Directions to follow
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, mix together the 1 cup of melted butter and 1/2 cup cocoa until well combined.
- Add the 2 cups sugar, mixing thoroughly.
- Beat in the 4 eggs one at a time, followed by 4 tsp vanilla.
- Gradually fold in the 2 cups of flour and the 1 cup of chopped nuts until just combined.
- Pour the batter into a greased 9×13 inch pan.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, checking for doneness at the 20-minute mark.
- While the brownies bake, prepare the icing by creaming the softened butter with the milk, cocoa, powdered sugar, and a dash of salt.
- Once baked, allow the brownies to cool before frosting them with the icing.
Best ways to enjoy it
These brownies are divine on their own but can be enhanced in many ways. Try serving them warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, drizzled with chocolate sauce, or paired with fresh strawberries for a delightful contrast. Another fun idea is to pack them up in lunchboxes or serve during casual get-togethers.
Storage and reheating tips
To keep your Lunchroom Ladies Brownies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you have leftovers, you can also freeze them! Just wrap each brownie in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll last for about three months. To enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature or pop them in the microwave for a few seconds for that freshly baked taste.
Helpful cooking tips
- Make sure your eggs are at room temperature; this helps them blend more easily into the batter.
- Don’t over-mix the batter after adding the flour; this can result in dense brownies rather than a fluffy texture.
- Consider using a toothpick to check for doneness—only a few moist crumbs should cling.
Creative twists
Want to mix it up? Here are a few fun variations to try:
- Brownie Sundae: Layer with ice cream and hot fudge for an epic dessert.
- Nut-Free Version: Omit the nuts and enhance flavors with a sprinkle of sea salt or a dash of espresso powder.
- Add chocolate chips or peppermint extract to the batter for a seasonal twist.
FAQs
What is the prep time for Lunchroom Ladies Brownies?
The preparation time is about 15 minutes, and baking takes approximately 20-25 minutes.
Can I substitute any ingredients?
Yes! You can use margarine in place of butter, substitute coconut milk for canned milk, or swap all-purpose flour for gluten-free flour if necessary.
How do I stop my brownies from being dry?
Monitor your baking time closely and perform a toothpick test; pull them out when there are a few moist crumbs sticking to the toothpick.
Are these brownies safe to store at room temperature?
Yes! As long as they are kept in an airtight container, they remain perfectly safe at room temperature for about a week. For longer storage, freeze them to maintain freshness.
Whether you’re reminiscing about school lunches or simply want a quick, delightful dessert, Lunchroom Ladies Brownies are sure to hit the spot. Enjoy baking and indulging!
