My Favorite Brownies

Heat oven to 350°F. Line an 8×8-inch square baking pan with parchment, extending it up two sides, or foil. Butter the parchment or foil or spray it with a nonstick cooking spray.

In a medium heatproof bowl over gently simmering water, melt chocolate and butter together until only a couple unmelted bits remain. Off the heat, stir until smooth and fully melted. You can also do this in the microwave in 30-second bursts, stirring between each.

Whisk in sugar, then eggs, one at a time, then vanilla and salt.

Stir in flour with a spoon or flexible spatula and scrape batter into prepared pan, spread until even.

Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out batter-free.

Let cool and cut into desired size. If desired, dust the brownies with powdered sugar before serving.