Ridiculously Easy Brownies

Come on and admit it. We have all been there. It's the evening, you're kicked back relaxing for the night. Comfies are on, hair is pulled up, and suddenly you remember. Food day in the office tomorrow. Ugh.

While I rarely buy prepackaged mixes, I cannot deny they are handy in emergencies such as this. Brownie mix, in particular. Brownies are easy to make, don't require a lot of fussy decorating or frosting and just about everyone loves them, right? Of course! So when faced with the dreaded Tomorrow Is Food Day And I Didn't Make A Thing....... brownies (and a secret stash of brownie mix) are my go-to emergency food.

The occasion this time was Cinco de Mayo. Bring your favorite Mexican food to share, they requested. Mexican? How do you make nachos for an office potluck? I work for a huge company. I am NOT making a bazillion enchiladas or tacos for 100 people. Instead, 2 boxes of brownie mix and a 10x15 sheet pan made life so much easier. How did I manage to get brownies to fit in the Mexican theme? Easy- ever heard of Mexican hot chocolate? A little cinnamon.....a little chocolate........

Ridiculously Easy "Mexican" Brownies

2 packages (9x13 size) brownie mix

1 1/3 cups oil

4 eggs

2 teaspoons cinnamon

1 small bag sliced almonds

1 cup cinnamon chips*

You will find these in the chocolate chip area- I used half the bag, approximately one cup

In a large bowl combine all ingredients except the almonds and chips. Spread the batter in a 10x15 sheet pan that has been sprayed with cooking spray. Sprinkle the almonds and cinnamon chips evenly over the top. Bake at 350 degrees for 30 minutes.

Allow the brownies to cool completely before cutting. This make a TON of brownies- great for a crowd or party, and super easy. I used the no-name store brand brownie mix, just the plain one, no caramel or anything else in the mix. They turn out ooey and gooey and just the perfect brownie soft and chewy consistency. The cinnamon really warms up the bars and the chips are absolutely delicious. Believe it or not I got a ton of compliments!