Mexican brownies, also known as Tres Leches brownies, are a delicious twist on the classic brownie recipe. These brownies are rich, moist, and decadent, with a hint of Mexican flavors. So, what exactly are Mexican brownies made of? Let's dive into the ingredients and preparation process!
1. Chocolate: Mexican brownies start with a base of rich chocolate. You can use either unsweetened baking chocolate or cocoa powder. I personally prefer using high-quality dark chocolate to enhance the depth of flavor.
2. Flour: All-purpose flour is used to give the brownies structure and a chewy texture. It's best to sift the flour to remove any lumps and ensure a smooth batter.
3. Sugar: Granulated sugar is added to sweeten the brownies. You can adjust the amount according to your preference for sweetness.
4. Eggs: Eggs act as a binding agent and add moisture to the brownies. They also contribute to the fudgy texture.
5. Butter: Butter adds richness and flavor to the brownies. It's best to use unsalted butter and melt it before incorporating into the batter.
6. Vanilla Extract: A splash of vanilla extract enhances the overall taste of the brownies. You can use either pure vanilla extract or vanilla bean paste for a more intense flavor.
7. Mexican Spices: To give these brownies their unique Mexican twist, spices like cinnamon, chili powder, and cayenne pepper are added. These spices add warmth and a subtle kick to the brownies. Adjust the amount according to your preference for spiciness.
8. Tres Leches Soaking Mixture: The final touch that sets Mexican brownies apart is the tres leches soaking mixture. Traditionally, tres leches cake is soaked in a mixture of condensed milk, evaporated milk, and heavy cream. For the brownies, you can make a similar soaking mixture by combining condensed milk, evaporated milk, and a splash of rum or Kahlua for added flavor. This mixture is poured over the warm brownies, allowing them to absorb the sweet and creamy goodness.
Now that we've covered the ingredients, let's talk about the preparation process:
1. Preheat your oven to the specified temperature mentioned in the brownie mix instructions.
2. In a large bowl, combine the chocolate (either melted baking chocolate or cocoa powder), flour, sugar, eggs, melted butter, vanilla extract, and Mexican spices. Mix well until all the ingredients are fully incorporated.
3. Grease a baking dish and pour the brownie batter into it, spreading it evenly.
4. Bake the brownies according to the instructions on the box, usually around 25-30 minutes. Be sure not to overbake them to maintain their moist and fudgy texture.
5. While the brownies are baking, prepare the tres leches soaking mixture by combining condensed milk, evaporated milk, and a splash of rum or Kahlua in a separate bowl.
6. Once the brownies are baked and still warm, poke several holes all over the surface using a fork or toothpick. This will allow the soaking mixture to penetrate the brownies.
7. Slowly pour the tres leches soaking mixture over the warm brownies, making sure to cover the entire surface. Let the brownies cool completely in the refrigerator, allowing them to absorb the liquid.
8. Once chilled, cut the brownies into squares and serve. You can garnish them with a sprinkle of cinnamon or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra touch of indulgence.
Mexican brownies are a delightful treat that combines the classic flavors of chocolate with a unique twist of Mexican spices and the creamy goodness of tres leches. They are perfect for any occasion, from casual gatherings to special celebrations. Give this recipe a try, and I'm sure you'll be hooked on these delectable treats!