LUNCH LADY BROWNIES
An Introduction to Lunch Lady Brownies
Lunch Lady Brownies are the perfect blend of moist, chocolatey goodness that takes you back to the nostalgic days of school lunches, but with a homemade twist that makes them even better! Whether you’re in the mood for a sweet treat to ease your stress or just craving something delicious, these brownies will hit the spot every time.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These brownies are incredibly fudgy, chewy, and bursting with rich chocolate flavor. Inspired by the classic desserts served by lunch ladies in schools, this recipe brings a bit of nostalgia to your kitchen while delivering an indulgent taste that’s hard to resist. They’re simple to make and perfect for sharing with friends and family.
Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need
- 9×13-inch baking dish
- Foil
- Non-stick spray
- Electric stand mixer with paddle attachment
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Spatula
- Toothpick
Ingredients
- 1 cup butter, melted
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 4 teaspoons vanilla extract
- For the Chocolate Frosting:
- 1/4 cup butter, softened
- 1/4 cup milk (I use 2%)
- 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 3 cups powdered sugar
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F. Line a 9×13-inch baking dish with foil and spray it with non-stick spray. Set aside.
- In the bowl of an electric stand mixer, combine the melted butter and cocoa powder. Blend with the paddle attachment until smooth.
- Add the flour and sugar to the mixture and beat together. Then, add the eggs and vanilla, mixing just until combined. Be careful not to over mix, as the batter will be thick.
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Remove the brownies from the oven and let them stand for 15 minutes before frosting. The brownies should still be warm when you frost them.
- For the chocolate frosting, beat together all the frosting ingredients until smooth. Pour and spread over the warm brownies. Let cool completely before cutting and serving.
Tips for Success
- Ensure the butter is completely melted before mixing with the cocoa powder for a smooth consistency.
- Avoid over mixing the batter as it can result in dense brownies.
- Frosting the brownies while they’re warm helps the frosting to set perfectly.
Additional Tips and Variations
For a nutty twist, consider adding a cup of chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter. If you prefer a different flavor, try substituting the vanilla extract with almond or mint extract.
Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)
While exact values may vary, each serving of these Lunch Lady Brownies is rich in flavor and a delightful treat to satisfy your chocolate cravings.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Can I use a different size baking dish?
A: You can, but the baking time will vary. A smaller dish will make thicker brownies and require a longer bake time.
Q: How should I store these brownies?
A: Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days, or freeze them for longer storage.
Conclusion
Lunch Lady Brownies are a delightful treat that brings back fond memories while delivering an irresistible chocolatey experience. I invite you to give this recipe a try and see for yourself how delicious these brownies can be. Don’t forget to share your experiences and any variations you try. Enjoy!