Fudge Brownies

In a medium microwave-safe bowl, melt the butter. Stir the granulated sugar into the hot butter until well combined and slightly cooled.

Add the eggs one at a time, whisking vigorously after each addition until the batter looks smooth and glossy. Stir in the vanilla extract.

Sift the cocoa powder, all-purpose flour, and salt directly into the wet ingredients. Gently fold the dry ingredients in using a rubber spatula until just combined, being careful not to overmix.

If using, fold in the chocolate chunks. Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it into an even layer with the spatula.

Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with moist crumbs attached (not wet batter). Let the brownies cool completely in the pan before lifting them out using the parchment overhang and cutting into squares.