2 c. all-purpose flour
2 c. granulated sugar
1/2 c. butter
1/2 c. shortening
1 c. strong brewed coffee or water
1/4 c. dark unsweetened cocoa
1/2 c. buttermilk
2 eggs
1 tsp. baking soda
1 tsp. vanilla

FROSTING:

1/2 c. butter
2 tbsp. dark cocoa
1/4 c. milk
3 1/2 c. unsifted powdered sugar
1 tsp. vanilla

In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and sugar. In a microwave-safe dish, combine butter, shortening, coffee or water and cocoa. Microwave at high power for 2 minutes or until just boiling. Pour boiling mixture over flour mixture. Stir to blend. Add buttermilk, eggs, baking soda and vanilla. Mix well. Pour mixture into a microwave-safe 9x11 inch baking dish. Microwave at medium high power for 18 minutes, turning dish every 4 to 5 minutes until brownies test done. They may still appear soft on the surface.

Prepare Frosting: In a microwave-safe dish, combine the butter, cocoa and milk. Microwave at high power for 2 minutes, stirring once. Add powdered sugar and vanilla. Stir to blend. Pour warm frosting over hot brownies. Let cool. Cut into bars. Makes 48 brownies.