# **Lunchroom Ladies’ Legendary Brownies: A 50-Year-Old Recipe**
### **Introduction**
For over half a century, the beloved **Lunchroom Ladies’ Brownies** have been a staple in school cafeterias, family gatherings, and bake sales. This timeless recipe delivers **rich, fudgy, and decadent** brownies with a perfect balance of chewiness and crunch from chopped nuts. Whether you’re a nostalgic adult reminiscing about childhood or a new baker looking for a foolproof treat, these brownies never disappoint.
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## **Ingredients**
– **1 cup (2 sticks) butter**, melted
– **½ cup cocoa powder** (unsweetened, for deep chocolate flavor)
– **2 cups all-purpose flour**
– **2 cups granulated sugar**
– **4 large eggs**, room temperature
– **4 tsp pure vanilla extract**
– **1 cup chopped nuts** (walnuts or pecans work best)
*(Optional additions: chocolate chips, caramel swirls, or a pinch of sea salt on top!)*
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## **Step-by-Step Instructions**
### **Method 1: Classic Baking**
1. **Preheat oven** to **350°F (175°C)**. Grease a **9×13-inch baking pan** or line it with parchment paper.
2. **Melt butter** in a saucepan or microwave, then whisk in **cocoa powder** until smooth.
3. In a large bowl, **mix flour and sugar**.
4. **Add eggs and vanilla** to the chocolate-butter mixture, then combine with dry ingredients.
5. **Fold in chopped nuts**.
6. **Spread batter evenly** into the prepared pan.
7. **Bake for 25-30 minutes** (until a toothpick comes out with moist crumbs, not wet batter).
8. **Cool completely** before cutting into squares.
### **Method 2: Extra Fudgy Version**
– Reduce flour to **1½ cups** for a denser texture.
– Add **½ cup chocolate chips** to the batter.
– Underbake slightly (**22-25 minutes**) for gooey centers.
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## **The History Behind the Recipe**
This recipe was passed down from **school lunchroom ladies** in the 1970s, known for serving comforting homemade desserts to generations of students. Unlike modern boxed mixes, these brownies were made from scratch with **simple, wholesome ingredients**, earning them a cult following.
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## **Why You’ll Love These Brownies**
✔ **Rich & Chocolatey** – Deep cocoa flavor with a buttery finish.
✔ **Perfect Texture** – Crispy edges with a soft, chewy center.
✔ **Customizable** – Add-ins like nuts, marshmallows, or frosting.
✔ **Nostalgic Comfort Food** – A taste of childhood in every bite!
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## **Nutritional Benefits (In Moderation!)**
– **Antioxidants** from cocoa.
– **Protein & healthy fats** from eggs and nuts.
– **Energy-boosting** carbs for a sweet treat.
*(Note: Enjoy as an occasional indulgence!)*
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## **Conclusion: A Timeless Treat for Brownie Lovers**
Whether you’re baking for a **potluck, family dessert, or just a personal treat**, the Lunchroom Ladies’ Brownies are a **guaranteed crowd-pleaser**. Their **50-year legacy** proves that some recipes never go out of style.
**💖 Loved by generations, these brownies will steal hearts—one square at a time!**
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### **Final Tips for Brownie Lovers**
– **Storage:** Keep in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
– **Freezing:** They freeze well for up to 3 months.
– **Serving:** Best enjoyed with **a glass of milk or a scoop of vanilla ice cream**.
**Happy Baking!** 🍫✨