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Lunch Lady Brownies


  • Author: Ellie
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 20 brownies 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

Lunch Lady Brownies are a nostalgic, ultra-fudgy dessert that brings back memories of classic school cafeteria treats. With a dense, chewy texture and rich, crackly chocolate frosting, they’re easy to make and even easier to love. Simple ingredients, a one-bowl batter, and a glossy icing poured while warm create an irresistibly gooey brownie that’s perfect for bake sales, potlucks, or cozy indulgence at home.


Ingredients

Scale
  • Brownies:

    • 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter

    • 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder

    • 2 cups granulated sugar

    • 4 large eggs

    • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

    • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

    • 1/2 teaspoon salt

  • Frosting:

    • 1/4 cup (1/2 stick) butter

    • 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder

    • 1/4 cup milk or heavy cream

    • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

    • 2 1/2 cups powdered sugar


Instructions

  1. Preheat & Prepare Pan:
    Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper.

  2. Make Brownie Batter:
    Melt butter, then stir in cocoa powder until smooth. Add sugar, eggs, and vanilla. Mix well. Fold in flour and salt until just combined—do not overmix.

  3. Bake:
    Pour batter into the pan and smooth the top. Bake for 25–30 minutes, until a toothpick inserted comes out with moist crumbs.

  4. Prepare Frosting:
    While brownies bake, melt butter in a saucepan. Stir in cocoa, milk, and vanilla. Remove from heat and whisk in powdered sugar until smooth.

  5. Frost Warm Brownies:
    Let brownies cool for 5 minutes, then spread frosting evenly while still warm.

  6. Cool & Slice:
    Allow brownies to cool completely so the frosting sets. Cut into squares and serve.

Notes

Slightly underbake for extra fudgy texture.

Frosting will melt slightly into the warm brownies—this is what gives them their gooey charm.

Use a hot knife to slice cleanly after cooling.

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Keywords: lunch lady brownies, fudgy brownies, school brownies, classic brownies, easy chocolate dessert