Picnic Brownies
Sweet and chewy brownies packed with raisins and walnuts, offering a delightful combination of chocolate, nuts, and fruit. Perfect for picnics, parties, or anytime craving hits.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix flour, baking powder, baking soda, and melted margarine in a bowl.
- Add sugar, eggs, and vanilla; mix until well blended.
- Stir in raisins, chopped walnuts, and chocolate chips.
- Grease a 13 x 9-inch pan.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20 to 25 minutes.
- Cool, then cut into squares and serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider replacing half of the chocolate chips with chunks of Claudine'S Brownies or using a mix of dark and milk chocolate chips. If you're short on walnuts, pecans or almonds also work well. To keep the brownies moist, avoid overbaking them; they should be just set in the center before cooling.
Serving Suggestions
These picnic brownies are perfect for outdoor gatherings or potlucks. Serve them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent treat or pair with Creamy Orange And Pineapple Salad for a refreshing contrast. They also make a delightful addition to a dessert platter alongside seasonal fruit or other sweet treats.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to a week, or freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply warm individual squares in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds until just warmed through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Picnic Brownies contains roughly 423 calories, with 8g protein, 73g carbohydrates, and 14g fat. It is a good source of protein (15% of the Daily Value), calcium (15% of the Daily Value), and iron (14% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 3g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 substitute the margarine with butter?
Yes, you can easily substitute margarine with an equal amount of unsalted butter for a richer taste. Just melt the butter before adding it to the mixture. This will enhance the flavor of the brownies and give them a slightly different texture.
What can I use instead of raisins?
If you don't have raisins on hand, dried cranberries or cherries make a great alternative, adding a tart flavor that complements the sweetness of the brownies. You can also use chopped dates for a chewy texture and natural sweetness.
How do I know when the brownies are done baking?
To check if the brownies are done, insert a toothpick into the center. If it comes out with a few moist crumbs, they are ready. If it’s wet with batter, give them a few more minutes. Remember, they will continue to firm up 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).