Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) and line an 8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal.

- Chop the dark chocolate into small pieces and melt it together with the butter in a saucepan over gentle heat, stirring until smooth and glossy. The aroma of rich chocolate will fill your kitchen as it melts.

- In a large bowl, whisk the eggs and sugar together until the mixture becomes slightly frothy and pale, about 2-3 minutes. This helps incorporate air for a tender crumb.

- Pour the melted chocolate and butter mixture into the egg mixture, gently folding until well combined and smooth, releasing a rich chocolate scent.

- Stir in the vanilla extract if using, then sift the flour over the batter and fold it in gently until just incorporated, avoiding overmixing to keep the brownies tender.

- Pour the batter into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula. The batter should be thick but spreadable, with a glossy finish.

- Sprinkle a handful of crushed cookies evenly over the top, pressing them slightly into the batter to ensure they stick during baking and add that nostalgic crunch.

- Bake the brownies for about 25-30 minutes, until the edges are set and slightly crackly, but the center still jiggles when gently shaken. The house will fill with a deep chocolate aroma.

- Remove the pan from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 15 minutes. This helps the brownies set and develop their chewy, gooey texture.

- Transfer the brownies to a wire rack using the parchment overhang and allow them to cool completely. As they cool, the crackly top will become firm, contrasting with the soft interior.

- Slice into squares and enjoy the perfect balance of crispy top and gooey, fudgy center—best served with a glass of milk or your favorite cold beverage.

Notes
For extra fun, decorate the brownies with melted white chocolate or edible eyes to mimic little mummies. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days for optimal freshness.
