Joni's Brownies

2 (1 ounce) squares unsweetened chocolate

1/2 cup butter or margarine

2 eggs

1cup sugar

1 teaspoon vanilla

3/4 cup flour

1/2 teaspoon baking powder

1/4 teaspoon salt

1 cup chopped nuts (optional)

          Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Melt chocolate and butter. Sift flour and other dry ingredients. Mix eggs and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in chocolate and vanilla. Mix in flour mixture. Beat at medium speed for 3 minutes, scraping sides of bowl. Stir in chopped nuts by hand if using. Bake in an 8x8 inch or 9x9 inch pan. Bake at 350 degrees for 25-30 minutes.