Lunch Lady Brownies Recipe
These nostalgic Lunch Lady Brownies feature a perfectly fudgy brownie base topped with signature glossy chocolate frosting. The secret to their authentic texture is frosting the brownies while still warm, creating that iconic bond between brownie and topping. With special additions of espresso powder to enhance the chocolate flavor and corn syrup for that perfect frosting sheen, these brownies are a delicious tribute to cafeteria classics but with elevated taste and texture.Perfect for bake sales, family gatherings, or whenever you need a reliable chocolate dessert that brings back childhood memories. These brownies keep well for several days and can be frozen for longer storage.
Ingredients
For the Brownies:
- 1 cup 2 sticks unsalted butter, melted
- ½ cup cocoa powder Dutch-processed for deeper flavor
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs room temperature
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
- Secret ingredient: 1 tablespoon espresso powder enhances chocolate flavor without adding coffee taste
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1⅔ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
For the Signature Frosting:
- ¼ cup ½ stick unsalted butter
- ¼ cup whole milk
- 3 tablespoons cocoa powder
- Secret ingredient: 1 tablespoon light corn syrup creates that signature sheen
- 2½ cups powdered sugar sifted
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
Making the Brownies:
- Preheat and prepare: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 13×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal. Lightly grease any exposed sides.
- Mix wet ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together melted butter and cocoa powder until smooth. Add the sugar and mix until well combined.
- Incorporate eggs: Add eggs one at a time, whisking well after each addition. The mixture should become smooth and glossy.
- Add flavorings: Stir in vanilla extract, espresso powder, and salt, mixing until completely incorporated.
- Fold in dry ingredients: Gently fold in the flour and baking powder using a spatula, mixing just until no dry streaks remain. Overmixing can make brownies tough.
- Transfer and bake: Pour the batter into your prepared pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Bake for 22-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. The brownies should still be slightly soft in the center.
- Cool briefly: Allow the brownies to cool in the pan for just 5 minutes while you prepare the frosting. Don't let them cool completely—the warm brownies help the frosting spread evenly and create that signature finish.
Making the Signature Frosting:
- Combine base ingredients: In a medium saucepan, combine butter, milk, cocoa powder, and corn syrup over medium heat.
- Heat and stir: Bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring constantly to prevent scorching. Once it begins to bubble around the edges, remove from heat.
- Add remaining ingredients: Immediately add powdered sugar, vanilla, and salt. Whisk vigorously until the frosting is smooth and glossy.
- Frost immediately: Pour the warm frosting over the still-warm brownies, spreading quickly with a spatula to create an even layer. The frosting will begin to set rather quickly.
- Cool completely: Allow the brownies to cool completely at room temperature, which gives the frosting time to set properly.
Notes
Nutrition Information (per serving)
- Calories: 285
- Total Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Cholesterol: 62mg
- Sodium: 98mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 38g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars : 28g
- Protein: 3g