Dear Abby's Brownies

Step 1: Preheat oven to 350 degrees.

Step 2: Line the bottom of an 18x12x2 inch baking pan with baking parchment paper

Step 3: Butter heavily(2 tablespoons butter) and spray generously with cooking spray.

Step 4: In the top of a double boiler

Step 5: Over medium heat, melt butter and 4 ounces chocolate.

Step 6: Reserve.

Step 7: In a large bowl

Step 8: Beat sugar and eggs until fluffy.

Step 9: Add flour and salt, mixing well.

Step 10: Add chocolate mixture, blending thoroughly.

Step 11: Stir in nuts and vanilla.

Step 12: Pour into prepared baking pan.

Step 13: (Batter should be about 1/2 inch thick, no more.) Bake for 35 to 40 minutes, or until the top is crisp and the toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. (They dry out if overbaked,)

Step 14: Cool before pouring frosting over the top.

Step 15: For frosting:

Step 16: Bring cream to a boil, stirring constantly.

Step 17: Place chopped chocolate in a medium bowl

Step 18: Pour boiling cream over the chocolate and stir to blend well.

Step 19: Spread a thin layer of warm frosting over the cooled brownies