To make box brownies taste better and more homemade, consider these expert tips and hacks:

Key Tips to Improve Boxed Brownies

• Use melted butter instead of oil: Butter adds richer flavor and a better texture compared to vegetable oil typically called for on the box

• Replace water with milk or buttermilk: Milk adds fat and flavor, making brownies moister and more decadent

• Add espresso or instant coffee powder: A small amount enhances the chocolate flavor without making the brownies taste like coffee

• Incorporate extra eggs or egg yolks: Adding an additional egg yolk can make brownies fudgier by increasing fat content; more eggs generally make them cakier

• Add vanilla extract: Vanilla adds a subtle depth of flavor that makes boxed brownies taste more homemade

• Mix in chocolate chips or chunks: This adds gooey texture and intensifies chocolate richness

• Add a pinch of salt or flaky sea salt on top: Salt balances sweetness and enhances chocolate flavor, plus flaky salt on top adds a gourmet touch

• Avoid overbaking: Bake just until a toothpick comes out with a few moist crumbs to keep brownies fudgy

• Try swirl-ins or toppings: Swirl peanut butter or Nutella into the batter before baking, or top with caramel sauce or ice cream for extra indulgence

Simple Method Example

1. Preheat oven to 350°F and line an 8x8 pan with parchment.
2. In a bowl, whisk melted butter, eggs (including an extra yolk if desired), vanilla, instant espresso powder, and the brownie mix.
3. Stir in chocolate chips and a pinch of salt.
4. Pour into pan, smooth top, and bake 25-40 minutes depending on recipe and pan size, until just set but still fudgy.
5. Cool completely, then sprinkle flaky salt on top before cutting

By applying these enhancements, your boxed brownies will be richer, moister, and more flavorful—closer to homemade quality without extra effort