Lunch Lady Brownies are soft, chocolatey, and packed with old-school charm. Inspired by the classic dessert once served in school cafeterias, this homemade version brings back that nostalgic flavor—only better. With their moist, cake-like texture and deep chocolate richness, these brownies are a comforting treat that never goes out of style.
Believed to be based on a time-tested recipe from the kind-hearted lunch ladies of elementary school days, these brownies have found new life in home kitchens. They’re simple to make, incredibly satisfying, and perfect for everything from potlucks to weekday desserts. If you’re craving a chocolate treat that hits all the right notes, Lunch Lady Brownies are a timeless favorite worth baking again and again.
Lunch Lady Brownies

Lunch Lady Brownies are soft, chocolatey, and packed with old-school charm. Inspired by the classic dessert once served in school cafeterias, this homemade version brings back that nostalgic flavor—only better. With their moist, cake-like texture and deep chocolate richness, these brownies are a comforting treat that never goes out of style.
Ingredients
Brownies:
- 1 cup salted butter melted
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 4 teaspoons vanilla extract
Chocolate Frosting:
- 1/4 cup salted butter softened
- 1/4 cup 2% milk
- 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 3 cups powdered sugar
Instructions
Brownies
Preheat oven to 350° F. Line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper and spray paper with non-stick spray. Set aside.
- In the bowl of an electric stand-mixer, add the melted butter and cocoa powder. Using the paddle attachment, blend until smooth.
- Add the flour and sugar. Beat together then add eggs and vanilla. Mix just until combined. Don’t over mix. (Batter will be thick)
- Pour batter into prepared baking dish and spread out evenly. Bake 25 to 30 minutes or until toothpick inserted in center comes out clean. Remove brownies from oven and let stand 15 minutes before frosting. You want the brownies still warm when you frost them!
Chocolate Frosting
- Beat together all the frosting ingredients until smooth. Pour and spread over warm brownies. Let brownies cool completely before cutting and serving.
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