Dark Cocoa Brownies

by Anna Gall

Ingredients:

½ cup butter
½ cup dark cocoa
1 cup granulated sugar
2 eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2/3 cup flour
½ teaspoon baking powder
½ teaspoon salt
½ cup chopped walnuts, pecans, or chocolate chips (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F.  Lightly grease an 8 or 9-inch square baking pan.
2. Melt butter in a medium saucepan; remove from heat.
3. Add cocoa and stir well.
4. Add sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract; mix until shiny and smooth.
5. Add flour, baking powder, and salt; mix well.
6. Fold in nuts or chocolate chips.
7. Pour into prepared baking pan; spread evenly.  
8. Bake for 15 – 20 minutes at 350°F.  DO NOT OVER BAKE.  
9. Cut when cooled.

Makes 8 – 9 servings.