Basic Brownie Mix

Total Time

Prep/Total Time: 5 min.

Makes

9 servings

Updated: Sep. 25, 2022
For variety, add extra goodies to this basic brownie recipe. It's a quick answer to dessert for a busy family or when unexpected company stops by. —Kathryn Roach, Edgemont, Arkansas

Ingredients

  • 5 cups sugar
  • 3 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 can (8 ounces) baking cocoa
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ADDITIONAL INGREDIENTS (for each batch of brownies):
  • 1/2 cup butter, melted
  • 2 eggs, lightly beaten
  • 1 tablespoon water
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • FOR CARAMEL-NUT BROWNIES:
  • 1/4 cup caramel ice cream topping
  • 3/4 cup chopped pecans, toasted, divided
  • FOR CHERRY BROWNIES:
  • 1/2 cup dried cherries or cranberries
  • 1/2 cup water
  • Frosting of your choice, optional

Directions

  1. In a large bowl, combine the sugar, flour, cocoa and salt. Store in an airtight container in a cool, dry place for up to 6 months. Yield: 5 batches (about 10 cups total).
  2. To prepare basic brownies: Preheat oven to 350°. In a large bowl, combine 2 cups brownie mix, butter, eggs, water and vanilla. Pour into a greased 8-in. square baking dish. Bake 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Cool on a wire rack. Yield: 9 servings.
  3. To prepare caramel-nut brownies: Prepare basic brownie batter. Pour half into a greased 8-in. square baking dish. Drizzle with caramel topping and sprinkle with 1/2 cup pecans. Top with remaining batter and pecans. Bake and cool as directed. Yield: 9 servings.
  4. To prepare cherry brownies: In a small saucepan, bring the cherries and water to a boil. Remove from heat; let stand 5 minutes. Drain and pat dry. Prepare basic brownie batter; stir in cherries. Pour mixture into a greased 8-in. square baking dish. Bake and cool as directed. Frost if desired.

Nutrition Facts

1 each: 238 calories, 12g fat (7g saturated fat), 74mg cholesterol, 170mg sodium, 32g carbohydrate (22g sugars, 1g fiber), 3g protein.