Rita'S Brownies
Rita's Brownies offer rich, fudgy chocolate flavor with a moist, dense texture, perfect for satisfying sweet cravings. Their classic taste and simple ingredients make them a favorite for dessert lovers of all ages, ideal for casual gatherings or a comforting treat at home.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Beat the eggs and sugar in a bowl.
- Melt the shortening and unsweetened chocolate in a pan.
- In another large bowl, combine flour, baking powder, salt, and vanilla.
- Heat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease and flour a small square pan.
- Mix all ingredients together and beat for 2 minutes.
- Bake for 15 to 20 minutes.
- Allow the brownies to cool.
- Put on icing if desired.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider substituting half of the unsweetened chocolate with dark chocolate. If you don't have shortening, you can use butter or a vegetable oil blend. Make sure to mix the batter well for a fudgy texture, and don't overbake; check for doneness at 15 minutes. For a fun twist, add nuts or chocolate chips to the batter. This recipe is perfect for those who enjoy American recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these brownies warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert. They pair wonderfully with a drizzle of chocolate sauce or a dollop of whipped cream. For a delightful flavor contrast, consider serving with Fruited Cheese Salad on the side. These brownies also make a great treat for gatherings or as a sweet addition to lunch boxes.
Storage & Reheating
Allow the brownies to cool completely before storing. Place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week. For longer storage, wrap individual brownies in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, microwave for 10-15 seconds until warm, or enjoy them cold.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Rita'S Brownies contains roughly 335 calories, with 3g protein, 25g carbohydrates, and 25g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (12% of the Daily Value) and calcium (11% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1115mg per serving (48% 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 cocoa powder instead of unsweetened chocolate?
Yes, you can substitute 3 tablespoons of cocoa powder and 1 tablespoon of oil for 2 squares of unsweetened chocolate. This will maintain the chocolate flavor while slightly altering the texture, keeping the brownies delicious.
How do I know when the brownies are done baking?
Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center of the brownies. If it comes out with a few moist crumbs, they are done. If it comes out wet with batter, they need more time. Typically, they will be done within 15-20 minutes.
Can I add nuts or chocolate chips to the recipe?
Absolutely! Adding nuts like walnuts or chocolate chips enhances the flavor and texture of the brownies. Fold in about 1/2 cup of your favorite mix-ins when combining the ingredients for a delicious twist on the classic 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).