1/2 c. butter
6 tbsp. cocoa
1 c. sugar
1 egg
1 tsp. vanilla extract
3/4 c. flour
1/2 tsp. baking powder
1/4 tsp. salt
1/2 c. chopped nuts (optional)

Use an 8 inch square baking dish and shield the corners with foil or a 9 inch round dish. Place butter and cocoa in baking dish. Microwave on high 1 to 1 1/2 minutes until butter melts. Stir in sugar thoroughly. Add remaining ingredients in order given. Mix well. If using a square dish, shield the corners with foil so they do not over cook. Microwave on high 5 1/2 to 6 minutes, rotating 1/2 turn after 2, 4, and 5 minutes or until top is no longer wet. Cool on a heat proof counter top. Store tightly sealed. Yield: 12-16 brownies.