Libby'S Brownies
Rich, fudgy brownies with deep chocolate flavor, enhanced by walnuts and a hint of coffee, perfect for satisfying sweet cravings or sharing at gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix the unsweetened chocolate, shortening, and sugar until well combined.
- Add eggs and continue mixing until smooth.
- Stir in the sifted flour, baking powder, salt, and black walnuts.
- Combine the confectioners sugar, vanilla, cocoa, and soft butter to make a frosting or glaze.
- Add about 1 teaspoon of instant coffee or brewed coffee to the chocolate mixture until it reaches a spreadable consistency.
- If using instant coffee, add hot water to dissolve the granules before mixing.
- Pour the batter into a greased baking pan and spread evenly.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for approximately 20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Allow to cool before cutting into squares and serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For the best results, ensure that the chocolate and shortening are melted together smoothly before adding sugar and eggs. If you don't have black walnuts, regular walnuts or pecans can work as a substitute. For a richer brownie, consider adding chocolate chips to the batter or using dark cocoa powder instead of regular cocoa. If you prefer a less sweet glaze, adjust the confectioners sugar to taste.
Serving Suggestions
These brownies are delicious on their own, but you can elevate the experience by serving them warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. They also pair beautifully with a cup of coffee or tea. For a fun twist, try them alongside T.J.'S Finger Cookies for a delightful dessert platter.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, place them in the refrigerator for up to a week. To reheat, simply microwave a square for about 10-15 seconds until warm, or enjoy them chilled for a fudgy treat.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Libby'S Brownies contains roughly 746 calories, with 3g protein, 119g carbohydrates, and 20g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1574mg per serving (68% 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 other types of chocolate instead of unsweetened chocolate?
Yes, you can use bittersweet or semisweet chocolate as a substitute for unsweetened chocolate. Just remember to reduce the sugar in the recipe slightly, as these chocolates are sweeter.
What if I don't have shortening?
If you don't have shortening, you can substitute an equal amount of unsalted butter. Keep in mind that this may slightly alter the texture, making the brownies a bit richer and softer.
Can I make these brownies gluten-free?
Absolutely! To make gluten-free brownies, simply replace the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Ensure that your baking powder is gluten-free as well for the best results.
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).