Brownie Bread Recipe

Imagine sinking your teeth into a delightfully rich and fudgy treat that is part brownie, part bread, and all kinds of delicious—this is the beauty of Brownie Bread. It’s a wonderfully moist loaf that carries the same deep cocoa flavor and tender crumb of a classic brownie but baked in a loaf form that makes slicing and sharing oh so easy. Whether you’re craving a comforting afternoon snack or want to wow your friends with something uniquely indulgent, Brownie Bread is an absolute must-try that’s as versatile as it is irresistible.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The ingredients for this Brownie Bread are simple, everyday pantry staples that come together to create a moist, flavorful loaf packed with just the right balance of sweetness, richness, and texture. Each ingredient plays its part perfectly—from the cocoa powder lending that unmistakable chocolate punch to the buttermilk adding tenderness and subtle tang that elevates the overall flavor.

• ½ cup mild vegetable oil: Provides moisture and a tender crumb without overpowering the cocoa flavor.
• ¾ cup sugar: Balances out the cocoa’s bittersweet notes and adds the perfect level of sweetness.
• 2 large eggs: Bind ingredients together and contribute to the smooth, dense texture.
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract: Enhances the chocolate flavor with warm, aromatic depth.
• 1 tablespoon espresso powder (optional): Intensifies the chocolate notes for a deeper, richer profile.
• ¾ cup buttermilk: Adds moisture and a subtle tang that keeps the bread tender and flavorful.
• ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder: The star ingredient that gives the bread its luscious chocolate color and taste.
• ½ teaspoon salt: Balances sweetness and enhances the overall flavor.
• ½ teaspoon baking soda: Helps with a slight lift, keeping the texture light yet fudgy.
• 1 cup all-purpose flour: Provides structure for the loaf while keeping it tender.
• 1 cup chopped walnuts: Adds crunch and a nutty note; reserve 2 tablespoons for topping.

How to Make Brownie Bread

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Pan

Start by preheating your oven to 165°C (325°F). Prepare a standard 23x13cm (9×5 inch) loaf pan by spraying it with a non-stick spray. Next, line the pan with baking paper, leaving the ends hanging over the sides—they’ll act as handles to easily lift out your Brownie Bread once it’s baked and cooled. This simple prep step ensures your loaf will come out cleanly and in perfect shape.

Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the vegetable oil, sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, and the optional espresso powder until everything is thoroughly combined and slightly glossy. Then, add the buttermilk and give it another good whisk. This mixture is where the moisture and rich flavor begin to build, setting the foundation for your brownie bread to be satisfyingly tender.

Step 3: Combine the Dry Ingredients

Whisk the cocoa powder, salt, and baking soda into the wet mixture until smooth—this quick step blends the flavors and activates the leavening. Then, gently fold in the all-purpose flour using a spoon or spatula. Be careful not to overmix here; just combine until you no longer see dry streaks. Keeping the batter slightly lumpy will help maintain that fudgy texture we all crave in Brownie Bread.

Step 4: Fold in the Walnuts

Coarsely chop the walnuts, reserving 2 tablespoons for topping. Fold the bulk of the nuts gently into the batter, distributing them evenly without deflating the mixture. The walnuts add a wonderful crunch and earthy flavor that beautifully contrasts the soft, chocolatey loaf.

Step 5: Bake Your Brownie Bread

Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan. It will be quite thin, almost like a thick chocolate sauce. Sprinkle the reserved chopped walnuts over the top for a delightful crunchy finish. Place your pan in the oven and bake for 45 to 50 minutes. To check for doneness, insert a toothpick in the center—the key is to remove it when it comes out without wet batter, though fudgy crumbs are perfect and part of the charm of this loaf.

Step 6: Cool and Remove from Pan

Once baked, allow your Brownie Bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, use the overhanging parchment paper to lift the loaf gently out onto a cooling rack. Cooling helps it set up to the perfect sliceable consistency, but trust me—sneaking a warm piece while it’s still soft is incredibly tempting.

Step 7: Slice and Enjoy

When it’s ready, slice your Brownie Bread using a sharp serrated knife with a gentle sawing motion. This will keep your slices clean and neat, showcasing the wonderfully fudgy interior studded with crunchy walnuts.

How to Serve Brownie Bread

Garnishes

Serving Brownie Bread can be as simple or decadent as you like. Consider a light dusting of powdered sugar for a pretty touch. For extra indulgence, drizzle melted chocolate or spread a layer of creamy Nutella. A scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side takes this treat to an extraordinary level of comfort dessert. Fresh berries or a dollop of whipped cream can brighten the plate and provide balance to the richness.

Side Dishes

Brownie Bread shines on its own but pairs wonderfully with a hot cup of coffee, tea, or even a cold glass of milk. For brunch, serve it alongside fresh fruit, yogurt, or a simple green salad to keep things light and refreshing. It also works well as a sweet ending to a meal, especially paired with a cup of espresso or dark roast coffee that echoes the espresso tones in the bread.

Creative Ways to Present

For special occasions, slice your Brownie Bread thinly and toast the pieces lightly, then top with mascarpone cheese and a drizzle of honey for an elegant twist. You can also cube leftover Brownie Bread and transform it into a dessert bread pudding or trifle mixed with layers of cream and fruit—turning leftovers into another show-stopping treat. Sharing Brownie Bread in a rustic wooden basket with parchment adds a warm, homemade feeling that’s perfect for gatherings.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After enjoying a few slices fresh, wrap the rest of your Brownie Bread tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container at room temperature. It stays moist and delicious for 2 to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, refrigeration is an option but be sure to bring it back to room temperature before serving to revive its tender texture.

Freezing

Brownie Bread freezes beautifully! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then place it in a freezer bag or airtight container. It can be frozen for up to 2 months without losing flavor or texture. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge or at room temperature to enjoy that freshly baked taste anytime.

Reheating

If you like your Brownie Bread warm, gently reheat slices in the microwave for about 15 to 20 seconds or pop them in a toaster oven for a minute to bring back that just-baked softness with a little crisp edge. Reheating enhances the cocoa aroma and makes it even more comforting.

FAQs

Can I use regular milk instead of buttermilk?

Yes, you can substitute regular milk mixed with a tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar to mimic buttermilk’s acidity, which helps tenderize and add a slight tang to your Brownie Bread.

What if I don’t have espresso powder?

Espresso powder is optional but recommended for deepening the chocolate flavor. If you don’t have it, simply skip it—the Brownie Bread will still be deliciously chocolatey.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! Using a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend that includes xanthan gum should work well, but keep an eye on baking time as gluten-free batters can vary.

How do I know when the Brownie Bread is done?

Insert a toothpick in the center; if it comes out without wet batter (fudgy crumbs are fine), it’s done. The loaf will still be moist but set enough to slice cleanly.

Can I replace walnuts with other nuts or add-ins?

Definitely! Pecans, hazelnuts, or even chocolate chips are excellent alternatives. Just be mindful of the quantity so it doesn’t affect the batter’s consistency.

Final Thoughts

Brownie Bread is one of those delightful surprises that feels both familiar and new. Its fudgy, chocolatey richness wrapped in a sliceable loaf makes it perfect for every occasion, from cozy afternoons to celebrations. Once you try this recipe, I’m confident it will become a beloved staple in your kitchen too—ready to share or savor all to yourself whenever a chocolate craving calls.

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