Few desserts can rival the irresistible charm of Picnic Brownies with Chocolate Chips and Walnuts — a treat that combines rich chocolate flavor, chewy texture, and the satisfying crunch of toasted nuts. These brownies are everything a perfect picnic dessert should be: easy to transport, crowd-pleasing, and decadently delicious.
This recipe delivers that classic homemade brownie goodness with an elevated twist. The chocolate chips add gooey richness, while the walnuts lend balance and a nutty depth that perfectly complements the chocolate. It’s a nostalgic yet timeless dessert — one that never goes out of style.
Why I Love This Recipe
I love this recipe because it captures everything I adore about homemade baking — simplicity, aroma, and comfort. The combination of real melted chocolate, buttery richness, and crunchy walnuts gives every bite a luxurious texture. The brownies stay moist for days, making them perfect for packing up and taking on-the-go.
What truly makes these brownies special is their versatility. They’re delicious served warm with ice cream, chilled from the fridge for a chewy texture, or at room temperature during an outdoor picnic. Plus, the preparation is straightforward — no fancy techniques required, just pure, honest chocolate indulgence.
Why It’s a Must-Try Dish
- Fudgy, Rich Texture: Deep chocolate flavor balanced by crunchy walnuts and gooey chips.
- Perfect for Sharing: Ideal finger food for picnics, parties, or snack boxes.
- Simple, Classic, Foolproof: Easy recipe that always turns out beautifully.
- Travel-Friendly: No frosting needed — easy to pack, slice, and serve.
- Timeless Appeal: Loved by both kids and adults, a guaranteed hit every time.
If you’re looking for a dessert that’s simple to make, easy to carry, and impossible to resist — this is it!
Recipe Details
- Preparation Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Servings: 12 brownies
- Calories: ~250 kcal per serving
- Course: Dessert / Snack
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients:
- ¾ cup all-purpose flour
- ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients:
- ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup brown sugar (for added chewiness)
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Mix-ins:
- ¾ cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- ½ cup chopped walnuts (plus extra for topping, optional)
Optional for Serving:
- Powdered sugar (for dusting)
- Vanilla ice cream or whipped cream
Cooking Directions
Step-by-Step Preparation Method
Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Pan
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Line an 8×8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it with butter.
- Leave a little parchment overhang on two sides for easy brownie removal.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
- In a medium bowl, sift together flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.
- Whisk gently to combine and set aside.
Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together melted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until smooth and glossy.
- Add eggs one at a time, whisking after each addition.
- Stir in vanilla extract for aroma and depth.
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
- Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture using a spatula — do not overmix.
- Once mostly combined, fold in chocolate chips and chopped walnuts.
Step 5: Pour and Bake
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly.
- Optionally, sprinkle a few extra chocolate chips or walnuts on top for texture.
- Bake for 28–32 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with moist crumbs (not wet batter).
Step 6: Cool and Slice
- Allow brownies to cool completely in the pan before slicing.
- Use the parchment overhang to lift them out easily.
- Cut into squares or rectangles and dust lightly with powdered sugar if desired.
How to Serve
- Serve brownies at room temperature for classic fudginess or slightly chilled for a dense, chewy texture.
- Pair with a scoop of vanilla or salted caramel ice cream for a dessert-worthy treat.
- Great for picnics, lunchboxes, potlucks, or tea-time.
- Wrap individually in parchment paper for a travel-friendly snack.
Recipe Tips
- Don’t overbake: For perfect fudgy brownies, pull them out when the center is just set — they’ll firm up as they cool.
- Use quality cocoa: The flavor of your brownies depends on your cocoa, so choose a rich, dark variety.
- Add espresso powder: A teaspoon of instant espresso enhances the chocolate flavor beautifully.
- Toasting walnuts: Toast them lightly before mixing — it adds a deeper nutty flavor.
- Cool completely: Cutting while warm will cause crumbly edges; patience pays off!
Recipe Variations
- Double Chocolate Brownies:
Add extra chunks of dark chocolate or swirl melted chocolate into the batter before baking. - Nut-Free Brownies:
Skip walnuts and add crushed pretzels or white chocolate chips for crunch. - Salted Caramel Swirl:
Drizzle caramel sauce over the top before baking and sprinkle with sea salt for a gourmet twist. - Peanut Butter Brownies:
Add dollops of peanut butter to the batter and swirl gently for a nutty kick. - Fruit-Infused Brownies:
Mix in dried cranberries or cherries for a sweet-tart surprise. - Vegan Version:
Replace eggs with flaxseed eggs and use coconut oil instead of butter.
Freezing and Storage
- Room Temperature:
Store cooled brownies in an airtight container for up to 3 days. - Refrigeration:
Extend freshness by refrigerating for up to 1 week — the texture becomes fudgier! - Freezing:
Wrap individual brownies in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months.
Thaw at room temperature or warm briefly in the microwave before serving.
Special Equipment Needed
- 8×8-inch baking pan
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk and spatula
- Parchment paper
- Sifter (optional but helpful for dry ingredients)
Conclusion
These Picnic Brownies with Chocolate Chips and Walnuts are the ultimate blend of indulgence and simplicity. Fudgy, rich, and dotted with crunchy nuts and melty chocolate, they’re the perfect companion for outdoor gatherings or cozy indoor treats.
They hold their shape beautifully, taste even better the next day, and bring smiles wherever they go. Whether you’re baking for family, friends, or simply treating yourself, these brownies are a guaranteed hit — a classic you’ll make again and again.
Picnic Brownies with Chocolate Chips and Walnuts
Few desserts can rival the irresistible charm of Picnic Brownies with Chocolate Chips and Walnuts — a treat that combines rich chocolate flavor, chewy texture, and the satisfying crunch of toasted nuts.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients:
Wet Ingredients:
Mix-ins:
Optional for Serving:
Instructions
-
Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Pan : Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8x8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it with butter. Leave a little parchment overhang on two sides for easy brownie removal.
-
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients : In a medium bowl, sift together flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. Whisk gently to combine and set aside.
-
Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients : In a large mixing bowl, whisk together melted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until smooth and glossy. Add eggs one at a time, whisking after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract for aroma and depth.
-
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures : Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture using a spatula — do not overmix. Once mostly combined, fold in chocolate chips and chopped walnuts.
-
Step 5: Pour and Bake : Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly. Optionally, sprinkle a few extra chocolate chips or walnuts on top for texture. Bake for 28–32 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with moist crumbs (not wet batter).
-
Step 6: Cool and Slice : Allow brownies to cool completely in the pan before slicing. Use the parchment overhang to lift them out easily. Cut into squares or rectangles and dust lightly with powdered sugar if desired.
