Description of this recipe
This classic recipe for Lunchroom Ladies Brownies brings nostalgia to any kitchen, capturing the hearts and taste buds of both young and old. With a rich chocolate flavor balanced by a fudgy texture and topped with a creamy chocolate icing, these brownies are a standout dessert that harkens back to simpler times.
Why you will love this recipe
Not only are these brownies incredibly easy to whip up, but they also evoke memories of school lunches and sweet treats shared with friends. The delightful combination of wholesome ingredients ensures that each bite is deeply satisfying. Plus, the ability to customize with nuts or leave them out makes this recipe adaptable for any taste preference. Whether you’re baking for a school event, a family gathering, or just treating yourself to something sweet, these brownies are sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Introduction
Brownies are often the ultimate comfort food, and this timeless Lunchroom Ladies Brownies recipe is a fantastic base for a truly indulgent treat. This simple concoction of rich chocolate and buttery goodness has transcended generations, proving that sometimes the simplest recipes are indeed the best. Originating from school lunchrooms where mothers and caregivers would whip up large batches to feed hungry kids, these brownies have retained their popularity, standing the test of time due to their delicious taste and satisfying texture.
The dense chocolate flavor is accentuated by the goodness of butter and eggs, while the generous addition of chopped nuts gives a delightful crunch. Finished off with a creamy, sweet icing, these brownies are perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth. They’re great for sharing (or not!), and are far better than any boxed brownie mix you might find at the store.
In this article, I will guide you through the steps to create these delightful brownies and share tips and tricks to perfect this beloved recipe.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup butter (softened)
- 1/2 cup cocoa powder
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 4 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 cup chopped nuts (walnuts or pecans, optional)
Preparation:
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your brownies bake evenly from the moment they go in.
Step 2: Prepare the Brownie Batter
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened butter, cocoa powder, flour, sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract. Use an electric mixer or a whisk to blend these ingredients until you have a smooth and creamy batter. This step is crucial in ensuring your brownies have a uniform texture. If you’re using nuts, gently fold them into the batter at this point.
Step 3: Bake the Brownies
- Pour the brownie batter into a greased 9×13-inch baking pan. Spread the batter evenly to ensure uniform baking. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes. Keep an eye on them; check for doneness at the 20-minute mark by inserting a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean, your brownies are ready; if not, give them a few more minutes, but be careful not to overbake.
Step 4: Prepare the Icing
- While the brownies are baking, prepare the icing. In a mixing bowl, combine 1/4 cup softened butter, 1/4 cup milk (or canned milk for a richer taste), 1/4 cup cocoa powder, 3 cups powdered sugar, and a pinch of salt. Mix well until the icing is smooth and creamy. The icing elevates these brownies, adding a layer of sweetness and a pleasing texture contrast to the fudgy base.
Step 5: Frost the Brownies
- Once the brownies are out of the oven and slightly cooled (about 10-15 minutes), spread the icing evenly over the top using a spatula. Allow the icing to set for a few minutes, then cut the brownies into squares for serving.
Step 6: Serve
- These brownies can be served warm, at room temperature, or chilled, depending on your preference. Enjoy them plain or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat!
COOKING Rating:
Difficulty Level: Easy
Cook Time: Approximately 25 minutes (plus cooling time)
Serving Suggestions:
These brownies can be served in various delightful ways. Try pairing them with a scoop of ice cream for a decadent dessert or enjoy them with a cup of coffee or tea for an afternoon treat. A sprinkle of sea salt on the icing can also enhance the chocolate flavor, providing a sweet-salty contrast that is irresistible.
Tips:
- For a gluten-free version, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
- Want more flavor? Consider adding a teaspoon of instant coffee granules to the batter to deepen the chocolate taste.
- To make storing these brownies easier, layer them between sheets of parchment paper in an airtight container. They’ll keep fresh for up to a week at room temperature, or longer in the fridge.
Prep Time:
- 15 minutes
Cook Time:
- 25 minutes
Total Time:
- 40 minutes (not including cooling time)
Nutritional Information (per serving, based on 24 servings):
- Calories: 200
- Protein: 2g
- Sodium: 30mg
Conclusion
In conclusion, Lunchroom Ladies Brownies are not just a dessert; they’re a memory of school days gone by and a comfort food that brings people together. This recipe, with its simple ingredients and straightforward preparation, showcases how classic treats are often the most satisfying. Whether you’re baking them for a special occasion or simply indulging in something sweet at home, these brownies are sure to impress.
Questions and Answers about this Recipe
- Can I use margarine instead of butter?
- Yes, you can use margarine, but using real butter will give you a richer flavor and texture.
- What type of cocoa powder should I use?
- Unsweetened cocoa powder works best for this recipe as it allows you to control the sweetness of your brownies.
- How can I make these brownies more chocolaty?
- You can add chocolate chips to the batter or increase the amount of cocoa powder slightly to intensify the chocolate flavor.
- Can I freeze these brownies?
- Absolutely! They freeze well. Wrap them in plastic wrap and place them in an airtight container for up to three months.
- How do I know when the brownies are done baking?
- Insert a toothpick into the center of the brownies; if it comes out with a few moist crumbs, they are done. If it comes out completely clean, they may be overbaked.
Enjoy your classic Lunchroom Ladies Brownies!
