Grandma’s Brownies Recipe

Rich, fudgy, and beautifully nostalgic, Grandma’s Brownies are one of those treats that instantly transport you back to family gatherings and after-school treats at her cozy kitchen table. With a deeply chocolatey base and a glossy, decadent frosting, these brownies don’t just satisfy a sweet tooth—they create moments and memories. The simple ingredients come together in a classic combination that never fails, while the gooey center and slightly crackled top promise pure comfort with every bite. If you’re searching for a truly foolproof, crowd-pleasing dessert, Grandma’s Brownies will become your new go-to classic.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of Grandma’s Brownies lies in its simple, pantry-friendly ingredients that each play a key role in the final flavor and texture. Grab these staples and get ready for a home-baked delight that’s pure chocolate bliss.

• Unsalted butter (6 tablespoons, for frosting and 24 tablespoons for brownies): Softened butter creates that classic fudgy crumb and gives the frosting its rich, creamy texture.
• Milk (6 tablespoons for frosting, 1 cup for brownies): Using at least 2% milk adds moisture for a tender crumb and helps melt the sugar into the perfect glossy topping.
• Granulated sugar (1 1/2 cups for frosting, 2 cups for brownies): Sugar sweetens, of course, but also aids in creating that iconic brownie top and a gooey center.
• Milk chocolate chips (1 cup, for frosting): These bring a silky, creamy melt to the frosting you’ll want to lick off the spoon.
• Salt (1/2 teaspoon for frosting, 1/2 teaspoon for brownies): Just a touch heightens all those rich chocolate flavors—don’t skip it!
• Large eggs (2, room temperature): Eggs bind the batter and add luscious richness you’ll taste in every bite.
• Pure vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): A splash of vanilla deepens the chocolatey goodness and rounds out the flavors.
• Unsweetened cocoa powder (3/4 cup): Cocoa is the heart and soul of Grandma’s Brownies, giving them their deep color and robust chocolate flavor.
• All-purpose flour (2 cups): The foundation that gives just the right chew and holds all the chocolate together.

How to Make Grandma’s Brownies

Step 1: Prep the Pan and Oven

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees. Take a 9×13-inch baking pan and spray it generously with non-stick spray—or, for easier removal, line it with parchment paper, making sure a bit of paper hangs over the edges. This little trick lets you lift out the entire batch in one swoop for easy slicing.

Step 2: Cream Together Butter, Sugar, Eggs, and Vanilla

Using a stand mixer (with a paddle attachment) or a handheld mixer if that’s what you have, cream the room temperature butter and sugar together until the mixture is pale and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each, then pour in the vanilla extract. Scrape down the sides to make sure everything’s velvety smooth—this step is the foundation for your perfect brownie crumb.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the cocoa powder, flour, and salt. This little side mix ensures the cocoa powder is evenly distributed, promising a uniform chocolate flavor with no bitter clumps.

Step 4: Combine the Wet and Dry Ingredients with Milk

Now, alternate adding the dry mixture and milk into the creamed butter mixture on low speed. Start with a portion of the dry ingredients, then some milk, and repeat: dry ingredients, milk, dry ingredients, milk, then finish with the rest of the dry. Gently mix just until everything is combined—the less you overmix, the fudgier your brownies.

Step 5: Pour and Bake

Spread the batter evenly in your prepared pan, smoothing out the top. Bake for about 30 minutes, until the edges are set but the center is still a little soft—don’t overbake! Once done, let the pan cool for 20-30 minutes, but don’t cool them all the way. Grandpa’s secret: slightly warm brownies soak up the frosting best!

Step 6: Whip Up the Dreamy Frosting

While the brownies cool a bit, make the frosting. In a saucepan, combine 6 tablespoons butter, 6 tablespoons milk, and 1 1/2 cups sugar. Bring everything to a boil over medium-high heat and let it bubble for exactly one minute—set a timer! Take it off the heat, whisk in 1/2 teaspoon of salt and the milk chocolate chips. Stir until silky smooth, then pour the frosting all over the (still warm) brownies and spread quickly—this layer begins to set fast. Let the whole pan cool for at least an hour for perfect squares.

How to Serve Grandma’s Brownies

Garnishes

Serve Grandma’s Brownies with a light dusting of powdered sugar for a snowy finish, a scattering of chocolate shavings, or a few fresh berries for a burst of color and tartness. A small scoop of vanilla ice cream or a swirl of whipped cream on the side takes the experience to new heights!

Side Dishes

Pair these brownies with ice-cold milk for the ultimate throwback snack, or offer them alongside fresh strawberries and raspberries for a refreshing contrast. For more grown-up gatherings, try serving your brownies with espresso or rich coffee for a match made in dessert heaven.

Creative Ways to Present

Stack the brownies in a rustic tower for a family-style centerpiece, or cut them into bite-sized pieces and arrange on a fancy platter for parties. You can even dress them up with a drizzle of caramel or a sprinkle of flaky sea salt to add a modern twist to Grandma’s timeless classic.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Grandma’s Brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. They stay fabulously fudgy, and the frosting stays nicely set—just be sure to keep them covered to prevent drying out.

Freezing

These brownies freeze beautifully! Once fully cooled and cut, wrap each piece individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep for up to three months—just let them thaw at room temperature before serving.

Reheating

If you like your brownies extra gooey, pop individual pieces in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds. This quick warm-up brings back that freshly-baked aroma, and the frosting gets wonderfully soft and melty.

FAQs

Can I use dark chocolate chips instead of milk chocolate for the frosting?

Absolutely! Dark chocolate chips will give the frosting a deeper, more bittersweet flavor. It’s a great way to tailor Grandma’s Brownies to your personal chocolate preferences.

Is it okay to use salted butter instead of unsalted?

Yes, you can use salted butter if that’s what you have on hand, but consider reducing or omitting the additional salt in the recipe to keep the flavors balanced.

Can I add nuts to Grandma’s Brownies?

Of course! Chopped walnuts or pecans make a wonderful addition for both texture and taste. Simply fold them into the batter just before pouring it into the pan.

What’s the secret to getting perfectly fudgy brownies?

The trick is to avoid overbaking—the brownies should be just set around the edges and slightly soft in the center when you pull them from the oven. Letting them cool before slicing also helps set that dreamy, fudgy texture.

Can I double this recipe for a big crowd?

Yes, you can double the recipe and bake it in two pans or one larger pan (just adjust the baking time as needed). Grandma’s Brownies are always a hit for parties and potlucks!

Final Thoughts

Baking a batch of Grandma’s Brownies is like sending a love letter from your oven. They’re impossibly rich, easy enough for a weeknight, and decadent enough for any celebration. Give this treasured recipe a try—you might just find yourself passing it down to loved ones, just like Grandma did.

Print