Happy Birthday Kate

On this day in 1907, a star was born.
Katharine Hepburn, she of the gravel and tobacco voice, elegant pantsuits and aristocratic bearing, would be 102 today.
Oh to be as smart and sassy as she! Is there anyone today who can even compare?

Of all her movies, I'd have to say Philadelphia Story is my favorite. But I also love Guess Who's Coming to Dinner. What's your favorite?

In her honor, I have made Katharine Hepburn Brownies (like I need an excuse to make brownies.) This recipe has been around since Miss Hepburn did an interview with Ladies Home Journal in 1975.
There's also an interesting story about them here .

This recipe is as easy, and much, much better than a boxed brownie mix. Honest. Chewy, fudgy, not too sweet.
And if you line your 8 x 8" pan with non-stick foil, or parchment paper,
you'll only have one pot to wash.

There are many variations. But just like the woman herself, I stuck with the classic.

                                                                                                    






Katharine Hepburn's Brownies

2 oz. unsweetened chocolate

1 stick unsalted butter

1 cup sugar

2 eggs, beaten

1/2 tsp. vanilla extract

1/4 cup flour

1 cup chopped walnut (optional, but again, classic)

Melt butter and unsweetened chocolate in a medium saucepan, over a low heat, stirring constantly. When completely melted, remove from heat and stir in sugar. Add eggs and vanilla, mix until smooth.
Stir in flour. Add nuts if using.
Pour into an 8" x 8" pan, buttered well, or lined (as above).
Bake 35-40 minutes in 325 oven.


Photo originally uploaded by COLARES&ARTE