The Chocolate Add-Ins Paul Hollywood Uses For Better Brownies

Paul Hollywood is practically baking royalty. Known as the silver-haired, sharp-tongued judge on "The Great British Bake Off," his credentials speak for themselves. From crafting flawless bread to critiquing showstopper bakes, Hollywood's expertise has made him a trusted source for bakers everywhere. If there's anyone who can elevate your brownies from good to unforgettable, it's Paul Hollywood. And guess what? He shared a simple but game-changing tip for your brownie batter on his website: Adding chocolate chunks and cocoa nibs.

Why do we trust him? Hollywood's recipes are known for their precision and flavor, striking the perfect balance between indulgence and technique. Adding chocolate chunks and cocoa nibs might sound straightforward, but in Hollywood's hands, it's a move that transforms the humble brownie into a chocolate lover's dream. While other options, like store-bought mixes, deliver a quick fix (and we've got opinions on the best ones), Hollywood's method promises a next-level experience. If you want to go above and beyond, you can even use this egg trick to take your version of Hollywood's brownies to the stratosphere.

Ready to learn how he does it? Let's dig into the details.

What sets Paul Hollywood's brownies apart isn't just the rich chocolate flavor, it's the texture and depth he achieves with his add-ins. Instead of relying solely on cocoa powder, Hollywood incorporates chocolate chunks, which melt into gooey pockets throughout the batter. These chunks add a luscious richness to each bite, creating a brownie that feels decadent without being overly sweet. As for the cocoa nibs, they bring a delightful crunch and hint of bitterness that balances the overall sweetness. The result? A brownie with layers of flavor and texture that keeps you coming back for more.

The technique matters, too. Although Hollywood's recipe doesn't specifically emphasize avoiding overmixing the batter, we recommend you do your best to avoid it, as it keeps the brownies tender and avoids a dense, cakey texture. For even more indulgence, serve them warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. While it's tempting to cut corners with store-bought options, Hollywood's approach proves that a little extra effort can deliver extraordinary results.

Feeling adventurous? You can borrow tips from no-bake brownie recipes to which you can add the very same magical ingredients Hollywood does for an entirely different spin. Whether you're team gooey or team chewy, Hollywood's brownies are a masterclass in how the right ingredients can elevate a classic dessert. So grab your chocolate, preheat the oven, and channel your inner "Bake Off" star.