Guinness Brownies

Preparation

1. Step 1

   Heat the oven to 350 degrees. Lightly grease a 9-by-9-inch pan with nonstick spray, and line with parchment paper, leaving about 1½ inches of excess paper on two sides (these will serve as “handles” to help remove the brownies from the pan later).

2. Step 2

   In a medium bowl, whisk the flour, cocoa powder, espresso powder (if using) and salt to combine; set aside.

3. Step 3

   Fill a medium pot with about 2 inches of water, and bring to a simmer over medium-low heat. Place a large bowl on top of the pot, and add the 12 ounces of chocolate and the butter to the bowl. Heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture is fully melted and smooth. Add the sugar and continue to heat, stirring constantly, for 1 minute.

4. Step 4

   Remove the bowl from the heat. Use a whisk to mix in the eggs, one at a time, whisking well until each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Whisk in the vanilla.

5. Step 5

   Whisk in half the flour mixture, then gradually whisk in the stout, mixing just until combined. Add the remaining flour/cocoa mixture and whisk just until combined. Do not overmix.

6. Step 6

   Pour the batter into the prepared pan. Sprinkle the chocolate chips evenly over the surface of the batter, then transfer to the oven and bake until the brownies appear just set in the center, 23 to 30 minutes. They should seem slightly underbaked and will firm up as they cool.

7. Step 7

   Cool completely to room temperature, then transfer to the refrigerator for at least 2 hours. (It’s easier to cut the brownies when they’re chilled.) Use the parchment “handles” to gently lift the brownies out of the pan, and cut into 16 even pieces. Store brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.