Cocoa Brownies Supreme
Rich and fudgy cocoa brownies with crunchy walnuts, perfect for satisfying sweet cravings and great for gatherings or casual treats with family and friends.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F.
- Grease an 8-inch square pan.
- Cream together the shortening and sugar.
- Add vanilla and eggs; beat until light and fluffy.
- Add cocoa; mix thoroughly.
- Sift together the flour, salt, and baking powder.
- Stir in the sifted dry ingredients.
- Add 1/2 cup walnuts and mix.
- Spread mixture in the prepared 8-inch pan.
- Top with remaining walnuts.
- Bake for 25 minutes, or until done.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider substituting half of the shortening with unsweetened applesauce or butter. If you don't have walnuts, pecans or chocolate chips work well too. For an extra kick, add a pinch of espresso powder to enhance the chocolate flavor. Ensure to sift the dry ingredients well to avoid lumps, which helps in achieving a smooth batter.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these brownies warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of chocolate sauce for an indulgent dessert. They also pair beautifully with coffee or a glass of milk. For a delightful twist, try them alongside Mom-Mom'S Pumpkin Pie Squares for a festive treat.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to a week. To reheat, microwave for a few seconds or warm in the oven at 350°F for about 5-10 minutes until heated through. This maintains their fudgy texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cocoa Brownies Supreme contains roughly 179 calories, with 2g protein, 19g carbohydrates, and 7g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 493mg per serving (21% 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 fat instead of shortening?
Yes, you can substitute shortening with butter or coconut oil for a different flavor and texture. Butter will add a richer taste, while coconut oil will impart a slight coconut flavor and is a great option for vegan recipes.
What can I do if the brownies come out too dry?
If your brownies turn out dry, it may be due to overbaking. To prevent this in the future, check for doneness a few minutes before the recommended time. Also, adding a bit more fat or an extra egg can help achieve a fudgier texture.
Can I make these brownies without eggs?
Absolutely! You can replace each egg with 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce or mashed banana as a binding agent. This will give you a similar texture and moisture without using eggs, making it suitable for vegan diets.
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).