Cosmic Brownies! Just the name brings back memories of childhood lunchboxes and after-school treats. Those fudgy, chewy brownies topped with colorful candy pieces were pure magic. This recipe captures that same magic but with a homemade twist. Forget the pre-packaged stuff; we’re making Cosmic Brownies from scratch. Get ready for a rich, chocolatey experience that’s even better than you remember.
These brownies are perfect for bake sales, birthday parties, or just a fun weeknight dessert. The best part? Making them is surprisingly easy. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Looking for other fun treats? Check out these Just a Little Bite Recipes. So gather your ingredients, put on your apron, and let’s get baking!
Why these Cosmic Brownies are special
What sets these Cosmic Brownies apart? You control the ingredients! That means rich, high-quality chocolate and the perfect amount of sweetness. Plus, you can get creative with the toppings. Want extra candies? Go for it! Prefer a different kind of sprinkle? It’s all up to you. These homemade Cosmic Brownies are all about customizable deliciousness.
Ingredients
This recipe makes about 16 Cosmic Brownies. Feel free to double the ingredients if you’re baking for a crowd! Need some naturally crunchy granola to go with your dessert?
Dry Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour (for a chewier brownie, try substituting ¼ cup with whole wheat flour)
- ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder (I like Hershey’s Special Dark for a richer flavor)
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup packed light brown sugar
Wet Ingredients
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted (or you can use coconut oil for a dairy-free option)
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup milk (any kind will work, but buttermilk adds a nice tang)
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
Brownie Frosting & Topping Ingredients
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- ¼ cup milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
- 1 cup colorful candy-coated chocolate pieces (like M&Ms or rainbow chips)
Making the Cosmic Brownies
Alright, let’s get baking! Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking pan. You can also line the pan with parchment paper for easier removal later. This is especially helpful if you plan on taking the brownies to a party or potluck.
Preparing the Batter
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This ensures the leavening agents are evenly distributed for a nice, even rise. In a separate bowl, combine the melted butter, eggs, vanilla extract, and milk. Whisk until everything is well combined. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the brownies tough. Overmixing develops the gluten in the flour, and we want these brownies nice and fudgy! Now, fold in the chocolate chips. I like to reserve a handful to sprinkle on top later.
Baking the Brownies
Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with moist crumbs attached. Don’t worry if the toothpick has a few melted chocolate chips stuck to it – that’s perfectly fine! Just make sure the batter isn’t completely wet. Overbaking can result in dry brownies, so start checking for doneness around the 25-minute mark. Let the brownies cool completely in the pan before frosting. Try these Chocolate Pound Cake recipes This is important because if the brownies are too warm, the frosting will melt right off!
Making the Frosting
While the brownies are cooling, make the frosting. In a medium bowl, beat the softened butter until light and fluffy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, beating until smooth. Add the milk, vanilla extract, and salt, and beat until the frosting is light and creamy. If it’s too thick, add a little more milk, a teaspoon at a time. If it’s too thin, add more powdered sugar. You can also add a bit of melted chocolate to the frosting for extra chocolatey goodness! Check out the World’s Best Chocolate Cake recipe for more inspiration.
Decorating with Candy
Once the brownies are completely cool, spread the frosting evenly over the top. Now comes the fun part! Sprinkle the colorful candy pieces over the frosting. Get creative with patterns or just scatter them randomly for a classic Cosmic Brownie look. You can even use different types of candies, sprinkles, or chopped nuts. My kids love helping with this part – it’s like creating edible art! Let the frosting set for a few minutes before cutting and serving. Looking for a fun activity with the kids? Try decorating a Unicorn Cake together.
Tips and Variations
Want to take your Cosmic Brownies to the next level? Here are some tips and variations to try:
Tips for the Perfect Fudgy Brownies
For extra-fudgy brownies, try using melted dark chocolate instead of semi-sweet chips. You can also add a tablespoon of espresso powder to the batter to enhance the chocolate flavor. Don’t overmix the batter, as this can make the brownies tough. And be careful not to overbake! Start checking for doneness a few minutes before the recommended baking time. A slightly underbaked brownie will be fudgier than one that’s been baked for too long. Remember, the brownies will continue to cook a bit as they cool. For some savory options check out these ground beef recipes.
