Fit baking parchment across the base and up two opposite sides, leaving two handles. Once the brownies have cooled as the recipe directs, use both handles to lift the slab.
Fit the paper before mixing
For an eight-inch square pan, cut a strip about as wide as the flat base. Leave enough length to go up each side with a short grip above the rim. Pan walls can taper, so fit against the actual pan. Crease the paper at the base corners. Follow its temperature rating and keep it away from exposed heating elements.
Prepare the exposed sides
Follow the recipe's directions for greasing the pan or paper. Two walls are exposed with a single strip. Check that the parchment lies flat across the base before adding batter, and center it again if it slips during pouring.
Lift after cooling
Set a board nearby. After the recommended cooling time, check that the uncovered edges have released. Grip both handles and lift evenly. If an edge sticks, lower the slab and free it before trying again. Transfer it to the board before trimming any paper that gets in the way of slicing.
Practice with an empty pan
Can you grasp both handles while the paper still sits flat in the corners? Adjust the folds while the pan is empty.
Work out the strip length
Measure the bottom and the height of both sides the paper will cover. If the base is eight inches across and the sides are two inches high, the path from one rim to the other is roughly twelve inches before you add the handles. Start a little longer and trim after a dry fit. A sloped pan or rounded corners can change where the folds land.
Fix a strip that keeps curling
Place the parchment in the empty pan and crease it along the two bottom corners. Press it against the base to see whether it springs away. If the recipe calls for greasing the pan, the grease can also help hold the paper in position. Check the two exposed walls while you can still reach them easily.
Keep the slab supported
Set the board beside the pan before you lift. You want a short, level trip from the pan to the board, especially if the slab is soft. If one handle tears or an edge stays caught, stop lifting and support the slab before freeing it. Once it is on the board, spread the paper flat or move it aside so it does not bunch under the knife.
