Colleen, when you build the batter in the bowl this way, it's best to heat the butter and sugar together, then while the mixture is still rather warm add just the cocoa and stir it in. The warmth and butter will hydrate the cocoa and give you a nice, smooth mixture. While that's happening the mixture is cooling somewhat. I add the eggs right from the fridge, cold, one at a time, mixing after each. That also brings the mixture's temp down a bit. As long as you stir right away, I've never had any trouble with these brownies, and only one bowl to get dirty!!! Susan

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