Deluxe Brownies

Rich, dark chocolate brownies with a kiss of coffee and hint of almond flavoring.

Recipe Ingredients:

1 cup firmly packed brown sugar
8 ounces unsweetened chocolate
1 cup butter
5 large eggs
3 3/4 cups granulated sugar
1 tablespoon instant coffee granules
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon almond extract
3/4 teaspoon salt
1 2/3 cups all purpose flour, sifted
2 cups walnut halves, lightly toasted and chopped coarsely

Cooking Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a 13x9x2-inch pan with foil and generously grease.
2. Melt chocolate and butter together over a double boiler or using a microwave, stirring occasionally. Set aside to cool to room temperature.
3. Using an electric mixer, beat eggs with sugar, instant coffee, vanilla, almond extract and salt at high speed for 10 minutes.
4. On low speed add the chocolate mixture, beating only until mixed. Add the flour, beating until mixed. Stir in the chopped nuts. Turn batter into the prepared baking pan.
5. Bake for 15 minutes then cover with a sheet of aluminum foil to prevent over browning. Rotate pan then continue baking 20 more minutes. (Bake exactly 35 minutes total...no more no less.) When done, the brownies will have a thick, crisp crust on top but when a wooden pick is inserted into the middle it will come out wet.
6. Let cool at room temperature then cover and refrigerate a few hours before cutting. Wrap brownies individually and store in an airtight container.

Makes 24 brownies.