Kubanskaya Brauniy

Kubanskaya Brauniy is a traditional twist on the popular chocolate brownie, originating from the Kuban region in Russia. Known for its rich, chocolatey flavor combined with hints of local ingredients like honey and walnuts, this dessert reflects the agricultural richness of the Kuban area.

Ingredients

• Unsalted Butter (1 cup)
• Dark Chocolate (150g)
• All-purpose Flour (1 cup)
• Cocoa Powder (1/2 cup)
• Baking Powder (1 tsp)
• Salt (1/2 tsp)
• Eggs (4 large)
• Granulated Sugar (1 cup)
• Honey (1/4 cup)
• Vanilla Extract (1 tsp)
• Walnuts (1 cup, chopped)
• Powdered Sugar (for garnish)

Preparation

To start preparing your Kubanskaya Brauniy, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a 9x9-inch baking pan by lining it with parchment paper or greasing it thoroughly. This ensures easy removal and even cooking.

Melting the Chocolate

Begin by melting the dark chocolate and unsalted butter together. You can do this by creating a double boiler or using a microwave in short bursts to prevent burning. Stir the mixture until smooth and let it cool slightly.

Mixing the Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. Sifting will ensure there are no lumps and the ingredients are well combined.

Combining Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, beat the eggs thoroughly before adding granulated sugar, honey, and vanilla extract. Whisk until the mixture is light and fluffy, which should take about 5 minutes.

Cooking Process

Combining All Ingredients

Slowly add the slightly cooled chocolate mixture into the egg mixture, whisking continually to keep the eggs from cooking. Once combined, fold in the dry ingredients, followed by the walnuts, taking care not to overmix which can lead to a tougher texture.

Baking the Brownies

Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 25-30 minutes, or until a skewer comes out with a few moist crumbs. For precise timing, refer to a cooking timer to avoid under or over-baking.

Cooling and Serving

Allow the baked brownies to cool in the pan for at least 15 minutes before removing them. Once cooled, cut into squares and dust with powdered sugar for a classic finish.

Enjoying Kubanskaya Brauniy

These rich, dense brownies are best enjoyed fresh and can be paired with a steaming cup of tea or coffee to bring out their full flavors. For a more decadent experience, serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. Their chocolatey depth paired with the crunch of walnuts and a hint of honey makes them an irresistible after-dinner delight or a cozy afternoon treat.