BROWNIES:

2 sticks butter
6 oz. unsweetened chocolate bars
2 1/2 c. sugar
5 eggs
2 tsp. vanilla extract
1/2 tsp. salt
1 1/2 c. flour
2 c. walnuts (optional)

ICING:

6 tbsp. butter
1/2 c. cocoa powder
2 2/3 c. confectioners' sugar
1/3 c. milk
1 tsp. vanilla

Preheat oven to 375 degrees.

In small saucepan, melt butter and chocolate over low heat. Stir until mixture is smooth. Remove from heat and cool 10 minutes.

In large mixer bowl, beat sugar, eggs, vanilla and salt. Fold in chocolate mixture, then gradually add flour. Stir in nuts, if used. Pour into greased 9x13 inch pan. Bake 30-35 minutes. Cool completely then frost.

For icing: Cream butter in small mixer bowl. Add cocoa and confectioners' sugar alternately with milk. Beat to spreading consistency (additional) tablespoon of milk may be necessary). Blend in vanilla.