Chilli Chocolate Brownies

Valentines day is upon us once more and if you've yet to complete your arsenal of enticement then these should be added to your repertoire post-haste. Seductive and sultry these brownies showcase two of the most potent of aphrodisiacs, chilli and chocolate in a manner that can only be described as downright sexual. Divinely dense and moist, with a dark, rich chocolate flavour the warm tickle of the chilli adds just the required amount of raunch. The amount of chilli you use depends on your preference, but if in doubt be brave. A little danger will only add to the excitement!

Prep time: 15 Mins
Baking time: 30-35 Mins
175g Dark Chocolate (Melted)
200g Unsalted Butter (Softened)
250g Caster Sugar
3 Large Eggs
50g Plain Flour
50g Cocoa Powder
1/2tsp Baking Powder
Pinch of Salt
2tsp Fresh Red Chilli (De-seeded and as finely chopped as you can)

Preheat the oven to 180C/350F/Gas 4, grease a 21cm square baking tin and line it with baking paper. In a large mixing bowl cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy, then mix in the melted chocolate. Beat in the eggs, one at a time, then sift in the flour, cocoa powder and baking powder. Add in the salt and chopped chilli, then mix the whole lot together to a smooth batter. Spoon into your prepared tin, even out to the edges and bake in the centre of the oven for 30-35 minutes, until a metal skewer comes out slightly wet and sticky.

Once the brownies are cooked remove from the oven and leave in the tray until cool. To finish carefully remove from the tray, slice into squares with a sharp knife and peel each from the paper. Serve just as they are, or for the ultimate delectation warm in a hot oven for 2 minutes and serve with cold vanilla ice cream. Shamelessly sinful and all the better for it!