Classic Lunchroom Ladies Brownies
These Lunchroom Ladies Brownies are a nostalgic nod to cafeteria classics—thick, cakey, and topped with a fudge frosting that forms a slightly crackly crust. Unlike dense, fudgy brownies, these have a soft crumb that perfectly supports the rich, pour-over icing. The trick? Spread the glaze while the brownies are still warm so it bonds beautifully to the base.
Lunchroom Ladies Brownies Ingredients
Brownie Base:
- Butter, melted — 1 cup
- Granulated sugar — 2 cups
- All-purpose flour — 2 cups
- Eggs — 4 large
- Unsweetened cocoa powder — ½ cup
- Vanilla extract — 4 tsp
Fudge Icing:
- Powdered sugar — 3 cups
- Softened butter — ¼ cup
- Milk (whole preferred) — ¼ cup
- Unsweetened cocoa powder — ¼ cup
Instructions
1. Prep Oven & Pan
Preheat oven to 350°F. Spray a 9×13-inch pan with nonstick spray and line with parchment or foil for easy removal.
2. Mix the Batter
In a large bowl, cream together melted butter and sugar. Add eggs and vanilla; mix until smooth. Fold in flour and cocoa powder until just combined. The batter will be thick.
3. Bake
Pour batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top. Bake 20–25 minutes, testing with a toothpick (it should come out clean). Avoid overbaking—slightly soft is best.
4. Rest
Let the brownies sit for 15 minutes. They should be warm enough to slightly melt the icing but not so hot it sinks into the batter.
5. Ice While Warm
Whisk together butter, milk, cocoa, and powdered sugar until smooth. Pour over warm brownies and spread evenly.
6. Cool & Slice
Allow brownies to cool completely so the icing sets into a firm, fudgy layer. Lift out with the parchment sling and cut into squares.
