Brownies have been an iconic part of dessert culture for generations, but the humble fudgy square has seen quite a transformation over the years! From simple two-ingredient recipes to extravagant creations topped with fresh fruit and indulgent ganache, join us as we explore the history of brownie cakes - from their modest beginnings to their current status as a modern-day treat.
What is a Brownie Cake?
A brownie cake is a type of cake that is made with brownie mix. It is often decorated with frosting, sprinkles, and other toppings. Brownie cakes are typically served at birthday parties, potlucks, and other special events.
Origins of the Brownie Cake
It is thought to have originated in America, though its exact origins are unknown. The first recorded recipe for a brownie cake was in an 1886 issue of the Boston Cooking School Magazine of Domestic Science. This recipe called for a chocolate cake to be baked in a square pan and then cut into small squares.
The first brownie cake was created in the early 1900s. According to legend, a Boston chef named George Clifford Freaner was experimenting with chocolate cake recipes when he accidentally added too much baking soda to the batter. The resulting cake was dry and crumbly, but Freaner decided to give it a try anyway. He baked the cake and then frosted it with chocolate icing. The cake was an instant hit with his customers, and soon brownie cakes were being made all over the country.
Over the years, brownie cake has evolved into many different forms. Today, you can find brownie cakes that are fudgy or cake-like, loaded with nuts, or frosted with icing. No matter what form they take, brownie cakes are always rich, chocolatey, and delicious!
Evolution of the Brownie Cake Through Different Cuisines
The first brownies were created in the late 19th century in the United States. They were originally made with chocolate and nuts and were intended to be a type of cake. However, they quickly became popular as a type of cookie, due to their fudgy texture and rich flavor.
Brownies have since been adopted by different cultures around the world. In France, they are often made with almond flour and are known as "boules de chocolat". In Brazil, they are made with coconut and are called "brigadeiros". In Mexico, they are often made with cajeta, a type of goat's milk caramel.
No matter what form they take, brownies remain a delicious treat that is enjoyed by people all over the world.
Delicious Recipes for Brownie Cakes
There are few desserts as classic and beloved as brownie cakes. For generations, home cooks have been whipping up these fudgy treats using nothing more than a box of mix and a pan. But the humble brownie has come a long way since its inception, evolving into an array of over-the-top creations that are worthy of any special occasion.
Whether you're looking for a classic brownie recipe or something new to try, we've got you covered. Here
Ingredients
- 175g unsalted butter, plus extra for greasing
- 225g Linoui dark chocolate
- 200g caster sugar
- 3 medium eggs, separated
- 65g plain flour
Step 1
Turn the oven on to 180C and preheat for 15 minutes and butter a 20-25cm cake tin. Line it with greaseproof/butter paper before filling it with the ingredients.
Step 2
In a heavy-based pan, combine Linoui chocolate, butter, and sugar. Heat it over a gentle flame and stir occasionally until melted. Once done, remove it from the heat and let it cool.
Step 3
Whisk the egg yolks into the chocolate blend, mixing in the flour and leftover chocolate.
Step 4
Beat the egg whites until they reach soft peaks, then carefully fold them into the chocolate blend.
Step 5
Pour the cake mixture into the greased and prepped tin and place it in the center of the oven and bake for approximately 35-40 minutes until the top is crisp. Once cooked, let cool, and then slice around the edges. Sprinkle with icing sugar and enjoy.
Wrapping Up – How to Store and Serve Brownie Cakes
Assuming you've already prepared your brownie cake according to your recipe of choice, there are a few final tips to keep in mind when it comes to storing and serving your creation.
First, let your brownie cake cool completely before attempting to cut or serve it. If you're in a hurry, you can pop it in the fridge or freezer for a bit – just be sure to wrap it tightly first.
Once cooled, use a sharp knife to neatly slice the brownie cake into squares or triangles. If you're serving immediately, dust with powdered sugar or top with your favorite frosting. Brownie cakes can be stored at room temperature in an airtight container for up to a week – though they're usually best eaten within the first few days.
And if this seems exhausting and you simply want to sit back and enjoy a fine, rich and moist brownie cake, we have you covered. Order Brownie Cake from Linoui. It is a rich, chocolatey treat that you won't want to miss.