Description
Grandma's Brownies are a classic, rich, and fudgy chocolate treat with a luscious milk chocolate frosting. Perfectly moist with a deep cocoa flavor, these brownies are topped with a smooth, sweet glaze that hardens as it cools, making them ideal for any occasion or dessert craving.
Ingredients
Brownie Batter
- 3 sticks (24 tablespoons) unsalted butter, room temperature
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs, room temperature
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup milk (suggest using 2% or whole)
Frosting
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, room temperature
- 6 tablespoons milk (use at least 2% milk fat)
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 cup milk chocolate chips
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spray a 9×13-inch baking pan with non-stick spray or line it with parchment paper, ensuring the parchment hangs over the edges for easy removal of brownies later.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: Using a stand mixer with a paddle attachment or a hand mixer, cream the 3 sticks of room temperature butter with 2 cups granulated sugar until the mixture is smooth, light, and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time along with the vanilla extract, mixing well after each addition. Scrape the sides of the bowl as needed to ensure even mixing.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the cocoa powder, flour, and 1/2 teaspoon salt until well combined.
- Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Alternately add the dry ingredients and 1 cup of milk to the creamed butter mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined. Start with dry ingredients, then milk, dry ingredients, milk, and finish with dry ingredients to maintain a smooth batter without overmixing.
- Bake the Brownies: Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread it evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. Once baked, allow the brownies to cool for 20-30 minutes but keep them slightly warm for the frosting application.
- Prepare the Frosting: In a medium saucepan, combine 6 tablespoons butter, 6 tablespoons milk, and 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar. Heat over medium-high heat until the mixture comes to a boil. Boil for one minute, then remove from heat. Whisk in 1/2 teaspoon salt and 1 cup milk chocolate chips vigorously until smooth and glossy.
- Frost the Brownies: Immediately pour the warm frosting over the slightly warm brownies. Spread quickly and evenly using an offset spatula before the frosting begins to harden. Let the frosted brownies set at room temperature for at least one hour before cutting into 24 squares.
Notes
- Using parchment paper makes removing and cutting brownies much easier and cleaner.
- Ensure eggs and butter are at room temperature for better mixing and texture.
- The frosting hardens quickly so spread it immediately after whisking until smooth.
- These brownies can be stored at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 3 days or refrigerated for up to a week.
- Letting brownies cool slightly before frosting prevents the glaze from melting and ensures a shiny finish.