Heat oven to 350 degrees.

Grease an 8” square baking pan with non-stick cooking spray.

In a medium bowl stir together the butter, sugar, eggs and vanilla. Add the flour, cocoa and salt stirring just until blended. Mix in half of the walnuts, if desired.

Spread the mixture and sprinkle with remaining the walnuts. Bake about 30 minutes, until the top appears dry and the center is set.

Cool the brownies in pan on wire rack. Cut the brownies into squares.

NOTE: To toast walnuts, spread on baking sheet.

Bake in 350 degrees oven stirring occasionally, about 10 minutes or until lightly browned.

Remove from oven and cool completely.