Star-Spangled Brownies

Star-Spangled Brownies are a festive, patriotic dessert perfect for 4th of July celebrations. These rich, chocolatey brownies are cut into star shapes and topped with red, white, and blue decorations, making them a show-stopping addition to any holiday table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to prepare with a boxed mix or from scratch
• Festive and fun presentation
• Great for parties, picnics, and potlucks
• Kid-friendly and perfect for decorating together
• Customizable with different toppings and shapes

Ingredients

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

• 1 box brownie mix (for a 9×13-inch pan)
• 2 large eggs
• 1/3 cup brewed coffee, cooled
• 1/3 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 tablespoons cocoa powder
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 6 ounces blue candy melts
• Red, white, and blue sprinkles

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine the brownie mix, eggs, coffee, butter, cocoa powder, and vanilla extract. Stir until smooth.
3. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread it evenly.
4. Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.
5. Let the brownies cool completely in the pan.
6. Once cooled, use a star-shaped cookie cutter to cut out brownie stars.
7. Transfer the brownie stars to a wire rack.
8. Melt the blue candy melts according to the package instructions.
9. Drizzle the melted candy over the brownie stars.
10. Immediately add red, white, and blue sprinkles before the candy melts set.
11. Let the decorations harden before serving or storing.

Servings and timing

• Servings: About 10 star-shaped brownies (varies with cutter size)
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes

Variations

• Use homemade brownie batter instead of a boxed mix
• Try other holiday-themed cookie cutter shapes
• Substitute candy melts with white chocolate tinted with food coloring
• Mix in chocolate chips or nuts to the batter for added texture
• Top with whipped cream or frosting instead of candy melts

Storage/Reheating

• Store decorated brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days
• Refrigerate for up to 5 days if needed
• Freeze undecorated brownies for up to 2 months; thaw before decorating
• Reheat briefly in the microwave, though decorations may melt

FAQs

What kind of brownie mix works best?

A standard 9×13-inch pan-size mix, like Betty Crocker or Ghirardelli, works perfectly.

Can I skip the coffee?

Yes, you can use water, but coffee enhances the chocolate flavor without tasting like coffee.

How do I make clean star shapes?

Make sure the brownies are completely cooled, and wipe or grease the cutter between cuts.

What should I do with the leftover brownie pieces?

Use them in trifles, parfaits, or enjoy as snack bites.

Can I use frosting instead of candy melts?

Yes, frosting works well for topping and decorating the brownie stars.

Are these brownies freezer-friendly?

Yes, especially if you freeze them before decorating.

Can I make these a day in advance?

Absolutely! Bake and cut the brownies the day before, and decorate the day of.

Are these safe for kids to help make?

Yes, especially the decorating part—kids will love adding sprinkles.

How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Use a gluten-free brownie mix and verify all decorations are gluten-free too.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, use two pans or a larger baking sheet and adjust the baking time as needed.

Conclusion

Star-Spangled Brownies are the perfect patriotic treat—easy to make, fun to decorate, and guaranteed to impress your guests. Whether you’re hosting a 4th of July bash or attending a potluck, these festive brownies are a delicious way to show your American pride.

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