Lunchroom Ladies Brownies

Transport yourself back to the nostalgia of school days with these timeless Lunchroom Ladies Brownies. This cherished recipe, passed down for over 50 years, captures the essence of simplicity and decadence in every bite. Made with pantry staples and infused with rich cocoa flavor, these brownies are a testament to the enduring tradition of homemade treats. Join me as we recreate this beloved classic and indulge in a slice of sweet nostalgia.

Lunchroom Ladies Brownies Recipe:

Ingredients:

• 1 cup butter
• 1/2 cup cocoa
• 2 cups flour
• 2 cups sugar
• 4 eggs
• 4 tsp vanilla
• 1 cup chopped nuts

Directions:

1. Prepare the Brownie Batter:
   • In a mixing bowl, combine the butter and cocoa.
   • Gradually add in the flour and sugar, mixing well after each addition.
   • Beat in the eggs, one at a time, until fully incorporated.
   • Stir in the vanilla and chopped nuts until evenly distributed.
2. Bake the Brownies:
   • Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
   • Pour the brownie batter into a greased 9 x 13-inch baking pan, spreading it out evenly.
   • Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
   • Check for doneness at the 20-minute mark to prevent over-baking.
3. Prepare the Icing:
   • In a mixing bowl, combine the softened butter, can milk, cocoa, powdered sugar, and a dash of salt.
   • Mix until smooth and creamy, ensuring there are no lumps.
4. Frost the Brownies:
   • Once the brownies are baked and cooled, spread the icing evenly over the top.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
   • Slice the brownies into squares and serve.

Tips for Perfect Lunchroom Ladies Brownies:

1. Use High-Quality Cocoa: Opt for high-quality cocoa powder for a richer and more intense chocolate flavor.
2. Do Not Overmix: Be careful not to overmix the batter to avoid dense brownies. Mix until just combined.
3. Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure that the butter and eggs are at room temperature before using them in the recipe for better incorporation and texture.
4. Check for Doneness: Brownies continue to cook slightly as they cool, so it’s better to slightly under-bake them than over-bake for a fudgier texture.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions):

1. Can I omit the nuts from the recipe?
   • Yes, you can omit the nuts or substitute them with chocolate chips if desired.
2. Can I use salted butter for the icing?
   • Yes, you can use salted butter, but you may want to adjust the amount of additional salt added to the icing accordingly.
3. Can I freeze the brownies?
   • Yes, these brownies freeze well. Allow them to cool completely, then wrap tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing.
4. Can I use a different size baking pan?
   • While a 9 x 13-inch pan is recommended, you can use a different size, but adjust the baking time accordingly.

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