When my husband moved into a job a few years back where, upon arrival, morale was so low it was in the…well, you get my drift. No one trusted those in charge, and the view of anyone sitting in his seat was not a warm and fuzzy one. I was working and traveling a lot in those days, and since I couldn’t do much to help, I figured that food was always a good ice breaker. But because you usually see goodies in an office on a Friday to celebrate the coming weekend, I thought I would flip that idea on its ear. After all, it’s not on a glorious, “it’s 5 o’clock somewhere” Friday that folks need a pick-me-up. It’s on those gloomy, throw the covers over your head, don’t-make-me-go-back Mondays that people need a little extra help with their morning caffeine fix. And what goes with morning caffeine better than baked goods, right?
So I decided to institute what came to be known as “Baked Good Mondays”. Small problem though. See, I’m not really a baker. I don’t follow rules that well (just ask anyone who’s ever spent 10 minutes with me). When I am held to exact measurements, precise baking times, and specific ingredients, I feel like any inspiration I may have in my back pocket is left untapped. And who can argue with the fact that sometimes, nothing beats a fudgy, gooey, chocolatey brownie? So what’s a girl to do when baked goods are required? Improvise anyway!
As I mentioned above, because I don’t like having to be so darned precise when baking, I find other ways to tinker with recipes (I’m a rebel!). In this case, I use a store brand, boxed fudge brownie mix as my base. And then, I start experimenting. Let’s just say that this version has become so popular, that every place I’ve taken it, the pan comes back empty in no time flat, and usually already cleaned, with a request for more. I figure if those who are partaking like it enough to actually do the dishes, I must be doing something right.
Take a chance and experiment with these at your next office function or potluck. I dare you not to be worshiped and praised for your generous nature and wicked mad baking game!
With these babies in tow at your early morning meeting, Mondays won’t seem so bad anymore.
Gooey Chocolate Brownies
Print Recipe
Simple as can be, but oh-so-darned-good, you'll want to toss that diet out the window and dive in for a second square--if your co-workers or party-goers haven't cleaned them out already!
Simple as can be, but oh-so-darned-good, you'll want to toss that diet out the window and dive in for a second square--if your co-workers or party-goers haven't cleaned them out already!
Heat the oven to 350 degrees for a metal pan, or 325 for a dark coated or glass pan. Spray pan with cooking spray.
Combine brownie mix, oil, eggs, and water in a medium mixing bowl. Take care to mix thoroughly to smooth out any pockets of dry mix, but not to over work the batter (that can make for tough brownies).
Add 3/4 cup of chocolate chips and 1 tbsp. instant coffee. Mix to incorporate into batter.
Pour batter into sprayed baking dish. Bake for 28-30 minutes, depending on directions given on brownie mix.
Sprinkle remaining 1/4 cup of chocolate chips over the top of the batter.
Cool completely before cutting into 12 squares. Tip: if you use a slightly wet knife, it should ensure that the brownies don't stick to the knife.
Recipe Notes
Note that the baking times may vary depending on 1) the instructions on whichever brand of brownie mix you have, and 2) the size and type of pan you use. Make sure to follow those carefully to avoid drying out these chocolatey lovelies!
Greetings! I'm Dee Dee. Nonprofit escapee, military spouse, home cook, and purveyor of tasty goodness. My Midlife Kitchen is where I cook, blog, and give my not-so-humble opinions on topics big and small. Join me for a peek inside My Midlife Kitchen!
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