Betty Smith'S Brownies
Rich, fudgy brownies with a hint of coffee and cocoa, topped with frosting. Perfect for chocolate lovers, versatile for any occasion or dessert craving.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and sugar.
- In a heavy saucepan, combine butter, shortening, cocoa, and coffee.
- Stir and heat to boiling.
- Pour boiling mixture over flour and sugar mixture.
- Add buttermilk, eggs, baking soda, and vanilla.
- Mix well using a wooden spoon or high-speed electric mixer.
- Pour batter into a well-buttered 11 x 17 1/2-inch pan.
- Bake at 400°F for 20 minutes.
- Pour frosting over brownies as soon as they come out of the oven.
- Cool and cut into 48 bars.
- Enjoy!
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using unsweetened dark chocolate cocoa instead of regular cocoa. You can substitute applesauce for half of the margarine or butter for a lower-fat option. Ensure your coffee is strong, as it enhances the overall taste. If you prefer a nutty texture, feel free to mix in chopped walnuts or pecans before baking.
Serving Suggestions
These brownies are delicious on their own, but you can elevate them by serving with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of chocolate sauce. They pair beautifully with a cup of strong coffee or a glass of cold milk. For a festive touch, consider dusting with powdered sugar or serving with fresh berries to complement their rich chocolate flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze them in single layers separated by parchment paper and keep them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply microwave a piece for 10-15 seconds until warm, or enjoy them cold for a fudgier texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Betty Smith'S Brownies contains roughly 64 calories, with 1g protein, 5g carbohydrates, and 3g fat.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use different types of flour for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a heartier texture, but the brownies may be denser. Gluten-free flour blends can also work, though the texture may vary. It's best to use a blend specifically designed for baking to achieve the best results.
What can I do if my brownies are too dry?
If your brownies turn out dry, try reducing the baking time slightly or adding a bit more liquid, like an extra tablespoon of buttermilk. You can also serve them warm with a scoop of ice cream to add moisture and richness. For next time, ensure not to overmix the batter, as this can lead to dryness.
How can I make these brownies more chocolatey?
To enhance the chocolate flavor, you can add chocolate chips or chunks into the batter before baking. You might also consider increasing the amount of cocoa powder to 1/3 cup, but be mindful of the balance with sugar. Pairing with a rich fudge frosting can also intensify the chocolate experience.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).