Lunch Lady Brownies 

These nostalgic brownies are a throwback to school cafeteria days, known for their rich, fudgy texture and glossy chocolate frosting. They're perfect for bake sales, family gatherings, or whenever you're craving a sweet treat.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

For the Brownies:

• 1 cup unsalted butter, melted

• ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder

• 2 cups all purpose flour

• 2 cups granulated sugar

• 4 large eggs

• 4 teaspoons vanilla extract

• ½ teaspoon salt

• 1 teaspoon baking powder

For the Frosting:

• ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened

• ¼ cup milk

• 3 cups powdered sugar

• ¼ cup unsweetened cocoa powder

• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract

Directions

1. Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, allowing some overhang for easy removal later.

2. Prepare Brownie Batter: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the melted butter and granulated sugar until smooth. Add the cocoa powder and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined. Incorporate the eggs, one at a time, ensuring each is fully blended before adding the next. Stir in the flour, salt, and baking powder until just combined; the batter will be thick.

3. Bake Brownies: Spread the batter evenly into the prepared pan. Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out mostly clean with a few moist crumbs. Allow the brownies to cool for about 10–15 minutes before frosting.

4. Prepare Frosting: While the brownies are cooling, make the frosting. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the milk and cocoa powder until smooth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then remove from heat. Gradually whisk in the powdered sugar and vanilla extract until the frosting is smooth and glossy.

5. Frost Brownies: Pour the warm frosting over the cooled brownies, spreading it evenly to cover the entire surface. Let the frosting set for about 30 minutes before slicing into squares.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 540 kcal

• Carbohydrates: 83 g

• Protein: 5 g

• Fat: 22 g

• Saturated Fat: 13 g

• Polyunsaturated Fat: 1 g

• Monounsaturated Fat: 6 g

• Trans Fat: 1 g

• Cholesterol: 106 mg

• Sodium: 292 mg

• Potassium: 145 mg

• Fiber: 2 g

• Sugar: 64 g

• Vitamin A: 678 IU

• Calcium: 31 mg

• Iron: 2 mg