*** Brownies for Two

• 4 Tbsp unsalted butter, diced
• 1/2 cup + 1 Tbsp granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 2 Tbsp dark chocolate pieces
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 large egg
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour

PREHEAT THE OVEN TO 325 F and position a rack in the lower third of the oven. Line a 9 x 5 x 3-inch loaf pan with parchment paper.

In a medium-size microwave-safe bowl, combine the butter, sugar, and cocoa powder. 

Microwave on HIGH for 30 seconds. Stir, and microwave for another 30 seconds.Stir the mixture very well, then add the salt and vanilla. Stir for 1 minute to let the mixture cool down.

Add the egg and stir until it’s incorporated. Sprinkle in the flour, and then give the batter about fifty brisk strokes, using a wooden spoon. Normally, we wouldn’t mix batter this long for fear of overworking the flour, but the sugar makes up for it in this recipe. This helps achieve the cracked topping and chewiness.

Spread the batter evenly in the prepared loaf pan. Bake for 18 minutes. A toothpick inserted into the center should have moist crumbs. The surface of the brownies is shiny and dry when done, and will crack as it cools. Let cool completely in the pan, then use the parchment paper to remove the brownies from the pan. 

Slice in half and serve.

Makes 8 servings, 154 calories each.