Description
Nostalgic “cosmic brownies” deliver rich chocolate intensity with playful rainbow sprinkle nostalgia from childhood lunchbox memories. Perfect dessert squares combine fudgy chocolate layers and colorful candy coating for sweet weekend indulgence.
Ingredients
Scale
Primary Ingredients:
- 1 cup (226 grams) unsalted butter, melted
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 ½ cups semisweet chocolate chips
Sugars:
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ¾ cup light brown sugar, packed
Additional Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- ¼ cup rainbow candy-coated chocolate chips (like mini M&Ms)
Instructions
- Prepare the baking vessel by lining a 9×13-inch pan with parchment paper or applying a light grease coating to prevent sticking.
- Create a silky base by vigorously whisking melted butter with granulated and brown sugars until the mixture becomes smooth and fully integrated.
- Introduce eggs and vanilla extract, stirring thoroughly to ensure a uniform, glossy consistency.
- In a separate mixing bowl, combine flour, cocoa powder, salt, and baking powder, using a whisk to eliminate any potential lumps.
- Gently incorporate the dry ingredient mixture into the wet ingredients, folding with delicate strokes until just combined. Avoid overmixing to maintain the brownies’ tender texture.
- Transfer the velvety batter into the prepared pan, using a spatula to distribute evenly and create a perfectly level surface.
- Slide the pan into a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven, allowing the brownies to bake for 25-30 minutes. The ideal doneness is indicated by a toothpick that emerges with a few moist crumbs when inserted into the center.
- Remove from the oven and allow the brownies to cool completely, giving them ample time to set and develop their rich, fudgy character.
- Once cooled, prepare to enhance the brownies with a decadent ganache topping, creating the iconic cosmic brownie appearance.
Notes
- Swap butter with coconut oil for a dairy-free version that maintains rich, fudgy texture.
- Use gluten-free flour blend to make these brownies celiac-friendly without compromising taste.
- Reduce sugar by 25% and add mashed banana for healthier moisture and natural sweetness.
- Line pan with aluminum foil for easier removal and perfect square cuts every time.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Desserts, Snacks
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 12
- Calories: 367
- Sugar: 30 g
- Sodium: 75 mg
- Fat: 22 g
- Saturated Fat: 13 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 39 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 4 g
- Cholesterol: 70 mg