Description
Lunch Lady Brownies are a nostalgic American dessert known for their rich, fudgy texture and chocolatey frosting. These brownies are easy to make, featuring a simple batter baked to perfection and topped with a creamy cocoa frosting that melts slightly when spread warm, creating a luscious, fudge-like finish. Perfect for casual gatherings or a comforting treat, they yield 16 generously sized squares.
Ingredients
Brownie Batter
- 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
- ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 1½ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon salt
Frosting
- ÂĽ cup unsalted butter, softened
- ÂĽ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 3 cups powdered sugar
- ÂĽ cup milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish thoroughly to prevent sticking.
- Mix melted butter and cocoa: In a large bowl, whisk together the melted butter and unsweetened cocoa powder until the mixture is smooth and evenly combined.
- Add sugar and eggs: Stir in the granulated sugar, then crack in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition to incorporate fully and ensure a smooth batter.
- Add vanilla extract: Stir in the vanilla extract to infuse the batter with a warm, sweet flavor.
- Incorporate dry ingredients: Add the all-purpose flour and salt, folding them into the wet ingredients gently until just combined; overmixing should be avoided to keep the brownies tender.
- Bake the brownies: Pour the batter evenly into the prepared baking dish and spread it smooth. Bake in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs, indicating perfect doneness.
- Prepare the frosting: While the brownies bake, combine the softened butter, cocoa powder, powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract in a medium bowl. Beat or stir until the frosting is smooth, creamy, and free of lumps.
- Frost the brownies: When the brownies come out of the oven, allow them to cool for 10 to 15 minutes. Spread the frosting evenly over the warm brownies so that it melts slightly, creating a delicious fudge-like layer on top.
- Cool completely and serve: Let the frosted brownies cool completely before cutting into 16 squares to ensure the frosting sets and slices cleanly.
Notes
- Frosting the brownies while still warm helps it melt slightly, creating a luscious, fudge-like top layer.
- For extra texture and flavor, add chopped nuts or chocolate chips to the batter before baking.
- Use high-quality cocoa powder for the best chocolate flavor.
- Store brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for longer freshness.