Maple-Frosted Brownies

• brownie mix1

  (19 1/2 ounce) package

• vegetable oil↗1⁄2 cup
• water↗1⁄4 cup
• large eggs↗2
• maple extract↗2 teaspoons
• walnuts1 cup

  coarsely chopped, preferably lightly toasted

• Maple Frosting↗
• powdered sugar1 1⁄2 cups

  sifted

• cream cheese↗1

  (3 ounce) package, softened

• unsalted butter↗1 tablespoon

  softened

• maple extract↗2 teaspoons

Step-by-step instructions

1. 1

   Preheat oven to 350°; place oven rack in the lower third of the oven.

2. 2

   Spray the bottom only of an 8-inch square baking pan with cooking spray.

3. 3

   In a bowl, combine the brownie mix, oil, water, eggs, and maple extract with a wooden spoon until just blended and all dry ingredients are moistened.

4. 4

   Stir in the chopped walnuts.

5. 5

   Spread batter into prepared pan.

6. 6

   Bake 40-44 minutes or until pick comes out clean or almost clean (do not overbake).

7. 7

   Transfer to a wire rack and cool completely.

8. 8

   Frosting: in a bowl, beat powdered sugar, cream cheese, butter, and maple flavoring until smooth.

9. 9

   Spread frosting over cooled brownies; cut into square; store in refrigerator.