How to Throw a Cinco de Mayo Party - Treats

Mexican Cinnamon Brownies - Bake a batch of these slightly spiced brownies is a great way to celebrate Cinco de Mayo (May 5th).

3 ounces unsweetened chocolate squares
1/2 cup butter (1 stick)
3 eggs
1 cup sugar
3/4 cup light brown sugar
1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
3/4 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
1 cup chopped pecans

1. Heat oven to 350 degrees.  Melt the chocolate squares and the butter in a saucepan over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally.  Remove pan from heat and allow the mixture to cool, about 15 minutes.
2. Meanwhile, in a large bowl, whisk the eggs until they are foamy, then add sugars and the vanilla extract, and whisk until they are well combined.  Stir in the chocolate until it is thoroughly combined.
3. In a medium-sized bowl, stir together the flour, baking powder, salt and cinnamon.  Add the dry ingredients to the egg-and-sugar mixture and beat until smooth.  Fold in pecans.
4. Pour the batter into a lightly greased 13- by 9-inch pan and bake for 25 to 30 minutes or until a knife inserted into the center comes out clean.  Makes approximately 24 brownies.  

Top brownies with vanilla bean ice cream, if desired.