No-bake brownies are ready in 15 minutes without an oven: mix, pour into a pan, and chill for at least an hour before cutting into squares.

Why This Works Without Baking

These brownies aren't built on eggs and flour that need baking. They're set by melted chocolate and butter that firm up in the fridge, the same way fudge does. Crushed biscuits give the structure flour would normally provide, and the result is richer and denser than a baked brownie.

The Trick to Getting the Texture Right

The key is not overheating the chocolate: melt it in short microwave bursts rather than one long stretch, so it doesn't scorch. Press the mixture firmly into the pan before chilling, so it cuts into clean squares instead of crumbling.

The recipe

No-Bake Brownies

Rich, fudgy chocolate brownies that come together with 15 minutes of hands-on work and no oven, just mixing and chilling.

  • Servings 12 pieces
  • Prep 15 min
  • Total 1 hr 15 min

Ingredients

Instructions

  1. Melt the chocolate and butter together in the microwave in 20-second bursts, stirring between each, until smooth.

  2. Add the cocoa powder, sugar, and salt to the chocolate mixture and stir well.

  3. Fold in the crushed biscuits (and nuts, if using) until evenly coated.

  4. Pour into a parchment-lined pan and press firmly with a spatula to smooth the top.

  5. Chill for at least an hour, two is better, until firm.

  6. Cut into squares and serve.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long do I need to chill before cutting?
At least an hour in the fridge, two is better, so the mixture firms up enough.

Can I freeze these?
Yes, up to a month in an airtight container. Thaw in the fridge before serving.

Why aren't my brownies firming up?
Usually there's not enough chocolate or biscuits relative to the rest of the mix, or they haven't chilled long enough.

Can I make these without butter?
Yes, swap in melted coconut oil. The result will be slightly less rich but still sets properly.