(START WITH A BOX) FUDGY OAT BROWNIES

Yes, box mixes can produce some delicious semi-homemade-style brownies and this recipe is a perfect example.

1 pkg (family-size) fudge brownie mix
1 1/2 cups quick-cooking oats
3/4 cup all-purpose flour
3/4 cup packed brown sugar
1/4 tsp baking soda
1/4 tsp salt
3/4 cup butter, melted

Preheat oven to 350 degrees.

In a mixing bowl combine the flour, oats, brown sugar, baking soda, and salt; stir in the butter until combined and all the mixture is wet.  Press mixture onto the bottom of an ungreased 13 x 9 x 2-inch baking pan.

Bake crust at 350 degrees for approximately 10 minutes or until the crust is puffy and the edges are lightly browned.

While the crust bakes, prepare the packaged brownie mix according to the package directions for cake-type brownies.  Pour the mixture over the crust and bake another 25 to 30 minutes until a wooden toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. (Never overbake brownies.)  Frost with the recipe below.

Brownie Frosting:
3 tbsp butter
1 1/2 squares (1-oz each) baking chocolate, chopped
2 1/4 cups powdered sugar
3 to 4 tbsp hot water
1 1/2 tsp vanilla extract

Melt the butter and chocolate together in a small saucepan over low heat, stirring until smooth.  Remove from heat and stir in the powdered sugar, hot water and the vanilla.  Stir until smooth.
NOTE: Add half the water first then remaining as needed for a spreading consistency smooth frosting.

Frost brownies and allow to cool on a wire rack until frosting is firm before cutting into 36 squares.

This is the file photo.