These Lunchroom Ladies Brownies are a nostalgic treat, reminiscent of school lunchrooms and cherished memories. This 50-year-old recipe delivers rich, fudgy brownies topped with a decadent cocoa icing. Perfect for sharing at family gatherings or enjoying as a sweet treat anytime.
Ingredients:
For the Brownies:
- 1 cup butter
- 1/2 cup cocoa powder
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 eggs
- 4 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 cup chopped nuts (optional)
For the Icing:
- 1/4 cup softened butter
- 1/4 cup canned milk (or regular milk)
- 1/4 cup cocoa powder
- 3 cups powdered sugar
- Dash of salt
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Brownies:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a 9 x 13-inch baking pan.
2. Mix the Batter:
- In a large bowl, mix together the butter and cocoa powder until smooth.
- Add the flour and sugar, and stir until well combined.
- Beat in the eggs and vanilla extract.
- Fold in the chopped nuts, if using.
3. Bake the Brownies:
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes. Check for doneness at 20 minutes by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
- Remove from the oven and let cool in the pan.
4. Prepare the Icing:
- In a medium bowl, mix together the softened butter, milk, and cocoa powder until smooth.
- Gradually add the powdered sugar and a dash of salt, mixing until the icing is smooth and spreadable.
5. Frost the Brownies:
- Once the brownies are completely cooled, spread the icing evenly over the top.
6. Serve:
- Cut into squares and serve.
Helpful Tips:
- Doneness Check: To ensure brownies are not overbaked, start checking at the 20-minute mark. They should be slightly underbaked in the center for a fudgier texture.
- Nuts: If you’re not a fan of nuts or have allergies, you can omit them or replace them with chocolate chips for an extra chocolaty experience.
- Icing Consistency: If the icing is too thick, add a little more milk, one tablespoon at a time, until desired consistency is reached.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delicious dessert.
- Pair with a glass of cold milk or a hot cup of coffee for an afternoon treat.
- For a special occasion, sprinkle some chocolate shavings or sprinkles on top of the icing before it sets.
FAQs:
- Can I use margarine instead of butter?
- Yes, you can substitute margarine for butter in this recipe, but the flavor and texture might slightly differ.
- Can I make these brownies ahead of time?
- Yes, these brownies can be made a day ahead. Store them in an airtight container at room temperature or in the refrigerator.
- Can I freeze the brownies?
- Yes, you can freeze the brownies. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
- Can I use dark cocoa powder?
- Yes, using dark cocoa powder will give the brownies a richer, more intense chocolate flavor.
Servings: Makes about 24 brownies
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Total Time: 35-40 minutes
Calories: Approximately 200-250 calories per brownie, depending on size and if nuts are included
Enjoy these classic brownies with their rich, fudgy texture and decadent frosting!
Recipe Card
Lunchroom Ladies Brownies – 50-Year-Old Recipe
These Lunchroom Ladies Brownies are a nostalgic treat, reminiscent of school lunchrooms and cherished memories. This 50-year-old recipe delivers rich, fudgy brownies topped with a decadent cocoa icing. Perfect for sharing at family gatherings or enjoying as a sweet treat anytime.
Ingredients
For the Brownies:
- – 1 cup butter
- – 1/2 cup cocoa powder
- – 2 cups all-purpose flour
- – 2 cups granulated sugar
- – 4 eggs
- – 4 teaspoons vanilla extract
- – 1 cup chopped nuts optional
For the Icing:
- – 1/4 cup softened butter
- – 1/4 cup canned milk or regular milk
- – 1/4 cup cocoa powder
- – 3 cups powdered sugar
- – Dash of salt
Instructions
1. Prepare the Brownies:
- – Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- – Grease a 9 x 13-inch baking pan.
2. Mix the Batter:
- – In a large bowl, mix together the butter and cocoa powder until smooth.
- – Add the flour and sugar, and stir until well combined.
- – Beat in the eggs and vanilla extract.
- – Fold in the chopped nuts, if using.
3. Bake the Brownies:
- – Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan.
- – Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes. Check for doneness at 20 minutes by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
- – Remove from the oven and let cool in the pan.
4. Prepare the Icing:
- – In a medium bowl, mix together the softened butter, milk, and cocoa powder until smooth.
- – Gradually add the powdered sugar and a dash of salt, mixing until the icing is smooth and spreadable.
5. Frost the Brownies:
- – Once the brownies are completely cooled, spread the icing evenly over the top.
6. Serve:
- – Cut into squares and serve.