Grandpa'S Favorite Mockingbird Brownies
Grandpa's Favorite Mockingbird Brownies are rich, chocolate-flavored squares with a hint of peanut crunch, perfect for sharing at family gatherings or cozy afternoons.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine water, butter or margarine, and vegetable oil in a small saucepan and bring to a boil.
- Combine buttermilk and baking soda in a bowl, stirring until the soda dissolves.
- In a large bowl, mix together flour, sugar, and cocoa.
- Add the hot water mixture to the dry ingredients and stir well.
- Pour in the buttermilk mixture and beaten eggs, then mix thoroughly.
- Spoon the batter into a greased 15 x 10 x 1-inch jelly roll pan.
- Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 15 minutes.
- While still warm, frost with Buttermilk Frosting.
- Sprinkle with chopped peanuts or other nuts if desired, then cool and cut into squares.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using unsweetened chocolate instead of cocoa powder. You can substitute almond milk for buttermilk if needed; just add a splash of vinegar to mimic the acidity. If you want a crunch, try adding chopped walnuts instead of peanuts. Make sure to let the brownies cool completely before frosting to prevent the frosting from melting.
Serving Suggestions
These brownies are delicious on their own but can be served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert. They also pair beautifully with Fluffy Pudding Frosting for an extra layer of sweetness. For a fun twist, serve them alongside a cup of coffee or hot chocolate, making them perfect for a cozy gathering.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, keep them in the refrigerator for up to a week. To reheat, place a brownie in the microwave for 10-15 seconds, just enough to warm it slightly without drying it out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Grandpa'S Favorite Mockingbird Brownies contains roughly 166 calories, with 3g protein, 23g carbohydrates, and 7g fat.
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 oil in this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute canola oil or melted coconut oil for vegetable oil. Just ensure that the oil you choose has a neutral flavor to not affect the taste of the brownies.
How can I make these brownies gluten-free?
To make gluten-free brownies, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure the blend is suitable for baking to achieve the right texture.
What can I use if I don't have buttermilk?
If you don't have buttermilk, you can create a substitute by mixing 1/2 cup of milk with 1/2 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice. Let it sit for about 5 minutes before using it in the recipe.
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).