Wolfgang's Absolutely Luscious Brownies

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Generously grease and flour an 8x8-inch baking dish.

Combine the espresso powder and hot water in a small bowl and mix until dissolved.

Combine the bittersweet chocolate, butter, and espresso mixture in the top of a double boiler over simmering, not boiling, water. Cook, stirring frequently, until the chocolate is almost melted.

Remove the pan from the heat and stir until the chocolate is smooth.

Sift together the flour, baking powder, and salt.

In a large mixing bowl, combine the eggs, sugar, and vanilla. Beat on high speed until the mixture is uniform in color. Add the melted chocolate mixture and beat on low speed for 1-2 minutes or until combined.

With the mixer running on low speed, slowly add the flour. Beat until the flour is just incorporated into the batter.

Stir in half of the walnuts by hand.

Transfer the brownie batter to the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining walnuts over the top of the batter. Place the brownies in the oven and bake at 350 degrees F for 40-45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center of the brownies comes out clean.

Remove the pan from the oven and let the brownies cool on a wire rack before slicing in 2 1/2-inch squares.

Store the brownies in an airtight container.

Recipe Source: Adapted from Wolfgang Puck