The Pioneer Woman Cooks (72 page)

5. With the mixer on low speed, drizzle in the melted chocolate. Add the vanilla extract and mix.

6. Add the flour to the bowl and mix just until combined; do not overmix.

7. Pour the batter in the baking pan.

8. Spread it to even out the surface. Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the center is no longer soft.

9. Set the brownies aside to cool completely before icing.

10. To make the icing, in a large mixing bowl, combine the butter, powdered sugar, cocoa powder, salt, and vanilla.

11. Mix until slightly combined, then add ½ cup of the coffee.

12. Whip until the icing is the desired consistency. If the icing is overly thick, add ¼ cup more coffee.

13. It should be very light and fluffy.

14. Ice the cooled brownies, spreading the icing on thick. Refrigerate until the icing is firm, then slice the brownies into squares.

Variation

Serve in a bowl topped with coffee ice cream and drizzle with hot fudge sauce. Sinful!

SPEAKING OF SWEET…

Marlboro Man believes in involving the kids in the work of the ranch as early as possible. As soon as our babies are weaned, he takes them with him.

Sometimes they’re a little fearful, but he talks them through it.

Because he knows that the earlier they start, the earlier they’ll become proficient.

…And the earlier he’ll be able to retire. Ranchers are always planning ahead.

OATMEAL CRISPIES

Makes 24 cookies

These are Marlboro Man’s favorite cookies. They’re simple, wholesome, and perfectly delicious!

½ cup pecan halves1 cup shortening1 cup packed dark or light brown sugar1 cup granulated sugar2 large eggs1 teaspoon vanilla extract1½ cups all-purpose flour1 teaspoon salt1 teaspoon baking soda3 cups rolled oats