Grammy Keef'S Homemade Brownies

Prep: 20 min Cook: 35 min Serves: 12 Cuisine: American

These homemade brownies are rich, fudgy, and bursting with chocolate flavor, perfect for satisfying any sweet tooth. With a moist texture and deep chocolate taste, they are ideal for casual gatherings or as a delightful treat to enjoy with family and friends. Their simple ingredients make them easy to prepare and irresistibly delicious.

Be the first to rate this recipe

Ingredients

  • 1 cup shortening (Crisco)
  • 4 squares semi-sweet baking chocolate
  • 4 eggs
  • 2 cups sugar
  • 2 cups pastry flour (Softasilk)
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla

Instructions

  1. Add shortening to the semi-sweet baking chocolate and melt in a double boiler.
  2. Beat the eggs in a large mixing bowl.
  3. Gradually add sugar to the eggs while beating.
  4. Add the melted chocolate mixture and beat well.
  5. Sift the pastry flour and salt together, then add to the mixture.
  6. Add vanilla extract and mix until combined.
  7. Pour the batter into a greased 8 x 12-inch pan and bake at 350°F for 35 minutes.

Tips & Substitutions

For an extra fudgy brownie, consider using unsweetened cocoa powder instead of some of the pastry flour. You can also replace shortening with unsalted butter for a richer flavor. Ensure the chocolate is completely melted before mixing to avoid lumps. If you prefer a nutty texture, fold in chopped walnuts or pecans. These brownies are a classic among American recipes and are perfect for any occasion.

Serving Suggestions

These brownies are delicious on their own, but you can elevate them by serving with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or drizzling with chocolate sauce. They also pair nicely with a dollop of whipped cream or fresh berries for a refreshing contrast. For a fun twist, try serving them alongside Lime-Cheese Congealed Salad for a unique flavor combination.

Storage & Reheating

Store leftover brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to a week. To reheat, simply microwave a piece for about 10-15 seconds, or warm in a preheated oven at 300°F for about 5 minutes to restore their fudgy texture.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Grammy Keef'S Homemade Brownies contains roughly 633 calories, with 3g protein, 42g carbohydrates, and 43g fat.

633 kcal 32% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 3.2g 6% DV
Total Fat 42.7g 55% DV
Carbs 42.2g 15% DV
Fiber 0.9g 3% DV
Sugar 4.3g 9% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 278.7mg 12% DV
Potassium 314.8mg 7% DV
Cholesterol 103.2mg 34% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 25.2mcg 3% DV
Vitamin C 7.4mg 8% DV
Calcium 99.8mg 8% DV
Iron 0.9mg 5% DV
Contains Egg Wheat/Gluten

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 substitute the shortening for something else?

Yes, you can substitute the shortening with an equal amount of unsalted butter for a richer flavor. If you're looking for a dairy-free option, use coconut oil, although it might slightly alter the taste.

What can I add to the brownies for extra flavor?

You can enhance the flavor by adding a teaspoon of espresso powder to the melted chocolate mixture or incorporating chocolate chips, nuts, or even a swirl of peanut butter for added richness and texture.

How do I know when the brownies are done baking?

The brownies are done when the edges start to pull away from the pan and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. Be careful not to overbake, as they continue to set as they cool.

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).

American recipes → Vegetarian recipes → All recipes →