Lunchroom Ladies Brownies-50 year old recipe!

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There’s something undeniably nostalgic about biting into a brownie that takes you back to your school days. The Lunchroom Ladies Brownies recipe is a beloved classic that has stood the test of time, evoking warm memories of laughter, friends, and lunchtime treats. This recipe has been passed down through generations, cherished for its simplicity and rich chocolate flavor.

What sets these brownies apart is their fudgy texture and the delightful contrast of sweetness from the chocolate. They are the perfect treat to enjoy with a glass of cold milk, a scoop of ice cream, or even on their own. In this article, we’ll explore how to recreate these timeless brownies, along with tips, tricks, and serving suggestions that make them a favorite for all ages.

Ingredients

For the Brownies:

  • All-purpose flour – 1 cup
  • Unsweetened cocoa powder – ½ cup
  • Granulated sugar – 2 cups
  • Unsalted butter – 1 cup (2 sticks), melted
  • Eggs – 4 large
  • Vanilla extract – 2 tsp
  • Baking powder – ½ tsp
  • Salt – ½ tsp
  • Chocolate chips or nuts (optional) – 1 cup

For Serving:

  • Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)
  • Ice cream or whipped cream (optional)
  • Fresh berries for garnish (optional)

These ingredients come together to create a batch of brownies that are incredibly rich and satisfying. The combination of butter, sugar, and cocoa creates a decadent treat that captures the essence of homemade goodness.

Preparation

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 12-16 brownies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Greasing the pan is essential for easy brownie removal, so prepare a 9×13 inch baking dish by greasing it with butter or lining it with parchment paper for easy removal.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

  • In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt until well combined. This step ensures that the leavening agents are evenly distributed throughout the flour and cocoa, which contributes to the brownies’ texture.

Step 3: Mix the Wet Ingredients

  • In a large mixing bowl, combine the melted butter and granulated sugar. Mix well until the sugar is fully incorporated. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition to incorporate air and create a light texture. Finally, add the vanilla extract and stir until combined.

Step 4: Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients

  • Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are perfectly fine. If you’re adding chocolate chips or nuts, gently fold them into the batter at this stage.

Step 5: Pour Batter into the Pan

  • Pour the brownie batter into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Make sure to reach the corners to ensure even baking.

Step 6: Bake

  • Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. Avoid overbaking; you want the brownies to be fudgy, not dry.

Step 7: Cool and Slice

  • Allow the brownies to cool in the pan for about 10-15 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, slice into squares or rectangles, depending on your preference.

Variations and Creative Twists

While the classic Lunchroom Ladies Brownies are delicious as is, there are plenty of variations you can try to add your own twist:

  • Frosted Brownies: Spread a layer of chocolate or cream cheese frosting on top for an extra indulgent treat.
  • Mint Brownies: Add a few drops of peppermint extract to the batter for a refreshing minty flavor. You can also top them with a mint-flavored frosting.
  • Caramel Swirl: Drizzle caramel sauce over the batter before baking and use a knife to swirl it in for a decadent caramel brownie.
  • Peanut Butter Brownies: Swirl melted peanut butter into the brownie batter before baking for a delicious combination of chocolate and peanut butter flavors.
  • Nutty Brownies: Add walnuts or pecans for added crunch and flavor. This is a classic addition that many enjoy.

These variations allow you to get creative with your brownies and cater to different taste preferences.

Cooking Notes and Tips

  • Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your eggs are at room temperature for better incorporation into the batter. This helps achieve a smoother consistency.
  • Measure Accurately: Use proper measuring techniques for flour and cocoa powder to avoid dry brownies. Spoon the flour into the measuring cup and level it off with a knife.
  • Check for Doneness: Keep an eye on the baking time, as ovens can vary. Start checking at the 25-minute mark to avoid overbaking.
  • Cooling Time: Allow the brownies to cool completely for easier slicing and to enhance their fudgy texture.

Serving Suggestions

These Lunchroom Ladies Brownies are perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a school bake sale, a family gathering, or just a sweet treat at home. Here are some serving ideas:

  • Dust with Powdered Sugar: A light dusting of powdered sugar on top adds a touch of elegance and sweetness.
  • Pair with Ice Cream: Serve warm brownies with a scoop of vanilla or chocolate ice cream for a delightful dessert experience.
  • Add Fresh Berries: Garnish with fresh raspberries or strawberries for a burst of color and flavor that complements the chocolate.
  • Create a Brownie Sundae: Stack a brownie with a scoop of ice cream, hot fudge, and whipped cream for an indulgent sundae.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 250
  • Protein: 3g
  • Carbohydrates: 36g
  • Fat: 12g
  • Sodium: 180mg

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I freeze these brownies?
Yes, you can freeze brownies! Allow them to cool completely, then wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store them in an airtight container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

Q: How do I store leftover brownies?
Store brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to keep them fresh for longer, you can refrigerate them for up to two weeks.

Q: Can I make these brownies gluten-free?
Absolutely! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. This will help maintain the texture while accommodating gluten sensitivities.

Q: How can I make these brownies richer?
For a richer flavor, consider using dark chocolate cocoa powder or adding a tablespoon of espresso powder to enhance the chocolate flavor.

Tips for Perfect Lunchroom Ladies Brownies Every Time

  • Use Quality Ingredients: Using high-quality cocoa powder and chocolate chips will elevate the flavor of your brownies.
  • Avoid Overmixing: Stir until just combined to keep the brownies fudgy and soft.
  • Experiment with Mix-Ins: Get creative with your favorite mix-ins like crushed cookies, toffee bits, or dried fruit for added flavor and texture.

These tips will help you achieve perfect brownies every time, ensuring that they remain a beloved treat for years to come.

Conclusion

Lunchroom Ladies Brownies are a nostalgic treat that captures the essence of school days and childhood memories. This classic recipe is simple to make and yields rich, fudgy brownies that are sure to delight anyone who takes a bite. Whether you enjoy them plain or dressed up with toppings, these brownies are a timeless dessert that never goes out of style.

Perfect for any occasion, from birthday parties to casual family dinners, these brownies are a hit with both kids and adults alike. So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and take a trip down memory lane with this beloved 50-year-old recipe. You’ll be creating new memories with every delicious bite!

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