Brownies have delighted Americans since the end of the 19th century. The first written rendition of a brownie recipe appears in Fanny Farmer’s famous The Boston Cooking-School Book in 1896, and since then have been shaped, filled, and topped to ever palate’s whimsical pleasure. Here are 14 decadent brownies to salivate over this National Brownie Day.
Madina Papadopoulos is a New York-based freelance writer, author, and regular contributor to Paste. You can follow her adventures on Instagram and Twitter.
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Not one but twelve brownie morsels buried under six scoops ice cream caramel and chocolate sauces, and whipped cream.
Colossal Brownie Sundae at Buca di Beppo, Various Locations
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Pecans and coconut ganache galore, a la mode with coconut sorbet.
German Chocolate Cajun Brownie by Chef Meg Bickford of Café Adelaide, New Orleans
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This regal sundae is adorned with Caramelia Pearls.
Chocolate Toffee Brownie Sundae by DBGB DC, Washington, DC
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A caramel center and sea salt sprinkle make this slow-baked brownie extra delicious.
Dulce de Leche & Sea Salt Brownie by Carey Bell of Proof Bakeshop, Atlanta, Ga.
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Not just a cherry on top for this brownie sundae—but bourbon caramel sauce.
Brownie Sundae by e's BAR
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In the City of Sin, this sinful brownie has five sinful layers including cookie dough, caramel, oreo, Brownie, and pecans.
5 Layer Brownie by Teddy's Cafe in The Roosevelt, New Orleans
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German chocolate topping and Dulche de Leche put a delectable spin on this mouthful of joy.
Dulce de Leche & German Chocolate Brownie by executive Pastry Chef Cynthia Wong of Butcher & Bee, The Daily, Charleston, S.C.
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This brownie keeps it classic, topped with homemade vanilla ice cream.
Fudge Brownie Sundae by Bristol's Burgers (Hollywood, Fla.)
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These impressive shakes have shaken up Instagram. This brownie shake features a chocolate frosted rim, mini chocolate chips garnish, chocolate drizzle, whipped cream and two straws in case you want to share.
Brooklyn Blackout Shake by Chef Joe Isidori of Black Tap, New York
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When you can't choose between milk and dark chocolate, go with both!
Milk & Dark Chocolate Pecan Brownies Pastry Chef David Zaquine of Bagatelle, New York