Brownie Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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brownie
[หbraสni ]
Definition
dessert treat
A brownie is a square or rectangular chocolate baked good that is typically rich, fudgy, and dense in texture. It is made from flour, sugar, butter, eggs, cocoa powder, and often includes ingredients like chocolate chips, nuts, or vanilla. Brownies can be served plain or with toppings like icing or powdered sugar. They are a popular dessert in various cultures and are often enjoyed at parties, gatherings, or as a sweet snack. The name 'brownie' originates from the chocolate color of the dessert.
Synonyms
chocolate bar, chocolate square, dessert.
Examples of usage
- I made a batch of brownies for the bake sale.
- She enjoys a warm brownie with ice cream.
- He brought brownies to the picnic last weekend.
- The recipe calls for chopped nuts in the brownies.
- They prefer fudgy brownies over cake-like ones.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Culinary History
- The creation of brownies is often credited to a homemaker from Chicago in the late 19th century who was attempting to make a chocolate cake.
- Brownies were introduced at the 1893 Chicago World's Fair, helping them gain popularity quickly across the United States.
- Different styles exist, such as cakey or fudgy, and variations include adding nuts, chocolate chips, or frosting.
Baking Techniques
- A key baking technique for brownies involves melting butter and chocolate together for a rich flavor.
- Overmixing the batter can lead to cake-like brownies, while gentle mixing results in denser, fudgier squares.
- Chilling brownies in the fridge before cutting them helps achieve clean edges and a neat presentation.
Pop Culture
- Brownies are frequently featured in children's literature, often symbolizing comfort and togetherness, such as in the book 'The Little House on the Prairie.'
- Famous characters in TV shows and movies are often depicted enjoying brownies as a favorite treat during special events or gatherings.
- Various bakeries have created unique brownie flavors, even hosting brownie festivals celebrating creativity in dessert making.
Cultural Significance
- In American culture, brownies are often served at school bake sales, signifying a communal spirit and support among families.
- These treats are integral to many celebrations, including birthdays and holidays, showcasing their popularity as a dessert staple.
- The act of sharing brownies often symbolizes friendship and hospitality, making them a popular choice among visitors.
Science of Baking
- Baking powder or baking soda can affect the texture of brownies, contributing to their rise or density depending on the recipe used.
- The Maillard reaction occurs during baking, responsible for browning and adding complex flavors to the brownies.
- Temperature control is essential during baking; high heat can dry them out, while low heat may result in gooey centers.
Origin of 'brownie'
The term 'brownie' dates back to the late 19th century in the United States, with the earliest known recipe appearing in a cookbook published in 1904. Originally, brownies were considered a type of chocolate cake, but over time they evolved into the denser form we know today. The name likely comes from the rich, brown color of the dessert. Some accounts suggest that the dessert was created at the Palmer House Hotel in Chicago for the World's Columbian Exposition in 1893, where a chef made chocolate cakes that could be easily served to women at a picnic. This innovation led to the concept of the brownie, which then gained widespread popularity across America and eventually inspired countless variations.