From an early age, it was instilled in me that you simply do not cook or bake anything that comes out of a box.  Homemade, made from scratch is best because it’s cheaper and and better for you.  Making anything using “convenience” was just not in our budget.   But the one exception to this growing up was brownies. We usually had a box of brownie mix in our pantry.

I’ve always loved reading and collecting recipes. When my mom’s Southern Living magazine would arrive, I usually read it before her and would always just jump to the recipes in the back. As time went on, I started collecting recipes and have added cookbooks to my obsession. I wouldn’t say I’m a hoarder, but I do battle with having way too many of both. Thank goodness for Pinterest because my “pile” is now endless! Many years ago I came across a brownie recipe, all from scratch. And it looked too good to be true; no melting chocolate and everything basically got dumped in a bowl, mixed and baked. I just had to try it, so I did. And it was so yummy!

So I ditched the boxed brownie mixes and made this my go to recipe. The kids grew to know it as how you made brownies; not from a box! Success! When they needed a treat for school, they requested the brownies. When my hubby or I wanted to take a treat to work, I’d make the brownies. These brownies became our quick and easy go to for so many events. When my kids wanted a treat for scouts, sports, teacher gifts or for friend’s birthday parties, it was the brownies. Once they were old enough to make them on their own, the brownies became regular birthday gifts for their friends. Then the word spread; “Mom, Becca wants you to make brownies.” Mom, I’m going over to Monica’s. Can you make brownies?” “Mom, I need a teacher gift.  I forgot.  Can you make the brownies?”  Well, you get the idea.

So it was one of those occasions, I think when either my hubby or I had planned on taking the brownies in to a work function….I come down stairs to pack them up and this is what I found:

What the heck?!  I knew instantly who had done this; the usual culprit….#2, our spicy red headed loveliness.  Could she had at least cut out a corner?  Really?!  Who does she think she is, just hacking out the middle and leaving me to salvage what’s left?  My mind was spinning; first there needs to be consequences and I also have to figure out how to make these presentable to the office staff.  When I called her out on the “what were you thinking” situation, she denied having anything to do with assaulting my precious brownies.  This time there was something different in her demeanor, something about what she was saying that my gut told me she was innocent.  Then in walks our #3.  Our quiet one…yep, watch those quiet ones!  I soon discovered that she was the guilty party.  And through this experience, I learned something new.  #3 has never liked the edge pieces.  She only likes the middle pieces.  But what I more importantly learned, is that just because they are quiet and are sweet, doesn’t mean that they don’t have a little bit of that spice that runs in our family.  Another important lesson I learned; just because #2 is our most spicy one; that doesn’t mean she’s always guilty.  She’s just as wonderful and sweet as the others.

So here you go; the brownie recipe!  Again, I have no clue where I found it.  We’ve made this so many times, that we practically have it memorized.  Please let me know if you enjoy them as much as we do.

Help Us Be Nice, Amen!

Brownies

1 1/3 cups flour
2 cups sugar
3/4 cup cocoa powder
1 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp salt
2/3 cup vegetable oil
4 eggs, slightly beaten
2 tsp vanilla extract

In mixing bowl add first 5 ingredients. Whisk to mix well. Add oil, eggs and vanilla extract. Mix by hand until all ingredients are combined. Do not over mix. Spread in a 13″ x 9″ pan lined with foil and sprayed with cooking spray. Bake in 350 degree oven for 20 – 25 minutes until a toothpick inserted in center comes out clean. Cool and cut into squares. I usually sprinkle them with XXX sugar just before serving. You can also frost them if you prefer. Adding nuts are also optional. Nut can be added before baking. Makes 1 dozen brownies.