Lunch Lady Brownies: The Ultimate Fudgy Treat

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Who says lunch ladies only know how to whip up mystery meat and soggy tater tots? Tonight, we’re elevating the humble school cafeteria treat to new heights. Introducing the Midnight Snack Surprise, a decadent dessert that pays homage to the classic lunch lady brownie, but with a global twist.

Ingredients:

For the Brownies:

  • 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
  • 2 cups granulated sugar
  • 4 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • For the Matcha Glaze:
  • 1/4 cup heavy cream
  • 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
  • 1/4 cup matcha powder
  • 1/4 cup powdered sugar
  • For the Thai Chili Caramel:
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/4 cup water
  • 1/4 cup heavy cream
  • 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
  • 1/2 teaspoon Thai chili paste

  • Preparation Process:

    Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes

    1. Prep the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking pan.
    2. Cream the Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
    3. Add the Wet Ingredients: Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.
    4. Combine the Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
    5. Bake the Brownies: Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
    6. Cool and Cut: Let the brownies cool completely in the pan before cutting into squares.
    7. Make the Matcha Glaze: In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream and butter over medium heat until the butter melts. Remove from heat and whisk in the matcha powder and powdered sugar until smooth.
    8. Make the Thai Chili Caramel: In a small saucepan, combine the sugar and water over medium heat. Cook, without stirring, until the sugar dissolves and turns a deep amber color. Carefully add the heavy cream, butter, and Thai chili paste. Stir until smooth and set aside to cool slightly.
    9. Assemble the Dessert: Drizzle the matcha glaze over the cooled brownies. Top with dollops of Thai chili caramel.

    Serving Ideas:

    Elevate the Experience: Serve the Midnight Snack Surprise on a beautiful plate with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of flaky sea salt.

  • Pair with Perfection: Pair with a cup of strong, dark coffee or a glass of rich, red wine.
  • Embrace the Unexpected: Serve as a unique dessert at a dinner party or potluck.

  • This fusion dessert is a testament to the power of culinary creativity. It blends the comforting familiarity of the classic lunch lady brownie with the bold flavors of the East. The result is a truly unforgettable treat that tantalizes the taste buds and sparks the imagination.