Martin’s Brownies
Funny story: I knew my brother-in-law for years before I ever knew my husband. William’s older brother, Martin, was my boss for two summers while I served as an Orientation Leader at Ole Miss. We got to be close during those two years, and I used to share way too much personal information with him, like my terrible date stories and how “HAHA I should just date your brother! What if we were related?? Wouldn’t that be hilarious??” I have never doubted that God has a sense of humor. Our relationship has evolved over the years, from boss, to friend, to family. The evolution is definitely unique, and I don’t think many people can say that they spoke into existence that they would marry their boss’ brother— part of what makes our relationship so funny and special.
When it comes to food, Martin is a “selective eater.” He knows what he does and doesn’t like, and simply chooses to eat only what he does. Hey, life’s too short to do otherwise! His favorite dessert is a simple, iced brownie. These have earned the seal of approval from not only him, but my precious nephew, too! These are perfect with vanilla ice cream (my personal favorite is the tried and true Bluebell Homemade Vanilla) but are also delicious without. Happy baking!
1 cup butter, melted
½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
2 cups all purpose flour
2 cups granulated sugar
4 large eggs
4 teaspoons vanilla extract
Frosting:
¼ cup butter, softened
½ cup milk (2%)
¼ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
3 cups powdered sugar
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Line a 9x13 inch baking dish with parchment paper. Set aside.
2. In the bowl of an electric stand-mixer, add the melted butter and cocoa powder. Using the paddle attachment, blend until smooth.
3. Add the flour and sugar. Beat together then add eggs and vanilla. Mix until just combined. (batter will be thick)
4. Pour batter into prepared baking dish and spread out evenly. Bake 25 to 30 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean. Remove brownies from oven and let stand 15 minutes before frosting. You want the brownies to still be warm when you frost them!
5. For chocolate frosting: Beat together all the frosting ingredients until smooth. If too thick, add more milk by the tablespoon until frosting consistency. Pour and spread over warm brownies. Let cool completely before cutting and serving.
