Palmer House Brownies are a classic dessert that originated at the Palmer House Hotel in Chicago. These brownies are rich, fudgy, and full of chocolate flavor, making them a favorite among chocolate lovers. This recipe stays true to the original, with a few modern twists to enhance the texture and flavor. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just craving a decadent treat, these Palmer House Brownies are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.
Ingredients for Palmer House Brownies
For the Brownies:
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
For the Frosting (Optional):
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- 3 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup confectioners’ sugar
- 2 tablespoons milk
How to Make Palmer House Brownies
Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Pan
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×9-inch baking pan.
- In a small saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Remove from heat and stir in sugar, eggs, and vanilla.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
- In a medium bowl, combine cocoa, flour, salt, and baking powder. Gradually add to the butter mixture, stirring until well blended.
Step 3: Bake the Brownies
- Spread the batter evenly into the prepared pan and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the brownies begin to pull away from the edges of the pan. Do not overbake.
- Remove from oven and let cool on a wire rack.
Step 4: Prepare the Frosting (Optional)
- In a medium bowl, combine softened butter, cocoa, honey, vanilla, confectioners’ sugar, and milk. Beat until smooth and spreadable.
- Frost the cooled brownies and cut into squares.
About the Main Ingredients
Butter
Butter adds richness and flavor to the brownies, giving them a moist and tender texture.
Cocoa Powder
Cocoa powder provides the intense chocolate flavor in these brownies. Use unsweetened cocoa powder for the best results.
Sugar
Granulated sugar sweetens the brownies and helps create a fudgy texture.
Eggs
Eggs help bind the ingredients together and add structure to the brownies.
Flour
All-purpose flour provides structure to the brownies, giving them a chewy texture.
These Palmer House Brownies are a delightful treat that is sure to please chocolate lovers of all ages. Whether you enjoy them plain or with the optional frosting, these brownies are sure to become a favorite in your baking repertoire. Try making a batch today and enjoy the rich, fudgy goodness of Palmer House Brownies.
