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Lunch Lady Brownies


  • Author: Sarah
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 24 small brownies 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

Thick, fudgy, and topped with a sweet, glossy chocolate frosting, these Lunch Lady Brownies are a nostalgic, no-frills dessert that delivers maximum chocolate comfort. Inspired by the classic cafeteria treat, this easy homemade version is chewy, rich, and perfect for bake sales, potlucks, or family desserts. Made with simple pantry staples and full of old-school charm, these brownies are guaranteed to bring a smile to every bite.


Ingredients

Scale

For the Brownies:

  • 1 cup unsalted butter (melted)

  • 2 cups granulated sugar

  • 4 large eggs

  • 1 tbsp vanilla extract

  • 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour

  • 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder

  • 1/2 tsp salt

  • 1/2 tsp baking powder

For the Frosting:

  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter (melted)

  • 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder

  • 1/4 cup milk

  • 2 cups powdered sugar

  • 1 tsp vanilla extract


Instructions

  • Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper.

  • In a large bowl, stir melted butter and granulated sugar until combined. Add eggs and vanilla; whisk until smooth.

  • In a separate bowl, sift together flour, cocoa powder, salt, and baking powder.

  • Gradually fold dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined. Do not overmix.

  • Pour batter into prepared baking dish and spread evenly.

  • Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with moist crumbs.

  • While brownies bake, prepare the frosting: Mix melted butter, cocoa powder, milk, powdered sugar, and vanilla until smooth.

  • Spread frosting over brownies while they are still warm.

 

  • Allow brownies to cool completely before slicing.

Notes

Use high-quality cocoa powder for deeper chocolate flavor.

Spread the frosting while brownies are warm for the smoothest, melt-in effect.

Store in the fridge if you prefer a firmer frosting.

Let brownies cool completely for clean slicing.

Add chopped nuts or mini chocolate chips for extra texture.

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

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