Brownies: Naughty & Nice

"I hate brownies!", said no one ever. I started baking brownies at the tender age of 8 with a recipe from my first cookbook, aptly named "Kid's Cookbook". Given that I have difficulties following instructions, they didn't turn out very well but I have found my go-to recipes! These are my two favorite Brownie recipes for very different reasons.

NAUGHTY
The first is quick, lowfat, ridiculously simple and beyond delicious.The consistency is a crazy combo of chewy fudge and crispy edges. I heard of this recipe several years ago and it stuck in my head because you need two things:

Brownie Mix- I LOVE this one!

And the very controversial drink:

AND THAT'S IT!

I know what you're thinking.....I was reluctant also but it works and never fails to please! These are also Marisol's favorite, I can't count how many times I've made these for her. :) You take the Brownie box mix of your choice (literally any), dump it in a bowl and add diet coke ounce by ounce, mixing very well until it reaches the right consistency (probably about 1/2 cup-2/3 cup). You then follow the heating directions on the box and viola! These are perfect if you are:
- short on time
- can live with yourself after eating gluten, sugar and artificial sweetners (all currently damned ingredients)
- cutting down on fat
- run out of oil, eggs or butter

From thespunkycoconut.com!

NICE
The second is VIRTUOUS, grain-free,  and requires an involved grocery trip. This consistency retains it's brownie nature of fudgey, moist and chewy! Recipe here from thespunkycoconut.com. These are perfect if you are:
- not currently eating any gluten, grains, eggs
- shun artificial sweetners (nice job!)
- have time

Enjoy whichever you choose and remember to share and savor the moment!

-Zi