Lunch Lady Brownies

These Lunch Lady Brownies bring back all the nostalgic, gooey, chocolatey goodness of classic school cafeteria treats. They’re tender, rich, and topped with a simple cocoa frosting that melts slightly into the warm brownies, creating an irresistibly fudgy finish. Quick to mix and perfect for potlucks, bake sales, or indulging your inner child, this recipe delivers that beloved old-fashioned brownie texture and flavor.

Ingredients

For the Brownies:

• 1/2 cup butter, melted
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 eggs
• 3 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 cup all-purpose flour

For the Frosting:

• 2 tablespoons butter, softened
• 3 tablespoons milk
• 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F and line a 9×9-inch baking pan with foil, allowing overhang for lifting.
2. Cream melted butter and sugar together until lighter in color and texture.
3. Add eggs and vanilla; mix until fully combined.
4. Gently mix in cocoa powder and flour just until the batter is uniform.
5. Pour batter into the prepared pan and bake 20–25 minutes, until a knife inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.
6. While brownies cool slightly, make the frosting by mixing butter, milk, cocoa powder, and powdered sugar until smooth.
7. Spread frosting over warm brownies so it melts slightly into the surface.
8. Cool, lift from pan using the foil, and cut into squares.

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 25 minutes | Total Time: 35 minutes
Kcal: ~220 kcal | Servings: 9

Tips

• Don’t overbake—slightly underdone gives the classic soft cafeteria texture.
• Adjust frosting by adding milk for creaminess or powdered sugar for thickness.

FAQ

Can I double the recipe?
Yes—bake in a 9×13-inch pan and adjust time slightly.

Can I add nuts or chocolate chips?
Absolutely; fold in 1/2 cup of your favorite mix-ins.

Do these freeze well?
Yes—freeze cut brownies in an airtight container for up to 2 months.

Why frost while warm?
It helps the frosting melt just enough to create that signature glossy, fudgy top.