Incredible Brownies

These brownies were one of the best that I have ever made. They were so rich and very moist and ever so chocolately. I made them awhile ago and I know I haven't posted any baking delights of late, so I will make two posts today. Again, I know everyone has a preference for the "perfect brownie," but I happen to really like these. The cake flour makes them a little lighter and not quite as dense but still moist.

Brownies

1 c pecans or walnuts, chopped (optional)

1 1/4 c cake flour

1/2 tsp salt

1/4 tsp baking powder

6 ounces unsweetened chocolate, chopped fine

12 Tbls butter, cut into 1 inch pieces

2 1/4 c sugar

4 large eggs

1 Tbls vanilla extract

Preheat oven to 325F. Line a 9x13 inch baking pan with foil and let it hang over the edges. (This makes for an easy lift out of the pan and then you can cut the brownies outside of the pan).

Spray foil-lined pan with non-stick cooking spray.

If using nuts, spread nuts evenly on rimmed baking sheet and toast in oven until fragrant, about 5 to 8 minutes. Set aside to cool.

Whisk to combine flour, salt, and baking powder in medium bowl; set aside.

Melt chocolate and butter in a alarge heat proof bowl set over a saucepan of almost-simmering water, stirring cooasionally until smooth OR place the bowl in the microwave, heat butter and chocolate on high for 45 seconds, then stir and heat for 30 more seconds. Stir and repeat in 15 second increments until mixture is completely smooth.

Gradually whisk in sugar to the chocolate mixture. Add eggs one at a time, whisking after each addition. Whisk in vanilla. Add flour mixture in three additions, folding with a rubber spatula until batter is completely smooth and incorporated.

Transfer batter to prepared pan; using spatula, spread batter into corners of pand and smooth surface. Sprinkle toasted nuts (if using) evenly over batter and bake until toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs, 30-35 minutes. Cool on wire rack to room temperature, about 2 hours, then remove brownies from pan by lifting foil overhang. Cut brownies into 2-inch squares and serve.