Lunchroom Ladies Brownies-50-year-old recipe!

Before we embark on our journey to recreate these cherished brownies, let’s gather the essential ingredients:

For the Brownies:

• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, melted
• 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 4 large eggs
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt

For the Frosting:

• 1/4 cup (1/2 stick) unsalted butter, softened
• 1/4 cup whole milk
• 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 3 cups powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Step-by-Step Instructions

Let’s dive into the delightful process of making Lunchroom Ladies Brownies:

1. Preheat and Prep

A. PREHEAT THE OVEN

• Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan and set it aside.

2. Mix the Brownie Batter

A. COMBINE COCOA AND SUGAR

• In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the melted butter, unsweetened cocoa powder, and granulated sugar until well combined. The mixture should be smooth and glossy.

B. ADD EGGS AND VANILLA

• Beat in the eggs, one at a time, ensuring each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next. Stir in the vanilla extract.

C. SIFT DRY INGREDIENTS

• In a separate bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are okay.

3. Bake the Brownies

A. TRANSFER TO THE PAN

• Pour the brownie batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly.

B. BAKE TO PERFECTION

• Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. The brownies should have a fudgy, chewy texture.

4. Create the Frosting

A. MIX FROSTING INGREDIENTS

• While the brownies are cooling, prepare the frosting. In a mixing bowl, combine the softened butter, whole milk, unsweetened cocoa powder, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Beat until the frosting is smooth and creamy.

5. Frost the Brownies

A. SPREAD THE FROSTING

• Once the brownies have cooled completely, spread the frosting evenly over the top.

6. Slice and Enjoy

A. CUT INTO SQUARES

• Use a sharp knife to cut the brownies into squares or rectangles. The number of servings will depend on your preferred size.

B. SERVE AND SAVOR

• Plate your Lunchroom Ladies Brownies, grab a glass of cold milk, and savor the nostalgic delight of each bite.

Variations and Tips

• Nuts: Feel free to add chopped nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, to the brownie batter for extra texture and flavor.
• Chocolate Chips: For a gooey twist, sprinkle chocolate chips over the brownie batter before baking.
• Glaze: Instead of frosting, you can drizzle a chocolate glaze over the cooled brownies for a glossy finish.
• Storage: Store leftover brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or freeze them for longer storage.
• Share the Love: These brownies are perfect for sharing at potlucks, bake sales, or family gatherings.

Conclusion: Timeless Treats

Lunchroom Ladies Brownies are more than just a dessert; they’re a slice of history and a reminder of the simple joys in life. Whether you enjoyed them in the school cafeteria or are discovering them for the first time, these brownies capture the essence of homemade comfort food. With their rich chocolatey flavor and fudgy texture, they’re sure to become a favorite in your household for years to come. So, why wait? Whip up a batch and savor the nostalgia!