Hot Fudge Brownie Bread

There’s nothing quite like the warm, gooey decadence of chocolate to soothe the soul. Enter Hot Fudge Brownie Bread: a luscious fusion of a rich chocolate brownie and the comforting texture of bread. Imagine the slightly crispy edges of a brownie married to the soft, cake-like interior of freshly baked bread, with swirls of hot fudge creating pockets of molten chocolate bliss. This is not just dessert—this is a chocolate lover’s dream!

Perfect for a cozy night in, a sweet breakfast indulgence, or a show-stopping dessert for guests, this recipe is versatile and irresistibly delightful. With just a handful of pantry staples, you can whip up this masterpiece in no time.

Ingredients

Brownie Bread:

• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled
• 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
• 1 cup light brown sugar, packed
• 4 large eggs, at room temperature
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• ¾ cup cocoa powder (unsweetened, high-quality recommended)
• ½ teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips

Hot Fudge Swirl:

• ½ cup store-bought or homemade hot fudge sauce, warmed for easy spreading
• Optional: Chopped nuts (walnuts, pecans) or mini marshmallows for added texture

Instructions

1: Preheat and Prepare the Pan

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Grease a standard loaf pan (9×5 inches) generously with nonstick spray or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.

2: Make the Brownie Batter

1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the melted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until smooth and creamy.
2. Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
3. In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, being careful not to overmix.
4. Gently stir in the chocolate chips for bursts of chocolatey goodness.

3: Assemble the Bread

1. Pour half of the brownie batter into the prepared loaf pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
2. Drizzle half of the hot fudge sauce over the batter. Use a knife to swirl the fudge into the batter, creating a marbled effect.
3. Repeat with the remaining batter and hot fudge sauce, ensuring the top has beautiful swirls of fudge.

4: Bake

1. Place the loaf pan in the oven and bake for 50–60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with moist crumbs (not wet batter).
2. Remove from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 15–20 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Tips

1. Quality Matters: Use high-quality cocoa powder and chocolate chips for the best flavor.
2. Avoid Overmixing: Overmixing can lead to a dense, tough texture. Mix just until the ingredients are combined.
3. Monitor Baking Time: Brownie bread is meant to be moist, so don’t overbake. Start checking at the 50-minute mark.
4. Warm Fudge Sauce: If your hot fudge sauce is too thick, microwave it for 10–15 seconds to make it easier to swirl.

Storage Instructions

• Room Temperature: Store leftover brownie bread in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Refrigerator: Extend its freshness by refrigerating it for up to 1 week. Bring to room temperature or microwave slices for 10–15 seconds before serving.
• Freezer: Wrap the loaf (or individual slices) in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator.

Variations

1. Peanut Butter Brownie Bread: Swirl in peanut butter alongside the fudge for a sweet and salty combo.
2. S’mores Style: Add a layer of crushed graham crackers and mini marshmallows to the batter for a campfire-inspired treat.
3. Mint Chocolate: Stir in a handful of crushed peppermint candies or a teaspoon of peppermint extract.
4. Gluten-Free: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free 1:1 baking flour.
5. Nutty Delight: Fold in chopped walnuts or pecans for extra crunch.

Nutrition Details

Note: Nutritional values are approximate and will vary based on brands and modifications.

FAQ

Can I make this recipe without hot fudge sauce?

Yes! While the hot fudge adds an indulgent swirl, you can substitute it with melted chocolate or leave it out for a simpler brownie bread.

What if I don’t have a loaf pan?

You can use an 8×8-inch square pan. The baking time will likely be shorter, so start checking around the 40-minute mark.

Can I add other mix-ins?

Absolutely! White chocolate chips, caramel bits, or dried fruit like cherries are all fantastic options.

How do I know when the bread is done?

Look for slightly crispy edges and a toothpick inserted into the center to come out with moist crumbs—not wet batter.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, Hot Fudge Brownie Bread stores well and can be made a day or two in advance. Reheat slices for a fresh-from-the-oven experience.