Ina Garten’s Brownie Pudding: Decadent, Rich, and Irresistibly Chocolatey

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Ina Garten’s Brownie Pudding is the ultimate dessert for chocolate lovers who cannot decide between a fudgy brownie and a comforting pudding. This recipe delivers the best of both worlds, with a crisp, crackly top and a soft, molten center that feels indulgent without being overly complicated. I love this dessert because it feels luxurious yet approachable, exactly the kind of recipe you would expect from Ina Garten. I have served it at dinner parties and casual family gatherings, and it always earns enthusiastic reactions. What makes it special is its texture contrast: slightly crisp around the edges, deeply chocolatey and spoonable in the middle. It is the kind of dessert best enjoyed warm, ideally with a simple accompaniment like whipped cream or vanilla ice cream. This brownie pudding feels timeless, comforting, and unapologetically rich.

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Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Bittersweet chocolate
Bittersweet chocolate forms the backbone of this dessert. It provides deep chocolate flavor without excessive sweetness, which keeps the pudding well balanced.

Unsalted butter
Butter adds richness and ensures a smooth, luxurious texture. It also helps create the glossy finish on top.

Eggs
Eggs are essential for structure and texture. They help set the pudding while keeping the center soft and custard-like.

Granulated sugar
Sugar sweetens the dessert and contributes to the slightly crisp top layer that contrasts with the soft interior.

Vanilla extract
Vanilla enhances the chocolate flavor and rounds out the overall taste.

All-purpose flour
Flour provides just enough structure to hold the pudding together without turning it into a firm cake.

Salt
Salt balances the sweetness and intensifies the chocolate flavor.

Directions

Preheat the oven to 160°C and generously butter a baking dish. Melt the chocolate and butter together gently until smooth, then allow the mixture to cool slightly. In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs and sugar until combined, then stir in the vanilla extract. Gradually add the melted chocolate mixture, mixing until smooth. Fold in the flour and salt just until incorporated. Pour the batter into the prepared dish and smooth the top. Bake until the edges are set but the center remains soft and slightly wobbly. Allow the pudding to cool briefly before serving warm.

Equipment needed

Must-Have Tools to Get Rolling

Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:

Silicone Spatula – Durable, heat-resistant silicone spatula perfect for mixing, scraping, and spreading. Gentle on non-stick cookware and easy to clean.

Large pot – You’ll need this to boil the whole cabbage head and soften the leaves.

large bowl –Spacious, durable large bowl ideal for mixing, serving, or food preparation. Made from sturdy material and easy to clean.

Sharp knife – For coring the cabbage and slicing out the thick stem in each leaf. A paring knife works best.

Mixing bowl – A big bowl makes it easier to combine your meat and rice filling evenly.

Cutting board – For prepping cabbage leaves and rolling them like a pro.

9×13-inch baking dish – Ideal size to fit your rolled cabbage leaves snugly and prevent them from unraveling.

knife – A sharp, durable kitchen knife perfect for slicing, chopping, and dicing with ease.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves six to eight people. Preparation takes approximately 15 minutes, with a baking time of about 40 to 45 minutes.

Storage/reheating

Store leftover brownie pudding covered in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave until just warmed through, taking care not to overcook.

Variations and Customizations

Extra Fudgy Version
Reduce the baking time slightly for a softer center.

Espresso Brownie Pudding
Add a small amount of espresso powder to deepen the chocolate flavor.

Nutty Twist
Fold in chopped walnuts or pecans for added texture.

Orange Chocolate Pudding
Add orange zest for a subtle citrus note.

Individual Servings
Bake the pudding in ramekins for elegant presentation.

FAQs

Is this the same as a brownie?

It is softer and more pudding-like than a traditional brownie.

Should it be gooey in the center?

Yes, the center should remain soft and spoonable.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, but it is best served warm.

What chocolate works best?

High-quality bittersweet chocolate is ideal.

Can I use semisweet chocolate?

Yes, though the dessert will be slightly sweeter.

How do I know it is done?

The edges should be set while the center is still soft.

Can I freeze brownie pudding?

Freezing is not recommended due to texture changes.

What should I serve with it?

Vanilla ice cream or whipped cream pairs beautifully.

Is this dessert very sweet?

It is rich but well balanced.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, use a larger baking dish and adjust baking time.

Conclusion

Ina Garten’s Brownie Pudding is a timeless dessert that showcases the beauty of simple ingredients and careful technique. With its rich chocolate flavor, contrasting textures, and comforting warmth, it is a recipe worth returning to whenever you want a truly memorable chocolate dessert.

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