Description

These Lunch Lady Brownies are a rich and fudgy chocolate treat featuring a decadent homemade chocolate frosting. Made with melted butter, cocoa powder, eggs, and a perfect balance of sugar and vanilla, these brownies bake up moist and tender. The buttery chocolate frosting is poured over the warm brownies to create a luscious finish. Perfect for dessert or an indulgent snack, this classic recipe yields 16 generous servings.

Ingredients

Scale

Brownies

1 cup salted butter, melted
1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
2 cups all-purpose flour
2 cups granulated sugar
4 large eggs
4 teaspoons vanilla extract

Chocolate Frosting

1/4 cup salted butter, softened
1/4 cup 2% milk
1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
3 cups powdered sugar
1 cup salted butter, melted

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Instructions

Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper and spray the paper with non-stick spray to ensure easy removal and prevent sticking.
Mix Butter and Cocoa: In the bowl of an electric stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, combine the melted butter and 1/2 cup cocoa powder. Blend until smooth to create a chocolate base.
Add Dry Ingredients: Add the flour and granulated sugar to the butter-cocoa mixture. Beat together just until combined.
Incorporate Eggs and Vanilla: Add the four eggs and vanilla extract to the batter. Mix gently and just until fully combined; avoid overmixing as the batter should remain thick.
Bake the Brownies: Pour the brownie batter evenly into the prepared baking dish. Bake in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Once done, remove from oven and allow to stand for 15 minutes. The brownies should still be warm when frosting is applied.
Prepare the Frosting: In a mixing bowl, beat together the softened butter, melted butter, milk, cocoa powder, and powdered sugar until smooth and creamy. This luscious frosting will complement the warm brownies perfectly.
Frost and Cool: Pour and spread the frosting evenly over the warm brownies. Allow the brownies to cool completely before cutting into 16 squares and serving to ensure the frosting sets properly.

Notes

Be careful not to overmix the batter to maintain a fudgy texture.
Using salted butter adds a subtle savory contrast to the sweetness.
Frost the brownies while they are still warm to help the frosting melt slightly into the brownie for a rich finish.
Make sure to cool completely before cutting to avoid messy slices.
This recipe can be stored at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 3 days or refrigerated for longer freshness.