Melissa'S Blue Ribbon Brownies(State Fair Blue Ribbon Winning Recipe)
Melissa's Blue Ribbon Brownies are rich, fudgy treats with a deep chocolate flavor, complemented by a hint of vanilla and optional nuts for added texture. Perfect for parties, bake sales, or a comforting dessert at home, these brownies are a classic crowd-pleaser with a moist, chewy center and a crisp top.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a small saucepan, slowly melt the margarine and chocolate together.
- In a mixing bowl, beat the eggs until foamy.
- Add salt to the eggs and mix well.
- Gradually add sugar and vanilla to the egg mixture, beating continuously.
- Combine the melted chocolate mixture with the sugar mixture, then fold in the flour and chopped nuts if desired.
- Pour the batter into a greased 9 x 13-inch pan.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25 minutes.
- Allow to cool, then cut into squares.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra decadence, consider using dark chocolate instead of regular chocolate for a richer flavor. If you're looking for a lighter alternative, unsweetened applesauce can replace half of the margarine. Ensure your eggs are at room temperature for better incorporation into the batter. Be careful not to overmix once you add the flour, as this can make the brownies tough.
Serving Suggestions
These brownies are delicious on their own, but you can elevate the experience by serving them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce. They pair beautifully with Pumpkin Pie(Custard Type) for a sweet dessert table. For a festive touch, sprinkle powdered sugar on top before serving, or add fresh berries for a pop of color.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can refrigerate them for up to a week. If you prefer, wrap individual brownies in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply microwave for about 10 seconds to enjoy them warm.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Melissa'S Blue Ribbon Brownies(State Fair Blue Ribbon Winning Recipe) contains roughly 37 calories, with 0g protein, 4g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 497mg per serving (22% 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 margarine?
Yes, you can substitute margarine with unsalted butter or coconut oil for a different flavor profile. Butter will provide a richer taste, while coconut oil is a great dairy-free option. Just keep in mind that this may slightly alter the texture of the brownies.
What if I don't have nuts on hand?
If you don't have nuts, you can simply omit them from the recipe without compromising the overall taste. Alternatively, you could replace them with chocolate chips or dried fruit for added texture and flavor. This makes the brownies suitable for those with nut allergies.
How can I tell when the brownies are done baking?
To check for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center of the brownies. If it comes out with a few moist crumbs, they are ready to be taken out of the oven. If it comes out wet with batter, they need a few more minutes. Remember that they will continue to cook slightly 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).