Classic Lunchroom Ladies Brownies

These Lunchroom Ladies Brownies are a throwback to classic cafeteria desserts—thick, tender, and finished with a glossy fudge frosting that sets with a lightly crackled top. Unlike ultra-dense brownies, these have a soft, cake-like crumb that perfectly holds the rich icing. The key step is spreading the frosting while the brownies are still warm so it adheres seamlessly to the surface.

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
• Butter, softened — ¼ cup
• Milk (whole preferred) — ¼ cup
• Unsweetened cocoa powder — ¼ cup

Instructions

1. Prepare the Pan and Oven

Preheat the oven to 350°F. Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan with nonstick spray and line with parchment paper or foil for easy removal.

2. Make the Batter

In a large bowl, mix the melted butter and sugar until combined. Add the eggs and vanilla, stirring until smooth. Gently fold in the flour and cocoa powder just until incorporated. The batter will be thick.

3. Bake

Spread the batter evenly in the prepared pan. Bake for 20–25 minutes, checking doneness with a toothpick—it should come out clean. Do not overbake; a slightly soft center is ideal.

4. Rest Briefly

Allow the brownies to rest for about 15 minutes. They should be warm enough to help the icing melt slightly without soaking into the brownies.

5. Frost While Warm

Whisk together the softened butter, milk, cocoa powder, and powdered sugar until smooth. Pour the icing over the warm brownies and spread evenly.

6. Cool and Cut

Let the brownies cool completely so the frosting firms into a rich, fudgy layer. Remove from the pan using the parchment or foil and slice into squares.