THE BEST NON-BROWNIES OF ALL

RECIPES THAT TAKE THE CAKE, MAKE THE GRADE AND GIVE YOU THE FEELING THAT YOU’RE MAKING THE WORLD A BETTER PLACE.

Of course you want to have a recipe that will make you greatly loved and appreciated, at least for a day or however long these "blondies" last, and that's exactly what this recipe is. They're good because they are full of so many good things like butter and chocolate chips and nuts and such. Even when you're pressed for time and don't really want to try a new recipe because you're not sure if it will turn out or if it will really be as good as one of your 'same old same old' recipes, you can count on this one to turn out beautifully--first time, every time. There are several similar recipes out there, but this is the best one I've found so far. There is really no big secret to it--it's all fairly simple and straightforward, but the results are nothing short of spectacular. Wow! These could actually become your secret weapon--you could use them as a bribe and probably get almost anything in exchange for a batch of "The Best Non-Brownies Of All". At least it's worth a try! Here's the recipe:

Nonstick spray (Pam)

1+ 1/2 sticks unsalted butter

1 T. + 3/4 tsp. canola oil

1+ 3/4C. brown sugar

2 large eggs

2 tsp. real vanilla

2 C. flour

2 tsp. baking powder

1 tsp. salt

1 C. semi-sweet chocolate chips

1 1/2 C. chopped nuts (either pecans or walnuts)

1. Soften the butter in the microwave. Spray a 9" X 13" pan or baking dish with Pam. Position the rack in the middle of the oven. Preheat to 350 degrees.

2. Chop the nuts and set aside.

3. Mix the eggs and vanilla together and set aside. Beat the softened butter, canola oil and brown sugar together for 5-6 minutes. If you have a Kitchen-Aid, use the large paddle and set it on a medium speed.

4. Slowly add the egg mixture to the brown sugar and butter. Beat well for about 30 seconds.

In a separate bowl, mix together the flour, salt and baking powder. Slowly incorporate it into the batter. Continue beating until it is all mixed together. Stop the mixer and scrape down the sides of the bowl often to make sure it is all well-mixed.

5. Gradually fold in the chocolate chips and 1 cup of the nuts. Spread the batter into the baking dish, flattening it out with a rubber spatula or spoon. Then sprinkle on the rest of the chopped nuts to the top.

6. Bake for 20 minutes on one side. Then turn the pan around in the oven and bake for another 15 minutes. This will ensure that they bake evenly on both sides.

7. Allow them to cool and then cut into 16 pieces. They will disappear right before your eyes.

Enjoy!