For insights into the nutritional benefits of dark chocolate, check out this article from Healthline.
Brownie Flavor Variations
These Cosmic Brownies are delicious as is, but there are endless possibilities for flavor variations! For a minty twist, add a teaspoon of peppermint extract to the batter and use Andes mints for the topping. Peanut butter lovers can swirl a few tablespoons of peanut butter into the batter and use peanut butter chips instead of chocolate chips. For a mocha flavor, add a tablespoon of instant coffee granules to the batter and use chocolate-covered espresso beans for the topping.
Frosting Flavor Variations
The classic vanilla frosting is a perfect match for these brownies, but don’t be afraid to experiment! Chocolate frosting is always a winner. You can make it by adding ½ cup of melted chocolate to the vanilla frosting recipe. Cream cheese frosting adds a tangy twist. Or, for a truly decadent treat, try peanut butter frosting. Just beat together ½ cup of softened butter, 1 cup of creamy peanut butter, 2 cups of powdered sugar, and ¼ cup of milk. Learn how to make your cottage cheese taste good and sweet!.
Candy Topping Variations
While the traditional candy-coated chocolate pieces are a classic, you can use any type of candy you like! Try chopped Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups, mini marshmallows, or even gummy bears. Sprinkles add a fun and festive touch. You can also use chopped nuts, like pecans or walnuts, for a bit of crunch. Get creative and have fun with it! My kids love to pick out their own favorite candies for decorating.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do cosmic brownies go bad?
Homemade Cosmic Brownies are best enjoyed fresh, but they can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze them for up to 2 months. Just make sure they’re completely cooled before freezing, and wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then foil to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to enjoy them, let them thaw overnight in the refrigerator.
Have cosmic brownies been discontinued?
Good news! Store-bought Cosmic Brownies are still readily available in most grocery stores across the United States. They haven’t been discontinued, so you can still satisfy that nostalgic craving anytime. However, making them at home allows you to control the ingredients and customize the flavors to your liking. Wondering what kind of beans are in Brooks Chili Hot Beans? We’ve got you covered!
What is a cosmic brownie made of?
Both homemade and store-bought Cosmic Brownies feature a rich, chocolatey brownie base topped with colorful candy pieces. However, homemade versions often use higher quality ingredients, like real butter and cocoa powder, compared to the processed ingredients found in store-bought versions. You also have more control over the sweetness and texture when making them from scratch.
Concerned about sugar intake? Learn more about recommended sugar intake from Healthline.
What do cosmic brownies taste like?
Cosmic Brownies have a decadent, fudgy chocolate flavor with a touch of sweetness from the frosting and candy topping. The candy adds a fun crunch and burst of color, making them a truly enjoyable treat for all ages. The combination of rich chocolate and colorful candies creates a flavor explosion that’s both nostalgic and satisfying.
Serving and Storing
Serving Suggestions
Cosmic Brownies are delicious on their own, but they can be even better with a few additions! Serve them warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a classic combination. A cold glass of milk is the perfect complement to the rich chocolatey flavor. For a fancier presentation, arrange the brownies on a dessert platter with other treats like cinnamon roll sugar cookies, fruit, and whipped cream. You can also crumble them up and use them as a topping for yogurt or ice cream.
Storage Advice
To keep your Cosmic Brownies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you live in a humid climate, you might want to store them in the refrigerator to prevent the frosting from getting sticky. For longer storage, you can freeze the brownies for up to 2 months. Make sure they’re completely cooled before freezing, and wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then foil to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to enjoy them, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator or for a few hours at room temperature. Want to know how long to keep homemade soup in the fridge? We have tips for that too!
Conclusion
So there you have it! My family’s favorite recipe for homemade Cosmic Brownies. They’re easy to make, incredibly delicious, and sure to bring a smile to everyone’s face. I hope you enjoy making these as much as we do. Don’t forget to share your creations and let me know how they turn out! Happy baking!