Lunch Lady Brownies are a classic, nostalgic treat that brings comfort with every bite. Known for their rich chocolate flavor and chewy texture, these brownies are perfect for any occasion, from school lunches to family gatherings. With simple ingredients and easy preparation, they’re sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup cocoa powder
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 4 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Directions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- In a small saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Stir in the cocoa powder until smooth. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, and salt. Mix in the butter-cocoa mixture until well combined.
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Allow the brownies to cool before cutting into squares.
Servings and Timing
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Servings: 12
Variations
- Frosted Version: Top these brownies with a layer of chocolate frosting or a dusting of powdered sugar for added sweetness.
- Add-Ins: Stir in chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or swirl in caramel for a unique twist on the classic recipe.
- Gluten-Free: Swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend to make these brownies suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
- Minty Brownies: Add 1/2 teaspoon of peppermint extract to the batter for a mint-chocolate flavor.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store the brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4-5 days.
- Freezing: These brownies freeze well. Wrap individual pieces in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer bag for up to 3 months. To enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature or heat in the microwave for 10-15 seconds.
- Reheating: If you prefer warm brownies, microwave them for about 10-15 seconds or heat them in an oven at 350°F for 5-7 minutes.
10 FAQs
- Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted butter? Yes, but reduce the amount of salt in the recipe to 1/4 teaspoon to avoid overly salty brownies.
- How can I tell when the brownies are done? Insert a toothpick into the center of the brownies. If it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs, they’re ready.
- Can I make these brownies ahead of time? Yes, you can make these brownies up to 2 days in advance and store them in an airtight container.
- Can I double the recipe? Yes, you can double the recipe and bake in a larger dish, such as a 9×13-inch pan.
- Do these brownies need to be refrigerated? No, these brownies can be stored at room temperature for several days.
- Can I add frosting to these brownies? Absolutely! These brownies are delicious with or without frosting, but a layer of chocolate or vanilla frosting makes them extra indulgent.
- Can I substitute the cocoa powder for chocolate? You can substitute cocoa powder with melted chocolate, but you will need to adjust the amount and reduce the sugar in the recipe.
- How can I make these brownies more cake-like? To make these brownies more cake-like, you can add an extra egg and reduce the baking time slightly.
- Can I use a different type of sugar? Yes, you can experiment with brown sugar or coconut sugar for a different flavor and texture.
- How do I get clean slices when cutting brownies? Allow the brownies to cool completely before cutting them. For cleaner slices, you can run your knife under warm water and wipe it between cuts.
Conclusion
Lunch Lady Brownies are a timeless treat that offers a rich, chocolatey experience with every bite. Their simple ingredients and straightforward preparation make them perfect for any baker, whether you’re a beginner or an expert. Enjoy them as a nostalgic snack, a dessert for family meals, or a treat to share with friends.