Lunchroom Ladies Brownies

Lunchroom Ladies Brownies have been a beloved treat for generations, cherished for their rich chocolate flavor and irresistible texture. This recipe, passed down for over 50 years, captures the essence of homemade goodness in every bite. With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, you can recreate these classic brownies in your own kitchen.

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. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of butter and 1/2 cup of cocoa until smooth.
3. Gradually add 2 cups of flour and 2 cups of sugar to the cocoa mixture, mixing well.
4. Beat in 4 eggs, one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated.
5. Stir in 4 tsp of vanilla extract and 1 cup of chopped nuts until evenly distributed.
6. Pour the batter into a greased 9 x 13 inch pan, spreading it out evenly.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, checking for doneness at the 20-minute mark with a toothpick inserted into the center. The toothpick should come out with moist crumbs, not wet batter.
8. Once baked, remove the brownies from the oven and allow them to cool completely in the pan.

Icing:

1. In a mixing bowl, combine 1/4 cup of softened butter, 1/4 cup of canned milk (regular milk works fine), and 1/4 cup of cocoa.
2. Gradually add 3 cups of powdered sugar and a dash of salt to the mixture, beating until smooth and creamy.
3. Spread the icing evenly over the cooled brownies in the pan.

Tips:

• For extra richness, consider using high-quality cocoa and real vanilla extract.
• If you prefer your brownies without nuts, feel free to omit them from the recipe.
• Ensure that the butter is softened for the icing to achieve a smooth consistency.
• Let the brownies cool completely before frosting to prevent the icing from melting.

Conclusion:

These Lunchroom Ladies Brownies are sure to become a favorite in your home, perfect for gatherings, potlucks, or simply satisfying your sweet tooth. With their timeless appeal and homemade charm, they embody the essence of classic baking, bringing joy to every bite. Enjoy the nostalgia and deliciousness of these brownies as you share them with family and friends, creating memories that will last a lifetime.

1. Can I substitute ingredients in this recipe?

• While substitutions can sometimes be made in recipes, it’s important to note that altering the ingredients may affect the texture and flavor of the brownies. For example, you can try substituting margarine for butter, but it may change the richness of the brownies. If you’re allergic to nuts or prefer to omit them, you can leave them out entirely without significantly altering the recipe. However, for best results, it’s recommended to follow the recipe as closely as possible.

1. How can I ensure that my brownies turn out moist and fudgy?

• Achieving the perfect texture for brownies involves a careful balance of ingredients and baking time. To ensure that your brownies are moist and fudgy, avoid overbaking them. Check the brownies at the 20-minute mark by inserting a toothpick into the center. If it comes out with moist crumbs clinging to it, rather than wet batter, the brownies are ready to be removed from the oven. Overbaking can result in dry and crumbly brownies, so it’s crucial to monitor them closely.

1. What can I do if I don’t have a 9 x 13 inch pan?

• If you don’t have a 9 x 13 inch pan, you can use alternative baking dishes, but keep in mind that this may affect the thickness and baking time of the brownies. For example, using a smaller pan may result in thicker brownies that require additional baking time, while using a larger pan may result in thinner brownies that bake more quickly. Adjust the baking time accordingly and keep a close eye on the brownies to prevent them from burning or becoming overly dry.

1. Can I freeze these brownies for later use?

• Yes, you can freeze Lunchroom Ladies Brownies for later enjoyment. Once the brownies have cooled completely, cut them into individual servings or leave them whole, depending on your preference. Wrap the brownies tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn and place them in an airtight container or freezer bag. Frozen brownies can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw the brownies at room temperature or warm them briefly in the microwave for a fresh-from-the-oven taste.