Crack Top Fudgy Brownies: 12 Secrets to Perfection

Deliciously rich and fudgy brownies with a crackly top.

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Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
In a medium saucepan over low heat, melt the cubed butter. Remove from heat and stir in the granulated sugar until well combined.
Allow the mixture to cool slightly, then add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the cocoa powder, flour, baking powder, and salt.
Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. If using, fold in the chocolate chips.
Pour the brownie batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly.
Bake in the preheated oven for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs (not wet batter).
Allow the brownies to cool in the pan on a wire rack for about 10–15 minutes before slicing.
Cut into squares or rectangles and serve warm or at room temperature. Optionally, serve with a scoop of ice cream or a drizzle of chocolate sauce.