Name: Lunch Lady Brownies
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 1/2 cup butter (melted); 1 cup white sugar; 2 eggs; 1 tablespoon vanilla extract; 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 2 tablespoons butter (softened); 3 tablespoons milk; 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder; 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar

If you’re looking for a classic treat that brings back nostalgic memories of school lunches and simple pleasures, look no further than Lunch Lady Brownies. These fudgy, chocolatey squares are perfect for sharing, offering a delightful combination of rich flavors and a soft, chewy texture. With a few basic ingredients, you can whip up a batch that will have everyone asking for seconds. Let’s dive into this scrumptious recipe and discover why it’s a favorite among both kids and adults alike.

Why This Recipe Works

Lunch Lady Brownies are designed to be easy and delicious, making them the perfect dessert for any occasion. The combination of melted butter and sugar creates a moist base, while the addition of cocoa powder ensures a rich chocolate flavor. The eggs lend structure, making these brownies chewy yet soft. What makes this recipe stand out is its simplicity—no fancy ingredients or complex techniques required. Just mix, bake, and enjoy!

Your Shopping Guide

Before you get started, make sure you have the following ingredients on hand:

1/2 cup butter – This should be melted for the brownie batter.
1 cup white sugar – Sweetens the brownies perfectly.
2 eggs – Provides moisture and structure.
1 tablespoon vanilla extract – Adds a lovely aroma and flavor.
1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder – For that deep chocolate taste.
1 cup all-purpose flour – The backbone of the brownie.
2 tablespoons butter (softened) – For the frosting.
3 tablespoons milk – Adds creaminess to the frosting.
2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder – For the frosting, enhancing the chocolate flavor.
1 1/2 cups powdered sugar – Sweetens and gives the frosting its creamy texture.

Recommended Tools

Before you start baking, gather these tools:

Mixing bowls – For combining your ingredients.
Whisk or electric mixer – To beat the eggs and mix the batter smoothly.
9×13 inch baking pan – The perfect size for your brownies.
Spoon or spatula – For spreading the frosting evenly on top.
Measuring cups and spoons – Essential for accurate ingredient measurements.

How to Prepare Lunch Lady Brownies

Follow these simple steps for a delicious batch of Lunch Lady Brownies:

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your brownies bake evenly.

Step 2: Prepare the Baking Pan

Grease your 9×13 inch baking pan with a little butter or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.

Step 3: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the melted butter and white sugar. Stir until well combined, then add the eggs and vanilla extract. Mix until the mixture is smooth and creamy.

Step 4: Add the Dry Ingredients

Sift together the cocoa powder and all-purpose flour, then gradually fold it into the wet mixture. Stir until just combined; do not overmix.

Step 5: Bake

Pour the brownie batter into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out with a few moist crumbs.

Step 6: Prepare the Frosting

While the brownies are baking, prepare the frosting. In a mixing bowl, combine the softened butter, milk, cocoa powder, and powdered sugar. Mix until smooth and creamy.

Step 7: Frost the Brownies

Once the brownies are out of the oven and have cooled for about 10 minutes, spread the frosting generously over the top. Allow the brownies to cool completely before cutting into squares.

Dietary Swaps & Alternatives

If you’re looking to make some substitutions, consider these options:

Butter – Use coconut oil or vegan butter for a dairy-free version.
White sugar – Substitute with coconut sugar for a healthier option.
All-purpose flour – Almond flour or gluten-free flour can work well as alternatives.
Milk – Swap with almond milk or soy milk for a dairy-free option.

Slip-Ups to Skip

To ensure your Lunch Lady Brownies turn out perfectly, avoid these common pitfalls:

Overmixing the batter can lead to tough brownies; mix just until combined.
Using cold ingredients can affect the texture; ensure your butter and eggs are at room temperature.
Not measuring ingredients accurately can throw off the balance; use proper measuring tools.
Skipping the cooling time can result in messy frosting; let them cool before adding the frosting.

Best Ways to Store

To keep your Lunch Lady Brownies fresh and delicious, follow these storage tips:

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days.
For longer storage, place brownies in the refrigerator, where they can last up to a week.
You can freeze brownies for up to three months. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil.
Thaw frozen brownies in the refrigerator overnight before enjoying them.

Reader Questions

Can I use dark cocoa powder instead of unsweetened cocoa powder?

Yes, using dark cocoa powder will give your brownies a richer flavor, but be mindful that it may affect the sweetness slightly, so you may want to adjust the sugar accordingly.

How can I make these brownies more fudgy?

To achieve a fudgier texture, reduce the flour by a couple of tablespoons and slightly underbake them. Just ensure they are set in the middle before removing them from the oven.

Can I add nuts or chocolate chips to the recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to mix in 1/2 cup of chocolate chips or chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for added texture and flavor.

What’s the best way to cut brownies for neat squares?

For neat cuts, use a sharp knife and wipe it clean between cuts. Letting the brownies cool completely helps them firm up, making it easier to slice.

That’s a Wrap

Now that you have all the tips and tricks to make perfect Lunch Lady Brownies, it’s time to gather your ingredients and start baking. This simple yet satisfying recipe is sure to impress your family and friends and will likely become a staple in your dessert repertoire. Whether served warm or at room temperature, these brownies deliver a delightful chocolate experience that everyone will love. Enjoy the process, and most importantly, enjoy every delicious bite of your homemade brownies!