Pre-heat oven to 350 degrees and grease a 13x9x2-inch baking pan OR two 8 inch square baking pans. (Line pans with parchment paper and non-stick spray for easier cutting and removal.)

Melt butter on the stovetop (it will explode in the microwave).

Heat 1/2 cup of water on stovetop, or place in a microwave safe container and cook in the microwave for about 45 seconds to 1 minute. Cook a little extra in case of evaporation, and double check the quantity. Optional: Dissolve 1 tablespoon of espresso into the water, OR use reheated coffee.

While waiting for the butter to melt, in a large bowl combine: 3/4 cup Cocoa powder, 1/2 tsp Baking soda

To the cocoa powder mixture add HALF (1/3 cup) of the melted butter, and slowly add the hot water (1/2 cup) to make a thick chocolate paste.

After the chocolate paste has formed add the following ingredients. Be sure to mix well before moving to the next ingredient: 2 cups Sugar, 2 Eggs, 1/3 cup Butter

When the batter is nice and smooth, slowly add the remaining ingredients. Works best when the flour is added in small batches and the mixer is on a low speed: 1-1/3 cups All-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon Vanilla extract, 1/4 teaspoon Salt, 1 cup Chocolate Chips (or other mixins, nuts...candy...)

Take the batter and pour into prepared pans:
13x9 pan: Bake 35 to 40 minutes
8x8 pan: Bake 30-35 minutes

Brownies are done when a toothpick placed in the center comes out fairly clean (sometimes it pokes a chocolate chip), and when the brownies begin to pull away from the sides of the pan.

Place the pans on a wire rack to cool. Cut and enjoy, over...and over...and over again!