1-Getting started with small batch brownies: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F and lining an 8×4 or 9×5 loaf pan with parchment paper for easy removal. This step ensures your brownies come out clean and intact.

2-Next: Melt the butter and whisk it together with the granulated sugar and light brown sugar until you get a paste-like consistency that pulls away from the bowl’s sides. Then, whisk in the egg and vanilla extract to bind everything nicely. Add the flour, cocoa powder, and salt, mixing just until combined to keep that fudgy texture. If you’re using chocolate chips, stir them in now.

3-Pour the batter: Pour the batter into your prepared pan, spreading it evenly, and bake for 26 to 36 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the top is crackly and a toothpick inserted in the center shows a few moist crumbs but no wet batter the batter shouldn’t jiggle. Let the brownies cool completely in the pan before slicing to set properly.