of the pan using the parchment paper overhang, cut into squares, and serve. These are best enjoyed slightly warm, maybe with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a glass of the same red wine used in the recipe.

Wine & Dine Hamper with wine for making brownies!

 

Why This Recipe Works:

The red wine not only deepens the chocolate flavor but also adds a sophisticated note that makes these brownies stand out. The wine’s acidity and fruitiness enhance the cocoa, while the sea salt provides a burst of flavor contrast that elevates the overall taste experience.

Pairing Suggestions:

These brownies pair beautifully with more of the red wine you’ve used in the baking, a cup of strong coffee, or even a glass of cold milk. They are versatile enough for a casual treat or as part of a more elaborate dessert at a dinner party.

Tips for Perfect Brownies:

• Quality Matters: Use a good quality cocoa powder and chocolate chips for the best flavor.
• Don’t Overmix: Mix the batter just until the ingredients are incorporated. Overmixing can lead to cakey brownies.
• Watch the Oven: Keep an eye on your brownies as they bake to prevent overcooking. You want them moist and fudgy.