Brownies are one of those universally loved desserts—fudgy, cakey, warm from the oven, or topped with ice cream, they rarely disappoint. But for those who believe the crispy edges are the best part, there’s an even better option: Crispy Chocolatey Brownie Brittle.
Brownie brittle takes everything we love about classic brownies and transforms it into a thin, crunchy, deeply chocolatey treat. Instead of soft centers, every bite delivers a crisp snap, rich cocoa flavor, and indulgent sweetness. Inspired by the beloved corner pieces of a brownie pan, this recipe is designed for anyone who prefers crunch over gooeyness—though even center-piece loyalists may find themselves converted.
Originally developed by Katie Rosenhouse for tacoscaliforniagrill, this brownie brittle proves that crisp doesn’t mean dry or boring. Thanks to smart ingredient choices and technique, the final result is just as decadent as a traditional brownie—only lighter, crunchier, and dangerously snackable.
What Exactly Is Brownie Brittle?
Brownie brittle is essentially brownie batter baked very thin in a sheet pan, then broken into shards once cooled. By spreading the batter across a wide surface area, more of it is exposed to oven heat, which allows moisture to evaporate evenly and creates a crisp texture throughout.
Instead of dense fudginess, you get:
- Crisp edges everywhere
- Light, airy structure
- Deep chocolate flavor
- A satisfying snap with each bite
Think of it as the love child between brownies and chocolate bark.
Why This Recipe Works So Well
This brownie brittle recipe isn’t just a thinner brownie—it’s carefully engineered for crunch and flavor.
Key Techniques That Make the Difference
Whipped Egg Whites Instead of Whole Eggs
Instead of using whole eggs, this recipe relies on whipped egg whites folded with sugar. This creates a lighter structure that crisps beautifully during baking.
Dark Chocolate + Cocoa Powder
Using both melted dark chocolate and cocoa powder ensures intense chocolate flavor. Optional espresso powder further amplifies the richness without tasting like coffee.
Thin, Even Baking Layer
Spreading the batter evenly in a rimmed sheet pan guarantees uniform crispness from edge to edge.
The result? A brittle that’s crunchy, indulgent, and never bland.
Flavor & Texture Profile
Don’t let the word “brittle” fool you—this treat is anything but dry.
- Texture: Crisp, snappy, and light with delicate crunch
- Flavor: Deeply chocolatey with subtle bitterness and sweetness
- Finish: Rich, indulgent, and satisfying without heaviness
Optional toppings like flaky sea salt, chocolate chips, or nuts add contrast and elevate the overall experience.
Ingredients Overview
Core Ingredients
- Unsalted butter
- Dark chocolate (or chocolate chips)
- Egg whites
- Granulated sugar
- Unsweetened cocoa powder
- Instant espresso powder (optional)
- Kosher salt
- All-purpose flour
- Baking powder
Optional Add-Ins & Toppings
- Chocolate chips (milk, dark, or white)
- Chopped walnuts or pecans
- Flaky sea salt
Crispy Chocolatey Brownie Brittle Recipe
Prep & Bake Details
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Bake Time: 20–25 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Servings: 12
- Course: Dessert / Snack
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Step 2: Prepare the Baking Sheet
Coat a rimmed baking sheet with cooking spray and line it with parchment paper. Set aside.
Step 3: Melt the Butter
In a small saucepan, melt the butter over low heat.
Step 4: Add the Chocolate
Remove from heat. Add chopped dark chocolate and stir until smooth and fully melted.
Step 5: Whip the Egg Whites
In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with a whisk attachment, whip the egg whites until soft peaks form.
Step 6: Add Sugar to Egg Whites
Gradually sprinkle in ¼ cup of granulated sugar and continue whipping until medium peaks form.
Step 7: Build the Chocolate Base
Stir the remaining ¾ cup sugar, cocoa powder, espresso powder, and salt into the melted chocolate mixture until smooth.
Step 8: Fold Chocolate into Egg Whites
Gently fold the chocolate mixture into the whipped egg whites, stopping while slightly streaky to maintain airiness.
Step 9: Add Dry Ingredients
Add flour and baking powder. Fold gently just until incorporated.
Step 10: Spread the Batter
Pour the batter into the prepared baking sheet and spread evenly into a thin layer.
Step 11: Add Toppings (Optional)
Sprinkle chocolate chips, chopped nuts, and flaky sea salt over the surface if desired.
Step 12: Bake
Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the surface is firm and set.
Step 13: Cool and Break
Allow to cool on the baking sheet for at least 15 minutes, then break into irregular shards.
Step 14: Serve or Store
Enjoy immediately, or store for later snacking.
Nutrition Snapshot (Per Serving – Approx.)
- Calories: 195
- Total Fat: 9.9 g
- Saturated Fat: 5.9 g
- Carbohydrates: 25.3 g
- Sugar: 19 g
- Protein: 2 g
- Sodium: 98 mg
Nutrition values are estimates and may vary.
How to Store Brownie Brittle
One of the best things about brownie brittle is how well it keeps.
Room Temperature
Store in an airtight container or zip-top bag in a cool, dry place for up to 7 days.
Freezer Storage
For longer storage, freeze in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving—it will regain its crisp texture beautifully.
Easy Ways to Customize Brownie Brittle
Once you master the base recipe, the variations are endless.
Flavor Boosts
- Peppermint or orange extract
- Citrus zest (orange or lemon)
- Cinnamon or cayenne for warmth
Indulgent Swirls
- Peanut butter
- Nutella
- Dulce de leche
Fun Mix-Ins
- Mini M&M’s
- Toffee bits
- Dried cherries or cranberries
- Shredded coconut
Finishing Touches
- Drizzle with melted chocolate
- Festive sprinkles
- Extra flaky sea salt
Brownie brittle is incredibly forgiving and fun to experiment with.
When to Serve Brownie Brittle
This crispy treat shines in many settings:
- Movie nights
- Coffee breaks
- Dessert boards
- Gift tins
- Ice cream toppers
- Party snack bowls
It’s casual enough for everyday snacking and elegant enough for entertaining.
Final Thoughts
Crispy Chocolatey Brownie Brittle is proof that brownies don’t always need to be soft and gooey to be indulgent. Thin, crunchy, and deeply chocolatey, it captures the magic of brownie edges and turns it into a treat you can enjoy bite after bite.
Whether you’re an edge-lover, a texture enthusiast, or just someone who enjoys bold chocolate flavor, this brownie brittle deserves a place in your dessert rotation.