Mexican Hot Chocolate Brownies with Cinnamon Spice Swirl

Ingredients

• •1 cup unsalted butter
• •2 cups granulated sugar
• •4 large eggs
• •1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• •1 cup all-purpose flour
• •1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• •1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• •1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for spice)
• •1/4 teaspoon salt
• •1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
• •2 teaspoons ground cinnamon (for swirl)
• •2 tablespoons granulated sugar (for swirl)

Instructions

1. 1

   Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking pan and set aside.

2. 2

   In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the butter. Let it cool slightly.

3. 3

   In a large mixing bowl, combine melted butter, granulated sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract. Whisk until smooth.

4. 4

   In another bowl, sift together flour, cocoa powder, 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon, cayenne pepper (if using), and salt.

5. 5

   Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until fully combined. Do not overmix.

6. 6

   Fold in the semi-sweet chocolate chips.

7. 7

   In a small bowl, mix the 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon and 2 tablespoons granulated sugar for the swirl.

8. 8

   Pour half of the brownie batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly.

9. 9

   Sprinkle half of the cinnamon-sugar mixture over the batter.

10. 10

    Pour the remaining batter on top and spread evenly again. Sprinkle the remaining cinnamon-sugar mixture on top.

11. 11

    Use a knife or skewer to gently swirl the cinnamon mixture into the batter, creating a marbled effect.

12. 12

    Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with only a few moist crumbs.

13. 13

    Let the brownies cool completely in the pan before cutting into squares. Serve and enjoy!