Grandma Esther'S Brownies
Rich, fudgy brownies with a hint of cocoa and crunchy nuts, perfect for satisfying sweet cravings and sharing with family and friends.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine all ingredients: eggs, sugar, shortening, cocoa, salt, flour, baking powder, vanilla, nuts, and hot water.
- Mix until well blended.
- Pour into a greased baking pan.
- Bake for 30 minutes at 350°F.
- Sprinkle with powdered sugar before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider substituting half of the shortening with unsweetened applesauce or melted coconut oil. If you're looking for a nut-free version, simply omit the nuts or replace them with dairy-free chocolate chips. Ensure your eggs are at room temperature for better mixing. For a fudgier texture, reduce the baking time by a few minutes.
Serving Suggestions
These brownies are delightful on their own but can be enhanced with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce. They pair beautifully with a cup of coffee or a glass of milk. For an extra touch, serve alongside a light salad like Lazy Woman Salad to balance the sweetness.
Storage & Reheating
To store leftovers, allow the brownies to cool completely, then cut them into squares and 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. For best results, reheat individual squares in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Grandma Esther'S Brownies contains roughly 540 calories, with 11g protein, 49g carbohydrates, and 26g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (81% of the Daily Value), iron (53% of the Daily Value), and potassium (36% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2243mg per serving (98% 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 use butter or margarine as a substitute for shortening. Just keep in mind that using butter will give the brownies a richer flavor, while margarine may alter the texture slightly.
What can I do if my brownies turn out too dry?
If your brownies are dry, it may be due to overbaking. To prevent this next time, check for doneness a few minutes before the recommended time is up. You can also add a bit more hot water or a splash of coffee to the batter for moisture.
Can I freeze these brownies for later?
Absolutely! To freeze, wrap the brownies tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. To enjoy, simply thaw them in the refrigerator overnight or at room temperature for a few hours.
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).