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–+ servings
Walnut Chocolate Cake from Kate Hepburn
This classic brownie recipe, famously attributed to actress Katharine Hepburn, is a beloved example of vintage American baking. Known for her iconic film roles and no-nonsense attitude, Hepburn reportedly shared this recipe as a personal favorite. It embraces simplicity with minimal ingredients, creating dense, fudgy brownies that put modern boxed mixes to shame. The recipe calls for basic pantry staples—unsweetened chocolate, butter, sugar, eggs, and a handful of flour—producing an old-fashioned texture with rich chocolate flavor. Chopped walnuts add a crunchy contrast, making these brownies timelessly irresistible. A delicious bite of Old Hollywood nostalgia!
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Course Dessert, Snack
Cuisine American
Servings 16 brownies
Calories 220 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 2 oz unsweetened chocolate
  • 1/4 lb butter
  • 1 cup sugar
  • 2 eggs
  • 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 1 cup walnuts (chopped (not too fine))

Instructions
 

Step 1: Melt Chocolate & Butter

  • In a saucepan, melt 2 squares of unsweetened chocolate with 1 stick of butter over low heat.
  • Remove from heat once fully melted.

Step 2: Add Sugar

  • Stir in 1 cup sugar until fully combined.

Step 3: Add Eggs and Vanilla

  • Beat in 2 eggs and 1/2 teaspoon vanilla.
  • Stir vigorously ("beat like mad").

Step 4: Add Dry Ingredients

  • Mix in 1/4 cup flour and 1/4 teaspoon salt.

Step 5: Add Nuts

  • Fold in 1 cup chopped walnuts (avoid chopping too fine for best texture).

Step 6: Bake

  • Pour batter into a greased 8x8 inch baking pan.
  • Bake at 325°F (163°C) for 40 minutes.

Step 7: Cool and Serve

  • Allow brownies to cool slightly.
  • Cut into squares and serve.

Tips

  • Substitute pecans for walnuts if preferred.
  • Add ½ cup of chocolate chips for extra fudginess.
  • For gluten-free: use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
  • Sprinkle a touch of sea salt on top before baking for a modern twist.
  • Store brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days.

Nutrition

Serving: 1squareCalories: 220kcalCarbohydrates: 25gProtein: 3gFat: 13gSaturated Fat: 7gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 40mgSodium: 90mgPotassium: 100mgFiber: 2gSugar: 18gVitamin A: 250IUCalcium: 20mgIron: 1.5mg
Keyword bittersweet chocolate, chocolate, classic comfort food, dessert, heirloom, vintage, walnuts
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