Brownie Squares
Chewy, rich brownie squares with walnuts and a hint of vanilla, perfect for satisfying chocolate cravings and suitable for dessert or snack gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Heat oven to 350°F and prepare an 8-inch square pan with vegetable pan coating.
- In a medium saucepan, melt margarine and unsweetened chocolate over medium heat; then cool.
- Add sugar, egg, and vanilla extract; mix well.
- Add oat bran cereal, all-purpose flour, and 1/4 cup chopped walnuts; mix just until well blended.
- Spread the batter into the prepared pan.
- Sprinkle remaining chopped walnuts on top.
- Bake for about 18 minutes or until the brownie is firm to the touch.
- Cool and cut into squares.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, you can substitute butter for margarine, and consider using dark chocolate instead of unsweetened chocolate for a more intense taste. If you don't have oat bran cereal, wheat bran or ground oats are good alternatives. Ensure to mix the batter gently to avoid overworking it, which can lead to a tougher brownie. For a twist, add a pinch of sea salt on top before baking.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these brownie squares warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert. They pair beautifully with a cup of coffee or tea. For a fun twist, try drizzling melted chocolate or caramel sauce on top or serve alongside fresh berries for a pop of color. These brownies also make an excellent treat for gatherings or casual get-togethers.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover brownie squares in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to a week or freeze for up to three months. To reheat, place them in a microwave for 10-15 seconds or warm them in a low oven until just heated through, which will restore some of their original texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Brownie Squares contains roughly 672 calories, with 9g protein, 53g carbohydrates, and 41g fat. It is a good source of protein (18% of the Daily Value), iron (15% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (10% of the Daily Value).
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 a different type of nut instead of walnuts?
Absolutely! You can substitute walnuts with pecans, almonds, or even chocolate chips for a different texture and flavor. If you're looking for a nut-free option, simply omit the nuts altogether, and the brownies will still be delicious.
What should I do if I don't have an 8-inch square pan?
If you don't have an 8-inch square pan, you can use a similar-sized round pan or even a 9-inch square pan, just keep in mind that baking times may vary slightly. Check for doneness a couple of minutes earlier if using a larger pan.
Can I make these brownies gluten-free?
Yes, you can make these brownies gluten-free by substituting the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure to choose a blend that is suitable for baking to ensure the best texture and flavor.
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).