Cosmic Brownies

Cosmic Brownies are a nostalgic childhood favorite, featuring rich, fudgy brownies topped with a smooth chocolate ganache and colorful rainbow candy-coated sprinkles. Inspired by the iconic store-bought version, this homemade recipe delivers even better flavor and texture while keeping that classic look. Perfect for lunchboxes, parties, or simply indulging in a chocolatey treat!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Ultra-Fudgy Texture – These brownies are dense, moist, and rich.
• Smooth Chocolate Ganache – A creamy topping that adds an extra layer of decadence.
• Just Like the Classic – A homemade version of the nostalgic Little Debbie treat.
• Easy to Make – Simple ingredients and straightforward steps.
• Fun and Colorful – The rainbow sprinkles make these brownies extra fun for kids and adults alike.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Brownies:

• Unsalted butter
• Granulated sugar
• Brown sugar
• Eggs
• Vanilla extract
• All-purpose flour
• Unsweetened cocoa powder
• Cornstarch
• Baking powder
• Salt
• Heavy cream (optional, for extra moisture)

For the Chocolate Ganache:

• Semi-sweet chocolate chips
• Heavy cream
• Butter

For the Topping:

• Rainbow candy-coated chocolate sprinkles

Directions

Making the Brownies:

1. Preheat Oven – Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper.
2. Melt Butter – In a saucepan or microwave, melt the butter and let it cool slightly.
3. Mix Wet Ingredients – In a large bowl, whisk together melted butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract.
4. Combine Dry Ingredients – In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, cornstarch, baking powder, and salt.
5. Mix Everything Together – Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined.
6. Bake – Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.
7. Cool Completely – Allow the brownies to cool before adding the ganache.

Making the Chocolate Ganache:

1. Heat Cream – In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream until just simmering (do not boil).
2. Melt Chocolate – Pour the warm cream over the chocolate chips and let it sit for a minute. Stir until smooth.
3. Add Butter – Stir in butter until fully melted and incorporated.
4. Spread Over Brownies – Pour the ganache over the cooled brownies, spreading evenly.

Adding the Topping:

1. Sprinkle Candy Pieces – Immediately sprinkle rainbow candy-coated chocolates on top of the ganache.
2. Chill to Set – Refrigerate the brownies for about 30 minutes to let the ganache firm up before slicing.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: Makes about 12-16 brownies
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
• Cooling & Chilling Time: 45 minutes
• Total Time: About 1 hour 30 minutes

Variations

• Nutty Cosmic Brownies – Add chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter.
• Extra Chocolatey – Use dark chocolate in the ganache for a richer flavor.
• Peanut Butter Twist – Swirl peanut butter into the brownie batter before baking.
• Gluten-Free Option – Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
• Salted Caramel Cosmic Brownies – Drizzle caramel sauce over the ganache before adding sprinkles.

Storage/Reheating

• Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Refrigeration: Keep in the fridge for up to a week for extra freshness.
• Freezing: Freeze for up to 3 months, tightly wrapped. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.
• Reheating: Enjoy cold or at room temperature—no reheating needed!

FAQs

How do I make my brownies extra fudgy?

Use more butter and sugar, and avoid overbaking. Adding a little cornstarch also helps with the texture.

Can I use milk chocolate instead of semi-sweet for the ganache?

Yes, but it will be much sweeter. You can balance it by reducing the sugar in the brownie batter.

What can I use if I don’t have heavy cream for the ganache?

You can substitute with whole milk, but the ganache will be slightly thinner.

How do I cut clean brownie squares?

Chill the brownies first, then use a sharp knife wiped clean between cuts.

Can I use a boxed brownie mix?

Absolutely! Just prepare as directed and follow the recipe for the ganache and topping.

Are Cosmic Brownies meant to be chewy or cakey?

They should be dense, chewy, and fudgy—not cakey.

Where can I find rainbow candy-coated sprinkles?

Most grocery stores sell them, or you can order online. M&M Minis are a great substitute.

Can I add espresso powder to enhance the chocolate flavor?

Yes! Adding 1 teaspoon of espresso powder deepens the chocolate flavor without making them taste like coffee.

Do I have to refrigerate these brownies?

It’s not required, but chilling them helps set the ganache and makes them even fudgier.

Can I double the recipe for a larger batch?

Yes, just bake in a larger pan and adjust baking time as needed.

Conclusion

Homemade Cosmic Brownies are a fun, delicious, and nostalgic treat that tastes even better than the store-bought version. With a rich fudgy brownie base, silky chocolate ganache, and colorful candy sprinkles, these brownies are perfect for kids and adults alike. Make a batch today and enjoy every chewy, chocolatey bite!

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