Lunchroom Ladies 50 year old recipe

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Introduction

Lunchroom Ladies Brownies are a beloved treat that takes us back to simpler times in school cafeterias. These brownies were a staple of lunch menus, cherished for their fudgy texture, glossy frosting, and satisfying sweetness. Perfect for dessert or snack, this recipe embodies the charm of homemade goodness and brings warm memories of community and comfort.

Origin and Cultural Significance

This recipe dates back over 50 years and gained popularity in school lunchrooms across the United States during the mid-20th century. The “lunchroom ladies” were celebrated for their ability to create delicious, budget-friendly desserts that could feed a crowd while satisfying every sweet tooth. These brownies became a symbol of American school nostalgia, representing the era when everything was made from scratch with care and attention to detail.

Ingredients Quantity

For the Brownies

  • 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, melted
  • ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 2 cups granulated sugar
  • 4 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1½ cups all-purpose flour
  • ½ teaspoon salt

For the Frosting

  • ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened
  • ¼ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • ¼ cup milk (more if needed for consistency)
  • 2 cups powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Optional Additions

  • ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch
  • ½ cup chocolate chips for extra richness
  • A pinch of espresso powder to enhance the chocolate flavor
  • A sprinkle of sea salt on top for contrast

Tips for Success

  1. Don’t Overmix: When combining wet and dry ingredients, stir until just combined to maintain a tender texture.
  2. Use High-Quality Cocoa: Good cocoa powder makes all the difference in flavor.
  3. Timing is Key: Slightly underbake for fudgy brownies or bake fully for a more cake-like texture.
  4. Spread Frosting While Warm: For the best glossy finish, spread the frosting while the brownies are still slightly warm.
  5. Line Your Pan: Use parchment paper for easy removal and clean edges.

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Brownies

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together the melted butter and cocoa powder until smooth.
  3. Add the sugar and mix well.
  4. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.
  5. Gradually fold in the flour and salt until just combined.
  6. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly.
  7. Bake for 25–30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with moist crumbs.

Step 2: Prepare the Frosting

  1. While the brownies bake, prepare the frosting by combining the butter, cocoa powder, milk, and vanilla in a medium bowl.
  2. Gradually add powdered sugar, beating until smooth and spreadable. Adjust with milk for the desired consistency.

Step 3: Frost and Cool

  1. Once the brownies are out of the oven, let them cool slightly for about 10 minutes.
  2. Spread the frosting over the warm brownies.
  3. Allow the brownies to cool completely before cutting into squares.

Description

Lunchroom Ladies Brownies are incredibly rich and fudgy, with a dense chocolate base and a creamy, chocolatey frosting that sets to a shiny finish. The balance of sweetness and cocoa is just right, and the frosting adds a layer of indulgence that makes each bite unforgettable.

Nutritional Information (per serving, based on 16 servings)

  • Calories: 290
  • Total Fat: 14g
  • Saturated Fat: 9g
  • Cholesterol: 70mg
  • Sodium: 125mg
  • Carbohydrates: 38g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Sugar: 30g
  • Protein: 3g

Conclusion

Lunchroom Ladies Brownies are a timeless dessert that continues to win hearts across generations. This recipe is not only a delicious treat but also a nostalgic journey back to the warmth of school cafeterias and homemade desserts made with love.

Recommendation

Pair these brownies with a cold glass of milk or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the ultimate indulgence. Share them with family and friends to create new memories tied to this old-fashioned classic.

Embracing Healthful Indulgence

While these brownies are undeniably indulgent, you can enjoy them in moderation as part of a balanced lifestyle. Use whole-grain flour or reduce the sugar slightly for a lighter version, and relish every bite guilt-free, knowing you’re savoring a cherished tradition.

Let me know if you’d like to tweak the recipe further or add additional details!

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