Lunchroom Ladies Brownies are a nostalgic treat that many remember fondly from their school days. These brownies are known for their rich, chocolatey flavor and dense, fudgy texture, often topped with a layer of smooth chocolate frosting. This classic recipe brings back the simplicity and joy of childhood desserts, making it perfect for sharing with family and friends or revisiting sweet memories. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or new to the kitchen, these brownies are straightforward to make and sure to please any crowd with their timeless appeal.
Why You’ll Love Lunchroom Ladies Brownies
- Rich and Chocolatey: These brownies deliver a deep chocolate flavor that’s both satisfying and indulgent.
- Perfect Texture: Achieve the ideal balance between cakey and fudgy, with a moist interior and slightly crisp edges.
- Simple Ingredients: Made with pantry staples, there’s no need for fancy ingredients or techniques.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Ideal for gatherings, potlucks, or a special treat for loved ones, these brownies are always a hit.
Ingredients Notes
- Cocoa Powder: Provides the chocolate flavor. Use unsweetened cocoa powder for the best results.
- Butter: Adds richness and contributes to the fudgy texture.
- Sugar: Sweetens the brownies and balances the bitterness of the cocoa.
- Flour: All-purpose flour gives the brownies structure without making them too cakey.
- Eggs: Bind the ingredients together and add moisture.
- Vanilla Extract: Enhances the chocolate flavor and adds depth.
- Frosting: A simple chocolate frosting made from butter, cocoa powder, powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract tops off these brownies, adding an extra layer of sweetness and texture.
Recipe Steps
- Preheat Oven: Start by preheating your oven and greasing a baking pan.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a bowl, whisk together the flour and cocoa powder.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a separate bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.
- Combine Mixtures: Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
- Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top. Bake until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
- Prepare the Frosting: While the brownies cool, make the frosting by beating together all frosting ingredients until smooth and spreadable.
- Frost Brownies: Once the brownies have cooled, spread the frosting evenly over the top.
- Serve: Cut into squares and serve. For cleaner cuts, chill the frosted brownies before slicing.
Storage and Freezing
- Storing: Keep in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.
- Freezing: Freeze unfrosted brownies wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature and frost before serving.
Ultimate Guide to Making Lunchroom Ladies Brownies
Ingredients
- All-purpose flour: 2 cups
- Granulated sugar: 2 cups
- Unsalted butter: 1 cup (2 sticks), melted
- Unsweetened cocoa powder: 1/4 cup
- Eggs: 4, large
- Vanilla extract: 2 teaspoons
- Salt: 1/2 teaspoon
- Chopped nuts (optional): 1 cup
Chocolate Frosting Ingredients:
- Unsalted butter: 1/4 cup (1/2 stick), softened
- Milk: 1/4 cup
- Unsweetened cocoa powder: 1/4 cup
- Powdered sugar: 3 cups, sifted
- Vanilla extract: 1 teaspoon
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Pan:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
- Make the Brownie Batter:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the melted butter, granulated sugar, and unsweetened cocoa powder. Stir until well combined.
- Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
- Gradually add the flour and salt to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined. If using, fold in the chopped nuts.
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly.
- Bake:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. Be careful not to overbake to ensure the brownies stay fudgy.
- Prepare the Chocolate Frosting:
- While the brownies are baking, prepare the frosting. In a medium bowl, beat together the softened butter, milk, and cocoa powder until smooth.
- Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, beating until the frosting is smooth and spreadable.
- Frost the Brownies:
- Allow the brownies to cool slightly in the pan before spreading the frosting on top. For best results, the brownies should be warm but not hot when frosted to help the frosting set properly.
- Serve:
- Let the frosted brownies cool completely in the pan before cutting into squares. This will allow the frosting to set and make it easier to get clean cuts.
