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Lunch Lady Brownies

Lunch Lady Brownies
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Lunch Lady Brownies are a rich, fudgy chocolate treat featuring a crackly top and moist interior. Made with simple pantry ingredients, these brownies are perfect for lunchboxes, snacks, or dessert. Easily customizable with nuts, chocolate chips, or peanut butter swirls, they offer a classic and versatile indulgence that’s loved by kids and adults alike.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter
  • 3/4 cup (150g) granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup (100g) brown sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
  • 3/4 cup (95g) all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup (50g) cocoa powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt

Optional Add-ins

  • 1/2 cup chocolate chips or chunks
  • 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans
  • Swirl of peanut butter (about 1/4 cup)

Instructions

  1. Prepare Your Oven and Pan: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8×8-inch square baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal and clean edges.
  2. Melt Butter and Mix Sugars: In a medium saucepan over low heat, melt the unsalted butter. Stir in the granulated and brown sugars until fully combined and smooth. Remove from heat and allow to cool slightly.
  3. Incorporate Eggs and Vanilla: Whisk in the eggs one at a time, making sure each is fully blended. Then add the vanilla extract, mixing until the batter is silky and uniform.
  4. Sift Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, and salt. This step ensures an even distribution and prevents lumps.
  5. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, being careful not to overmix. The batter should be thick and glossy. Add any optional chocolate chips or nuts at this stage if desired.
  6. Bake: Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted near the center comes out with a few moist crumbs attached.
  7. Cool and Cut: Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan before slicing into squares. This resting period helps the texture set perfectly.

Notes

  • Butter Temperature: Melt butter gently to avoid burning which can affect flavor.
  • Don’t Overmix: Fold the dry ingredients just until combined to keep brownies tender.
  • Check Early: Start checking the brownies a few minutes before the timer to avoid overbaking.
  • Use Quality Cocoa: Higher-quality cocoa powder really elevates the chocolate richness.
  • Cool Completely: Letting brownies cool thoroughly makes cutting clean and helps flavors develop.

Nutrition

Keywords: brownies, fudgy brownies, lunchbox treats, chocolate dessert, easy brownies, kid-friendly brownies

Find it online: https://jamescookes.com/lunch-lady-brownies/