Budget Brownies
I was so proud of this cheap brownie recipe, friends. It’s fudgy, rich, and made with pantry staples - no need for expensive chocolate. The grated pear adds extra moisture and makes them feel a little fancy even though they cost next to nothing. Trust me, this one’s a keeper.
Total cost: approx. $3.50
Servings: 12 slices
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 25–35 minutes
Ingredients
· 3/4 cup cocoa powder
· 3/4 cup boiling water
· 3/4 cup oil (neutral, like canola or sunflower)
· 1 egg
· 1 small pear, grated
· 1 1/2 cups sugar
· 1 1/2 cups plain flour
· 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
· 1/2 teaspoon salt
Method
1. Preheat oven to 170°C (fan). Line a baking tin.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the cocoa powder and boiling water until smooth.
3. Stir in the oil, then whisk in the egg and grated pear.
4. Add the sugar and mix until fully dissolved.
5. Stir in the flour, baking powder, and salt until just combined — don’t overmix.
6. Pour into the prepared tin and bake for 25–35 minutes, until the centre has a slight jiggle.
7. Cool completely in the tin before slicing.
