Grandma Bea'S Brownies
Rich, fudgy brownies with deep chocolate flavor and crunchy nuts, perfect for satisfying sweet cravings or sharing at gatherings with friends and family.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cream together sugar and margarine.
- Add eggs to the creamed mixture and beat well.
- Stir in flour, baking powder, and salt until just combined.
- Add melted chocolate and chopped nuts to the batter and mix well.
- Grease the bottom of an 8 x 8-inch pan.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow the brownies to cool completely, then sprinkle with powdered sugar.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider substituting half of the margarine with unsweetened applesauce or using butter instead. If you prefer a nut-free version, you can omit the chopped nuts or replace them with crystallized nuts for added texture. Be sure to mix the batter just until combined to ensure your brownies remain fudgy and moist.
Serving Suggestions
These brownies are delightful on their own, but you can elevate the experience by serving them warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or pairing them with a cup of coffee. For a festive touch, sprinkle with powdered sugar or serve alongside a slice of rich and moist coconut cake for a delightful dessert spread.
Storage & Reheating
To store leftovers, let the brownies cool completely, then wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or place them in an airtight container. They can be kept at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerated for up to a week. To reheat, simply microwave for about 10-15 seconds for a warm, gooey treat.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Grandma Bea'S Brownies contains roughly 201 calories, with 4g protein, 36g carbohydrates, and 5g fat. It is a good source of calcium (12% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1028mg per serving (45% 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 cocoa powder instead of unsweetened chocolate?
Yes, you can substitute cocoa powder for unsweetened chocolate. Use 3 tablespoons of cocoa powder mixed with 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil or melted butter for each square of chocolate. This will help maintain the fat content and ensure your brownies stay moist.
How do I achieve a crackly top on my brownies?
To achieve that desirable crackly top, make sure to beat the eggs and sugar together until light and fluffy before adding the other ingredients. Also, ensure that the batter is mixed thoroughly after adding the melted chocolate, which contributes to that shiny finish.
Can I add other flavors to the brownies?
Absolutely! You can enhance the flavor by adding a teaspoon of vanilla extract or even a splash of espresso for a deeper chocolate taste. If you want to get creative, consider mixing in some chocolate chips or swirling in caramel before baking for an extra indulgent treat.
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).