Brownies from scratch. What a glorious concept. We’ll get around to it when we finally join that CSA, learn how to knit and clean under the fridge. Until then, here’s a two-second trick to make brownies from a box taste like the real thing.
What you need: Brownie mix, eggs, vegetable oil, 1 tablespoon chili powder and 1 tablespoon cinnamon.
What you do: Make the brownie batter according to the package directions, then stir in the cinnamon and chili powder before pouring into the pan and baking as usual.
Why it works: The spices add a peppery sweetness that blends perfectly with the chocolate and creates a whole new depth of flavor. Your brownie taste testers won’t be able to put their finger on the exact ingredients, but there’s one thing they’ll know for sure—it tastes fancy (and decidedly not from a box). Save us a corner piece.
