1-Getting started: Getting started with this Best Ever Brownies With Frosting recipe is easier than you might think. Begin by preparing your workspace and ingredients to make the process smooth and fun. For a little inspiration, check out our Brownie Swirl Ice Cream Recipe if you want to pair these brownies with a cool twist.

2-First: cut 1/2 cup unsalted butter into pieces for quick melting. Melt it along with two 4-ounce semi-sweet chocolate bars, coarsely chopped, using a microwave in 20-second increments or on the stovetop over low heat, then let it cool for 5 minutes. This step ensures a smooth base for your batter.

3-Next: preheat your oven to 350°F and line a 9-inch square pan with parchment paper. Whisk 3/4 cup granulated sugar and 1/4 cup packed light or dark brown sugar into the melted mixture, then add 3 large eggs and 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract, mixing until combined.

4-Mixing and Baking Steps: Gradually add 2/3 cup all-purpose flour, 2 tablespoons unsweetened natural or dutch-process cocoa powder, and 1/4 teaspoon salt, whisking until no dry spots remain. Fold in 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips to create a semi-thick batter, then pour it evenly into the pan.

5-Bake: Bake for 32-35 minutes, checking at 30 minutes to avoid overbaking the brownies are done when a toothpick shows moist crumbs. After baking, cool in the pan on a wire rack for 1-2 hours. For the frosting, beat 1/2 cup unsalted butter until creamy, then mix in 1 and 1/2 cups confectioners’ sugar, 1/3 cup unsweetened natural or dutch-process cocoa powder, 3 tablespoons slightly warm heavy cream or milk, 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt.

6-Spread: the frosting over the cooled brownies and cut into squares. This method, with its clear steps, works great for students or newlyweds learning to bake.