Ultimate Brownies

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9x13-inch baking pan with parchment paper or grease it lightly.

Melt the butter in a large saucepan over medium heat, then remove from heat and let cool slightly.

Stir sugar and vanilla extract into the melted butter until well combined.

Beat in eggs one at a time, stirring well after each addition until the mixture is smooth.

Whisk together cocoa, flour, baking powder, and salt in a separate bowl.

Fold the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until just combined; do not overmix.

Stir in milk chocolate chips and chopped nuts (if using) until evenly distributed throughout the batter.

Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top with a spatula.

Bake for 30-35 minutes, until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.

Allow brownies to cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes before cutting into 4 equal portions or smaller squares.