Fudgy brownies are usually ready when the edges are set and a toothpick near the center comes out with moist crumbs rather than liquid batter. Let them cool before cutting.
Check visual clues
The top may appear dry and slightly crackled while the middle has a gentle set. A glass or dark pan can affect cooking speed, so begin checking before the recipe’s maximum baking time.

Test in the right spot
Insert a clean toothpick close to the center. Glossy wet batter suggests more baking is needed; a few moist crumbs are common for fudgy styles. Chocolate chips can melt on the tester, so distinguish them from batter.
Cool in the pan
Rest the pan on a safe rack. The interior continues to firm as it cools. Cutting immediately can make brownies appear underdone even when the texture is correct after resting.

Frequently asked questions
Should a toothpick come out completely clean?
Not always for fudgy brownies. A perfectly clean pick may indicate a drier, more cakey result depending on the recipe.
Related: why bloom cocoa powder in melted butter.


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