Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 cup pitted prunes
- 1/2 cup hot water
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup semisweet chocolate chips
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
Special equipment needed:
- 8x8 inch baking pan
- Parchment paper
- Food processor or blender
- Double boiler or microwave-safe bowl
Step-by-step instructions:
a. Preheat the oven to 350°F. Line an 8x8 inch baking pan with parchment paper.
b. In a food processor or blender, puree the prunes and hot water until smooth.
c. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the melted butter, sugar, cocoa powder, and salt until well combined.
d. Add the pureed prunes, eggs, and vanilla extract to the bowl and mix until smooth.
e. Gradually add the flour to the mixture and stir until just combined.
f. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
g. Let the brownies cool completely in the pan before removing and cutting into squares.
h. In a double boiler or microwave-safe bowl, melt the chocolate chips and heavy cream together until smooth.
i. Dip each brownie square into the melted chocolate mixture and place on a wire rack to set.
Time:
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 25-30 minutes
Total time: 40-45 minutes
5. Temperature:
Preheat the oven to 350°F.
Serving size:
Makes 16 brownie squares.
Nutritional information:
Calories per serving: 210
Total fat: 11g
Saturated fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 40mg
Sodium: 90mg
Total carbohydrates: 28g
Dietary fiber: 2g
Sugars: 20g
Protein: 3g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Prunes: Dates or raisins can be used as a substitute.
- Heavy cream: Half-and-half or milk can be used as a substitute.
Variations:
- Add chopped nuts or shredded coconut to the batter for added texture.
- Use white chocolate or milk chocolate instead of semisweet chocolate for the topping.
- Add a teaspoon of cinnamon or espresso powder to the batter for added flavor.
Tips and tricks:
- Make sure to puree the prunes and hot water until smooth to avoid any chunks in the batter.
- Let the brownies cool completely before cutting into squares to avoid crumbling.
- Use a toothpick to test the doneness of the brownies - it should come out clean when inserted into the center.
Storage instructions:
Store the brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
Microwave the brownies for 10-15 seconds to warm them up before serving.
Presentation ideas:
Arrange the brownie squares on a platter and drizzle with extra melted chocolate. Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top.
Garnishes:
Sprinkle chopped nuts or sea salt on top of the melted chocolate for added flavor.
Pairings:
Serve the brownies with a glass of cold milk or a cup of hot coffee.
Suggested side dishes:
Fresh fruit or a side salad can be served alongside the brownies for a balanced dessert.
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the brownies are too dry, add a tablespoon of milk to the batter.
- If the brownies are too wet, add a tablespoon of flour to the batter.
Food safety advice:
Make sure to wash your hands and any utensils or equipment used in the recipe before and after handling food to avoid contamination.
Food history:
Prunes have been used in baking for centuries, and were a popular ingredient in desserts during the Middle Ages. Chocolate-covered prunes are a classic French confection.
Flavor profiles:
The combination of rich chocolate and sweet prunes creates a decadent and indulgent flavor profile.
Serving suggestions:
Serve the brownies as a dessert at a dinner party or potluck, or enjoy them as a sweet treat with your family at home.
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Taste: Rich, Chocolatey, Fruity, Sweet, Moist