The Budget Chef
KW Publishing
PO Box 4755
West Richland, Wa. 99353
kw.publishing@gmail.com
Boring Brownies to Dazzling Dessert
By Dawn Billesbach
The one dessert I always have on hand is a box of brownies mix. Since they never go bad, they make the perfect emergency dessert. My favorite thing about them is that they are so versatile and you can dress them up many different ways.
A little something sprinkled on top is an instant embellishment. Three very simple topping ideas are powdered sugar, mini M&M's, or caramel ice cream topping. Any of these toppings make very cool and tasty decorations.
Another favorite candy topping of mine is mini peanut butter cups. These are great when the brownies are baked as mini muffins. After the brownies are baked, press the candy gently into the brownie until the top of the peanut butter cup is flush with the top of the brownie. It's a mini brownie bite with a surprise filling.
An easy brownie icing is Ganache. To make Ganache icing, simply melt ½ cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips and mix in ¼ cup of heavy whipping cream. This makes for rich and decadent brownies.
If you really want to get fancy, Tuxedo Brownies are always a hit at my house. For this, you need to mix with an electric mixer: 1 (8 oz) box of cream cheese, 1 egg, and 1/3 cup of sugar. Place dollops of this mixture over the top of the uncooked brownie mixture and run a knife around the top to create a swirl affect. Bake according to box.
My last variation is my kid's first choice and that is a la mode. They have known the meaning of a la mode since they were two. They love ice cream on top of everything and brownies are no exception. You can really go the distance and do an entire Brownie Sundae.
Impress your guests or score "brownie" points with your family with these super simple modifications. A fabulous dessert is just a box away.
Dawn Billesbach
Creator and Founder of http://www.Menufortheweek.com
Does the daily struggle of "What's for dinner?" make you want to hide your head like an ostrich? Visit my website for one FREE week's menu and grocery list. Treat yourself and leave the stress to me.
