Easy Brownies

1/2 C. butter or margarine
1 C. granulated sugar
1 t. vanilla
2 eggs
1/4 C. cocoa
3/4 C. flour
1/2 C. chopped nuts (optional)

* * Melt butter and let cool. Stir in granulated sugar and vanilla. Beat in eggs, beating well between each one. Stir cocoa and flour together, and blend into creamed mixture. Blend in nuts. Press into greased and floured 8-inch square pan. Bake at 350 degrees for 25-30 minutes. Do not overbake! Cool pan on wire rack before cutting into squares.

* * We like to top them with chocolate frosting OR powdered sugar.