1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper or grease it lightly.
2. Mix Wet Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together melted butter, sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
3. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, sift together cocoa powder, flour, salt, and baking powder. Gradually fold this into the wet mixture until just combined.
4. Add Optional Mix-ins: If using, fold in chocolate chips or nuts for extra texture and flavor.
5. Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with moist crumbs (not wet batter).
6. Cool and Serve: Allow the brownies to cool in the pan before slicing into squares. Enjoy the decadent, fudgy goodness!
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Bake Time: 20-25 minutes | Servings: 9-12
