Preheat oven: Set oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan or line with parchment paper.
Make the brownie batter: In a large bowl, combine melted butter and cocoa powder; mix until smooth. Add sugar, eggs, and vanilla, and beat until well combined. Stir in flour (and nuts, if using) just until blended — don’t overmix.
Bake: Pour batter into the prepared pan and bake for 25 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out with just a few moist crumbs. Do not overbake — that’s the secret to keeping them fudgy!
Prepare frosting (while brownies bake): In a medium bowl, beat together butter, milk, cocoa powder, powdered sugar, and vanilla until smooth and creamy. If too thick, add a splash more milk.
Frost while warm: Spread the frosting over the brownies while they’re still slightly warm — it’ll melt a bit and create that classic glossy glaze.
Cool, cut & enjoy: Let them cool completely before slicing into squares.
💖 Ashley’s Notes:
These brownies taste even better the next day!
For a cafeteria-style look, cut into neat squares and dust lightly with powdered sugar.
They’re perfect for bake sales, potlucks, or when you just want a cozy bite of childhood nostalgia.
