Texas Brownies
Texas Brownies are rich, fudgy treats with a deep cocoa flavor, complemented by a moist, dense texture. Perfect for chocolate lovers and ideal for casual gatherings or comforting desserts, they combine the boldness of coffee and cocoa for a uniquely satisfying experience.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine the flour and sugar.
- In a heavy saucepan, combine margarine, shortening, coffee or water, and cocoa.
- Stir and heat to boiling.
- Pour the boiling mixture over the flour and sugar in the bowl.
- Add buttermilk, eggs, soda, and vanilla; mix well.
- Pour into a well buttered 17 1/2 x 11-inch pan.
- Bake at 400°F for 20 minutes or until done.
- While brownies bake, prepare frosting.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using dark cocoa instead of regular cocoa powder. If you don't have buttermilk, you can substitute it with regular milk mixed with a tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice. When mixing, be careful not to overmix; this keeps the brownies tender and moist. For a fun twist, add chocolate chips or nuts for extra texture.
Serving Suggestions
These Texas Brownies are delicious on their own, but you can enhance them by serving with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. They also pair beautifully with a cup of coffee or a glass of milk. For a festive touch, drizzle with chocolate frosting or serve alongside Blueberry Tarts for a delightful dessert spread.
Storage & Reheating
Allow the brownies to cool completely before storing. Place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze them wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil for up to 3 months. Reheat individual pieces in the microwave for a few seconds for a warm treat.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Texas Brownies contains roughly 323 calories, with 4g protein, 27g carbohydrates, and 20g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (16% 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 oil instead of margarine and shortening?
Yes, you can substitute the margarine and shortening with vegetable oil. Use about 3/4 cup of oil to replace the combined amount of margarine and shortening. Keep in mind that this might slightly alter the texture, making the brownies a bit denser.
What should I do if I don't have a 17 1/2 x 11-inch pan?
If you don't have the specified pan size, you can use a 9x13-inch pan instead. Just keep in mind that the baking time may vary slightly; check for doneness a few minutes earlier, as the brownies may bake faster in a smaller pan.
How can I tell when the brownies are done baking?
To check if the brownies are done, insert a toothpick into the center of the pan. If it comes out with a few moist crumbs, they are perfect. If the toothpick comes out clean, they may be overbaked. Remember, 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).