Grandma's Best Brownies

By polledl

Ingredients

• 14 Tbsp butter, divided
• 4 ounces unsweetened chocolate, chopped
• 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
• 2 1/4 tsp vanilla extract, divided
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup flour
• 1/4 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
• 2 1/4 cups confectioners' sugar
• 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 3 to 4 Tbsp milk

Preparation

Step 1

Preheat oven to 400° F. Grease an 8-inch square baking pan.
In large heavy saucepan over low heat, melt 8 tablespoons butter and the chocolate, stirring constantly. Remove from heat and stir in granulated sugar, 2 teaspoons vanilla, and eggs, one at a time. Blend in flour and walnuts.

Spread batter in prepared pan and bake until brownies just start to pull away from sides of pan, 18 to 20 minutes.

To prepare frosting:
In medium bowl with electric mixer, beat remaining butter and vanilla until creamy. At low speed, gradually add confectioners' sugar and cocoa, alternating with milk, beating well after each addition until frosting is smooth and fluffy. Frost brownies when removed from oven by gently spreading on. Cut into 16 squares.