Katharine Hepburn’s three rules for life (and the brownie recipe she swore by)

Katharine Hepburn wasn’t just one of Hollywood’s most acclaimed actresses – she was also a woman with a refreshingly practical outlook on life. Fiercely independent, unapologetically herself and never one to suffer fools, Hepburn famously shared three simple rules she lived by: never quit, be yourself, and whatever you do … don’t put too much flour in your brownies.

The first two helped shape an extraordinary life and career. The third? Well, that just makes for an excellent afternoon tea. Today, we’re sharing Hepburn’s no-nonsense life advice – along with her much-loved brownie recipe that’s rich, gooey and reassuringly unfussy. Consider this a small thank you to Miss Hepburn for reminding us to stick it out, stand our ground and always leave room for dessert.

KATHARINE HEPBURN’S BROWNIES

1/2 cup cocoa

1 stick butter

2 eggs

1 cup sugar

1/4 cup flour

1 cup broken-up walnuts or pecans

1 teaspoon vanilla

pinch of salt

Preheat oven to 165 C degrees. Melt butter in saucepan with cocoa and stir until smooth. Remove from heat and allow to cool for a few minutes. Mix in eggs, one at a time. Add sugar, flour, nuts, vanilla and salt. Pour into a greased 20cm x 20cm  square pan. Bake 40 minutes. ”Don’t overbake!” They should be gooey. Let cool (an essential step) and cut into bars.