Lunch Lady Brownies

These Lunch Lady Brownies are the perfect blend of nostalgia and deliciousness! Reminiscent of the sweet, fudgy treats served in school cafeterias, these brownies take it up a notch with their rich flavors and colorful sprinkles. Ideal for school lunches, potlucks, or simply as an after-dinner dessert, they will surely delight kids and adults alike.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Nostalgic Flavor: These brownies bring back fond memories of school days while offering an improved taste.
• Fudgy Texture: With a rich, moist interior, every bite melts in your mouth.
• Easy to Make: Simple steps make this recipe accessible for bakers of all skill levels.
• Customizable Toppings: Feel free to swap out sprinkles for nuts or other toppings based on your preference.
• Perfect for Sharing: With 24 servings, they’re great for parties or family gatherings.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start baking these tasty Lunch Lady Brownies, gather the essential tools to make the process smooth and efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Baking pan (9×13 inches)
• Spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients without mess.
• Whisk: Helps achieve a smooth batter by thoroughly mixing eggs and dry ingredients.
• Baking pan: Ensures even cooking and proper brownie shape.
• Spatula: Perfect for spreading frosting evenly over the brownies.

Ingredients

These lunch lady brownies are extra fudgy and filled with nostalgia! They’re just like those thin and sweet brownies they would serve in the school cafeteria…only these are way better. And with sprinkles!

For the Brownies

• 1 cup (220g) unsalted butter, melted
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil
• 1/2 cup (50g) unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 2 cups (265g) all purpose flour
• 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
• 1 cup (200g) dark brown sugar, packed
• 4 large eggs, room temp
• 1 tbsp vanilla extract

For the Frosting

• 1/4 cup (55g) unsalted butter, softened
• Pinch of salt
• 1/4 cup (25g) unsweetened cocoa powder
• 2 1/2 cups (270g) powdered sugar
• 1/4 cup (55g) milk
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• Rainbow sprinkles

How to Make Lunch Lady Brownies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease your baking pan with butter or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.

Step 2: Prepare the Brownie Batter

In a large mixing bowl:
1. Combine melted butter, vegetable oil, granulated sugar, and dark brown sugar.
2. Whisk until well blended.
3. Add in eggs one at a time, followed by vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.

Then:
4. In another bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, and salt.
5. Gradually add dry ingredients into the wet mixture. Stir until just combined; avoid overmixing.

Step 3: Bake the Brownies

Pour brownie batter into the prepared pan:
1. Spread evenly using a spatula.
2. Bake in preheated oven for about 20 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.

Step 4: Make the Frosting

While brownies cool:
1. In a mixing bowl, beat softened butter until creamy.
2. Gradually add cocoa powder and powdered sugar, alternating with milk.
3. Blend until smooth; stir in vanilla extract.

Step 5: Frost & Decorate

Once brownies are completely cooled:
1. Spread frosting evenly over the top using a spatula.
2. Finish off with rainbow sprinkles for that nostalgic touch!

Enjoy your homemade Lunch Lady Brownies! They’re sure to bring back delicious memories while creating new ones!

How to Serve Lunch Lady Brownies

These lunch lady brownies are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. Whether you’re serving them at a party or just enjoying them at home, here are some fun serving suggestions.

Classic with a Twist

• Serve the brownies warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top for an indulgent dessert.

Brownie Sundae

• Create a brownie sundae by layering chunks of brownies with whipped cream, chocolate sauce, and nuts.

School Cafeteria Style

• Cut the brownies into neat squares and serve them on a colorful cafeteria tray for a nostalgic touch.

Themed Parties

• Decorate the brownies with seasonal sprinkles or toppings to match your party theme.

Pair with Milk

• Offer cold milk or chocolate milk alongside for a classic combination that everyone loves.

Snack Packs

• Pack individual brownies in snack bags for a sweet treat on-the-go.

How to Perfect Lunch Lady Brownies

To make these lunch lady brownies truly special, follow these helpful tips for the best results.

• Use room temperature eggs: This helps the ingredients combine better and gives your brownies a smoother texture.
• Don’t overmix: Stir just until combined to keep your brownies fudgy and soft.
• Check for doneness: Insert a toothpick in the center; it should come out with moist crumbs, not clean.
• Let them cool completely: Allowing the brownies to cool will help them set up nicely before cutting.

Best Side Dishes for Lunch Lady Brownies

While lunch lady brownies shine on their own, pairing them with side dishes can elevate your dessert experience. Here are some delightful options.

1. Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances the sweetness of the brownies.
2. Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream complements the fudginess perfectly.
3. Chocolate Milkshake: A thick shake pairs wonderfully and makes for an indulgent treat.
4. Coffee: A cup of coffee enhances flavors and offers a nice contrast to the sweetness.
5. Whipped Cream: Dollop fresh whipped cream on top for added richness.
6. Caramel Sauce: Drizzle warm caramel sauce over the brownies for an extra touch of sweetness.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Lunch Lady Brownies can be straightforward, but a few common mistakes can ruin your nostalgic treat. Here are some pitfalls to avoid.

• Using cold eggs: Cold eggs can affect the batter’s consistency. Always use room temperature eggs for better mixing.
• Overmixing the batter: Overmixing can lead to tough brownies. Mix until just combined for that perfect fudgy texture.
• Not measuring ingredients accurately: Using incorrect measurements can alter the recipe. Use a kitchen scale or measuring cups for precision.
• Skipping the cooling time: Cutting brownies too soon results in a messy slice. Allow them to cool completely before cutting for neat squares.
• Ignoring the oven temperature: Baking at the wrong temperature can cause uneven cooking. Make sure your oven is preheated and accurate.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store brownies in an airtight container.
• They last up to 5 days in the fridge.
• Place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.

Freezing Lunch Lady Brownies

• Wrap individual brownies tightly in plastic wrap.
• Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Lunch Lady Brownies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Warm individual pieces on medium power for 15-20 seconds.
• Stovetop: Place brownies in a skillet over low heat, cover with a lid, and warm for about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Lunch Lady Brownies so special?

Lunch Lady Brownies are beloved for their fudgy texture and nostalgic flavor, reminiscent of school days. The sprinkles add a fun touch!

Can I substitute ingredients in the Lunch Lady Brownie recipe?

Yes! You can swap unsweetened cocoa powder with dark chocolate or use different sugars. Experiment with flavors like mint or peanut butter!

How do I know when my Lunch Lady Brownies are done?

The edges should look set while the center remains slightly soft. A toothpick inserted should come out with a few moist crumbs.

Can I make these brownies gluten-free?

Absolutely! Just use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend as a substitute for regular flour.

How long do Lunch Lady Brownies last after baking?

They last about 5 days at room temperature or up to 5 days in the refrigerator when stored properly.

Final Thoughts

These Lunch Lady Brownies are not just a delightful dessert; they also evoke sweet memories of school lunches! Their simplicity allows for endless customization—add nuts, flavored extracts, or even different toppings like caramel. Try making them today and enjoy this classic treat!