school cafeteria brownies

Name: Delicious Fudge Marble Brownies
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 60 min
Ingredients: 1.5 cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 0.5 teaspoon salt; 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1.25 cups granulated sugar; 1 cup unsalted butter (melted); 3 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips (*Optional* for extra chocolate flavor)

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By: Maria
Posted: 05/29/2025

Who doesn’t love a bit of nostalgia with their dessert? These school cafeteria brownies are a trip down memory lane, bringing back the chewy texture and rich chocolate flavor that you adored during your school days. With a hint of simplicity, they’re perfect for any occasion.

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Growing up, I remember eagerly waiting for dessert time at school just to get my hands on those delicious brownies. My mother learned the secret recipe from our school chef, and it has been a family treasure ever since. Making them now, I feel a sweet connection to my past, reminiscing every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This brownie recipe is as straightforward as it gets, promising consistent results every time. With minimal ingredients, it is not only budget-friendly but also perfect for baking with kids. The balance of chewiness and fudginess makes these treats irresistible. Plus, they evoke cherished memories, adding a nostalgic touch to your dessert table.

Ingredients Notes

Using high-quality cocoa powder elevates the flavor of these brownies tremendously. If you’re seeking a nutty twist, consider adding chopped walnuts. Unsalted butter is the base; however, salted butter can work just as well—just skip the extra pinch of salt.

Recipe Steps

Step 1

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking pan. This temperature is ideal for baking brownies evenly.

Step 2

In a large bowl, melt the butter and stir in the sugar until you achieve a smooth blend. The richness of the buttery base is key for that classic flavor.

Step 3

Incorporate the eggs and vanilla extract, then mix until well combined to introduce air, ensuring the brownies rise slightly.

Step 4

Sift cocoa powder, flour, and salt into the wet ingredients, gradually folding to avoid lumps. Over-mixing can result in tough brownies, so be gentle.

Step 5

Pour the batter into your prepared baking pan and bake for 20-25 minutes. Insert a toothpick to test doneness—some crumbs are okay, but it shouldn’t come out too gooey.

Storage Options

Once cooled, store brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze individually wrapped brownies. Defrost to room temperature or warm them briefly in the oven for that freshly baked feel.

Variations & Substitutions

For a gluten-free version, substitute all-purpose flour with almond flour. Want to amp up the flavor? Swirl in some Peanut Butter before baking or sprinkle sea salt on top for that sweet-salty combo.

Serving Suggestions

These brownies pair beautifully with a scoop of vanilla Ice Cream or fresh strawberries. Perfect for birthday parties, picnics, or simply as a delightful treat with your afternoon tea.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different pan size? Yes, just adjust the baking time accordingly. A smaller pan yields thicker brownies, requiring a slightly longer bake time, whereas a larger pan may cook them quicker.

How can I make them extra fudgy? Increase the butter and decrease the flour slightly. Alternatively, you can reduce the baking time by a couple of minutes for a gooier center.

Can I add toppings? Absolutely! Chocolate chips, crushed nuts, or a simple powdered sugar dusting all make excellent toppings. Add them before baking for baked-in texture or after for a decorative touch.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make these brownies ahead of time?

Yes, you can absolutely make these brownies ahead of time. Once cooled, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, wrap individual brownies tightly and freeze them for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw at room temperature or warm them briefly in the oven for a fresh-baked experience.

Are there ingredient substitutions I can make?

Yes, there are several substitutions you can try. For a gluten-free option, replace the all-purpose flour with almond flour using a 1:1 ratio. If you don’t have unsalted butter, salted butter works just as well; simply omit the added salt in the recipe. You can also add chopped walnuts or swirl in peanut butter for different flavor profiles.

How do I know when the brownies are perfectly baked?

The brownies are perfectly baked when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs attached, but not completely gooey. They should also have a slightly cracked surface. The baking time is typically 20-25 minutes at 350°F (175°C), but always check for doneness starting at the 20-minute mark, as oven temperatures can vary.

Can I scale this recipe up to make more brownies?

Yes, you can double or even triple this recipe, but you’ll need to adjust your baking pan size and potentially the baking time. If doubling, use a larger pan, such as a 9×13 inch pan, and the baking time may increase slightly. Keep a close eye on the brownies and check for doneness as described above. Adjust ingredient quantities proportionally for best results.

What is the nutritional value of these brownies?

These brownies provide a good source of energy from the butter, sugar, and flour, with some protein from the eggs. Cocoa powder contributes antioxidants. While these are a treat, the use of quality ingredients like unsalted butter and high-quality cocoa powder can enhance the overall flavor and enjoyment. Consider portion size for a balanced approach.

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Delicious Fudge Marble Brownies

Classic homemade fudge marble brownies with a decadent chocolate swirl capturing the essence of childhood baking memories.

Prep : 10 Total : 25 minutes

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Ingredients

Main Ingredients

1.5 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
0.5 teaspoon salt
1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1.25 cups granulated sugar
1 cup unsalted butter melted
3 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips *Optional* for extra chocolate flavor

Instructions

Preparation Steps

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish and line it with parchment paper.
In a medium bowl, mix together the flour, baking powder, salt, and cocoa powder. Set aside.
In a large bowl, blend the melted butter and sugar until the mixture is smooth.
Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each. Stir in the vanilla extract.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined. Do not overmix.
Fold in the chocolate chips, if using.
Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly. Bake for 35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.