Lunchroom Ladies Brownies
Ingredients:
1 cup unsalted butter, melted
1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
2 cups granulated sugar
4 large eggs
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 tsp vanilla extract
1/2 tsp salt
1 cup chopped nuts (optional)
Frosting:
1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
1/4 cup milk
1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
3 cups powdered sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
Directions:
Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper.
Prepare the Brownie Batter:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the melted butter and cocoa powder. Stir until smooth. Add the granulated sugar and mix until well combined.
Beat in the eggs, one at a time, ensuring each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next.
Stir in the vanilla extract, then gradually add the flour and salt, mixing just until combined. If using, fold in the chopped nuts.
Bake the Brownies:
Pour the brownie batter into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Prepare the Frosting:
While the brownies are baking, prepare the frosting. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Stir in the milk and cocoa powder, and cook until smooth and slightly thickened, about 2-3 minutes.
Remove from heat, and gradually whisk in the powdered sugar and vanilla extract until the frosting is smooth and glossy.
Frost the Brownies:
Once the brownies are done baking, remove them from the oven and immediately spread the warm frosting over the hot brownies. The heat from the brownies will help the frosting set to a smooth, fudgy layer.
Cool and Serve:
Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan before cutting them into squares. Serve and enjoy!
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cook Time: 25-30 minutes | Total Time: 45 minutes
Kcal: Approx. 320 per serving | Servings: 16