Transform a boxed brownie mix into bakery-quality treats with these simple hacks! Rich, fudgy brownies with walnuts come together in minutes for the ultimate easy dessert.
Ingredients
118 oz boxGhirardelli Premium Brownie Mix (double chocolate)
Set your oven to 350°F and line an 8x8 metal baking pan with parchment paper. Lightly coat the paper with cooking spray.
In a medium bowl, thoroughly whisk together the milk, melted butter, and eggs until smooth and combined.
Add the brownie mix to the wet ingredients and stir just until no dry streaks remain. Gently fold in the chopped walnuts.
Transfer the batter to your prepared pan, spreading it evenly. Bake for 38-41 minutes until the center is firm and edges separate from the pan sides.
Let cool completely in the pan. Lift the brownies out using the parchment paper, place on a cutting board, and slice into 16 even squares.
Notes
Sandy’s tips:
Choose the right mix: Ghirardelli double chocolate is our top recommendation, but any premium brownie mix will work with these hacks.
Toast your nuts: For extra flavor, toast the walnuts in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3-5 minutes until fragrant. Let them cool before adding to the batter.
Add extra chocolate: Stir in a cup of semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips for even more chocolatey goodness.
Try different nuts: Pecans, hazelnuts, or macadamia nuts make excellent substitutes for walnuts.
Get creative with mix-ins: Try adding caramel bits, peanut butter chips, or even crushed pretzels for sweet-salty contrast.
Storage: Store brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. They also freeze beautifully for up to 3 months.
Variations:
Fudgy caramel swirl: Dollop caramel sauce over the batter before baking and swirl with a knife for a gooey caramel ribbon.
Peppermint bark brownies: Add crushed candy canes to the batter and sprinkle more on top after baking for a festive twist.
Mocha brownies: Dissolve 1 tablespoon of instant espresso powder in the milk before mixing for a rich coffee-chocolate flavor.
Salted fudgy brownies: Sprinkle flaky sea salt over the brownies immediately after removing from the oven for a sweet-salty finish.
Gluten-free option: Use the Ghirardelli gluten-free brownie mix and follow the same hacks for equally delicious results.
Frosted brownies: Top cooled brownies with your favorite chocolate buttercream or cream cheese frosting for an extra-indulgent treat.