Melt together butter and granulated sugar on the stove or in the microwave
Add 4 ounces of chopped dark chocolate and microwave just until everything melts together
Add 2 eggs straight from the fridge and whisk them in right away
Whisk vigorously for about a minute until the batter turns glossy and shiny
Add salt and vanilla extract and mix until combined
Add cocoa powder and fold together with a spatula until just combined
Add chocolate chips if desired
Pour batter into an 8 by 8 inch pan lined with parchment paper
Bake until the brownies look rich and chocolatey with a crackly top
