Grandma's Brownies Fudge Bars (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ Brownie Base

01 - 24 tablespoons unsalted butter, at room temperature
02 - 2 cups granulated sugar
03 - 2 large eggs, at room temperature
04 - 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
05 - 1 cup milk (2% or whole preferred)
06 - 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
07 - 2 cups all-purpose flour
08 - 1/2 teaspoon salt

→ Fudge Frosting

09 - 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, at room temperature
10 - 6 tablespoons milk (at least 2% milk fat)
11 - 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
12 - 1 cup milk chocolate chips
13 - 1/2 teaspoon salt

# Instructions:

01 - Preheat oven to 350°F and coat a 9×13 inch baking pan with non-stick spray or line with parchment paper extending the sides for easy removal.
02 - In a stand mixer with paddle attachment or using a hand mixer, cream together unsalted butter and granulated sugar until smooth and fluffy.
03 - Add eggs and vanilla extract to the creamed mixture. Continue mixing and scrape down bowl sides as needed until fully combined.
04 - In a separate bowl, whisk together cocoa powder, all-purpose flour, and salt.
05 - On low speed, alternate adding the dry mixture and milk to the wet ingredients: start with dry ingredients, then add half the milk, more dry ingredients, the remaining milk, and finish with the rest of the dry mixture. Mix until just incorporated.
06 - Pour batter into prepared pan, spread evenly, and bake in the center of the oven for 30 minutes. Allow to cool for 20–30 minutes; brownies should remain slightly warm for frosting.
07 - In a saucepan over medium-high heat, combine butter, milk, and granulated sugar. Bring to a boil and continue boiling for 1 minute. Remove from heat, add salt and milk chocolate chips, and whisk vigorously until smooth.
08 - Immediately pour hot frosting over the warm brownies, spreading quickly with an offset spatula before it begins to set. Allow to rest for at least 1 hour before slicing.

# Notes:

01 - For thinner brownies, use an 11×17 inch pan and reduce baking time to 25–30 minutes. Brownies are dense, so trim portions small for serving.
02 - Store in an airtight container at room temperature for 3–4 days, in the refrigerator for up to 1 week, or freeze for up to 3 months for prolonged storage.