The Palmer House Brownie
The Palmer House Brownie is a legendary dessert that has become a staple in the world of American sweets. Created in the late 19th century at the Palmer House hotel in Chicago, this decadent treat has a rich history and a delicious reputation. The story goes that Bertha Palmer, the wife of hotel owner Potter Palmer, asked the hotel's pastry chef to create a dessert that could be easily packed in box lunches for the ladies attending the Chicago World's Columbian Exposition in 1893. The result was the Palmer House Brownie, a rich and fudgy chocolate confection that has stood the test of time.
Prep Time:
10 mins
Cook Time:
35 mins
Additional Time:
30 mins
Total Time:
1 hr 15 mins
Servings:
16
Yield:
1 9x12-inch pan
Ingredients
Directions
Step 1
Preheat the oven to 300 degrees F (150 degrees C). Grease a 9x12-inch rimmed baking sheet.
Step 2
Make brownies: Place butter and chocolate in the top of a double boiler over simmering water. Stir frequently, scraping down the sides with a rubber spatula to avoid scorching, until chocolate is melted, about 5 minutes.
Step 3
Combine sugar and flour in a large bowl. Add chocolate mixture to sugar mixture; mix until well combined, 4 to 5 minutes. Mix in eggs and vanilla extract. Pour batter into the prepared baking sheet. Sprinkle walnuts on top, pressing them down slightly into batter.
Step 4
Bake in the preheated oven until edges start to crisp and brownies rise about 1/4 inch, 30 to 40 minutes.
Step 5
Make glaze: Mix together water, preserves, and unflavored gelatin in a saucepan over high heat; bring to a boil. Cook, stirring occasionally, until thickened, about 2 minutes.
Step 6
Allow brownies to cool for 30 minutes, then spread a thin layer of glaze on top with a pastry brush.
Nutrition Facts (per serving)
640
Calories
47g
Fat
52g
Carbs
9g
Protein
Complement
The Palmer House Brownie has since become an iconic dessert, loved by locals and tourists alike. It is known for its dense, chewy texture and intense chocolate flavor, making it a favorite indulgence for sweet tooths everywhere. The recipe for the Palmer House Brownie has been closely guarded and passed down through generations, ensuring that its original flavor and charm remain intact. Today, visitors to the Palmer House hotel can still enjoy this timeless dessert, as it continues to be a beloved part of the hotel's culinary offerings.
