Description
Rich, fudgy brownies with a nostalgic flavor just like the ones from classic school cafeterias.
Ingredients
For the brownies:
1 cup butter, melted
½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
2 cups all-purpose flour
2 cups granulated sugar
4 large eggs
4 tsp vanilla extract
1 cup chopped nuts (optional)
For the frosting:
¼ cup butter, softened
¼ cup milk
¼ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
3 cups powdered sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan.
In a large bowl, whisk together melted butter and cocoa powder until smooth.
Add flour, sugar, eggs, and vanilla, mixing until well combined. Fold in nuts if using.
Spread batter evenly in the prepared pan. Bake for 25–30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with moist crumbs.
While brownies bake, prepare frosting: In a medium bowl, beat together butter, milk, cocoa powder, powdered sugar, and vanilla until smooth.
Frost brownies while still warm so the icing melts slightly into the top.
Let cool before cutting into squares.
Notes
For extra fudgy brownies, slightly underbake and chill before slicing.
You can swap the nuts for chocolate chips or leave them out entirely.
Frosting while warm is key to the authentic lunchroom brownie texture.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert, Baking, Retro Recipes
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
