1 lb. dark brown sugar
3/4 c. butter
2 tbsp. instant coffee crystals or powder
1 tbsp. hot water
2 eggs
2 tbsp. vanilla
2 c. flour
2 tsp. baking powder
1/2 tsp. salt
1 c. chocolate chips
1 c. chopped pecans or other nuts (opt.)

Heat brown sugar and butter over medium heat until butter is melted. Dissolve coffee in hot water. Stir into (butter) butter mixture. Let cool to room temperature. Beat in eggs (one at a time) and vanilla.

Mix together flour, baking powder and salt. Add to mixture. Stir in chips and nuts. Spread mixture in a 9 x 13 inch buttered baking dish. Bake until light brown at 350 degrees for 25 to 30 minutes. DO NOT OVERBAKE! (Test doneness by touch or with toothpick.)