Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) and line your baking pan with parchment paper for easy removal.

- Place the dark chocolate and butter in a heatproof bowl and melt them together, either over a double boiler or in short bursts in the microwave, until smooth and glossy—this fills the kitchen with a rich chocolate aroma.

- In a separate large bowl, whisk the eggs and sugar vigorously until the mixture becomes frothy and slightly paler, and you can see a gentle rippling when you lift the whisk—this aerates the eggs for a tender crumb.

- Pour the melted chocolate and butter into the egg mixture, folding gently with a spatula until well combined and smooth, with a shiny, thick consistency that drapes off the spatula.

- Sift the flour and a pinch of salt into the wet mixture, then gently fold until just incorporated, taking care not to overmix—the batter should be thick and glossy.

- Pour the batter into your prepared pan, spreading evenly with a spatula to ensure a level surface, and notice how the batter is dense yet smooth to the touch.

- Bake the brownies in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes, until the edges are set and slightly pull away from the pan, while the center remains moist and fudgy—your kitchen will smell irresistibly chocolaty.

- Remove the pan from the oven and let the brownies cool in the pan for about 15 minutes, which helps them set and makes cutting easier—listen for the gentle cracking as they cool.

- Transfer the brownies to a wire rack to cool completely, observing their rich, dark surface and dense texture—this is the perfect moment to prepare spooky decorations or icing.

- Cut the brownies into squares, then decorate with spooky icing, edible eyes, or cobwebs to create your Halloween masterpiece—have fun bringing your creepy creations to life!

Notes
Ensure brownies are fully cooled before decorating to prevent melting. Adjust baking time for a fudgier or cakier texture as desired.
