Mom's Brownies

Mom's famous brownies have always been a favorite in our house. Super dense, extra chocolately, and perfectly paired with a glass of cold milk (or vanilla ice cream...or whipped cream...the list is endless). I had to make them for my sister, pictured above, as a congratulatory surprise for her interview yesterday!

I was wracking my brain trying to think of something quick, easy, and delicious but would be ready in time for when she returned. Thinking back to the other day when she claimed she was craving mom's brownies, I whipped up these babies in no time. They're the epitome of easy: all in one bowl, and the mixer does all the work- well, other than measuring that is.

Mom's Brownies

For brownies

1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened

2 cups sugar

1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

2 eggs

1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder (not Dutch processed)

2 cups flour

1 cup walnuts* optional

Make brownies:

Preheat oven to 350F and grease a 9x13 metal baking pan.

In the bowl of a standing mixer, or a large bowl with a hand held, cream together the butter and sugar until light at fluffy or about 3 minutes. Add in the vanilla, followed by the eggs one at a time. Mix on medium for another 2-3 minutes. Slowly add in the cocoa, followed by the flour, scraping down the sides to ensure even mixing. Transfer the mixture to the prepared pan and bake for 20-25 minutes or until slightly firm to the touch in the middle.