If you grew up loving lunchbox treats, you know there’s something downright magical about Cosmic Brownies. These homemade delights take that nostalgic treat to the next level with rich chocolatey layers, an ultra-creamy ganache topping, and those iconic rainbow candies sprinkled on top. This recipe is a true celebration of fudgy decadence and playful color, perfect for sharing (or keeping all to yourself) whenever you need some joy in your day!
Ingredients You’ll Need
One of the best things about Cosmic Brownies is how they rely on straightforward ingredients to deliver layers of flavor, texture, and irresistible visual appeal. Each component plays a role in creating the brownies’ signature dense, chewy bite and show-stopping top.
- Melted unsalted butter: Adds richness and gives the brownies a super moist, dense crumb.
- Granulated sugar: Brings sweetness and helps the brownies set with that classic, slightly crackly top.
- Light brown sugar: Infuses a bit of caramel-like depth and boosts chewiness.
- Large eggs: Bind everything together and provide structure and fudginess.
- Vanilla extract: Enhances the chocolate flavor—don’t skip this little bit of liquid gold!
- All-purpose flour: Keeps the brownies thick and sturdy without making them cakey.
- Unsweetened cocoa powder: Gives an intensely chocolatey base without extra sweetness.
- Salt: Balances out all that chocolate richness and brightens the flavor.
- Heavy cream: Makes the ganache luscious and silky-smooth.
- Semisweet chocolate chips: Melt down into a glossy ganache—quality matters for the best flavor here.
- Rainbow candy-coated chocolate chips (or rainbow sprinkles): The ultimate finishing touch for that signature Cosmic Brownies look and a pop of fun in every bite!
How to Make Cosmic Brownies
Step 1: Prep Your Pan and Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, making sure to leave a little overhang on the sides for easy brownie removal later. This simple step is key for perfect, clean bars—no sticking, no crumbling, and a breeze to slice.
Step 2: Mix the Brownie Batter
In a large bowl, combine your melted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar. Whisk until smooth and glossy—this is what makes for that ultimate fudge factor! Next, add the eggs and vanilla extract. Whisk again until everything’s fully blended. Sift in the flour, unsweetened cocoa powder, and salt. Now, switch to a spatula or wooden spoon and stir gently, just until there are no more streaks of flour. Overmixing is the enemy of fudgy brownies, so fold with care.
Step 3: Bake to Fudgy Perfection
Pour your luscious batter into the prepared pan and spread it evenly to all corners with an offset spatula or the back of a spoon. Bake for 22 to 25 minutes—keep an eye out for when the center is just set, with the tiniest wobble. That’s your cue for ultra-fudgy Cosmic Brownies! Let them cool completely right in the pan so they firm up and are easy to slice later.
Step 4: Make the Silky Ganache
While the brownies cool, it’s ganache time! Heat the heavy cream in a small saucepan over medium heat, stopping when it just starts to simmer—no need to boil. Pour the hot cream over the semisweet chocolate chips in a heatproof bowl and let it rest for a couple of minutes, then stir until you get a beautifully smooth, glossy ganache. This layer is pure chocolate bliss!
Step 5: Assemble and Chill Your Cosmic Brownies
Once the brownies are fully cool, gently spread the ganache over the top, going all the way to the edges. No need to be too precious—swirls and swoops are welcome! Right away, shower with rainbow candy-coated chips or sprinkles for that unmistakable Cosmic Brownies magic. Pop the pan into the refrigerator and chill for at least an hour so everything sets up blissfully firm and sliceable.
How to Serve Cosmic Brownies
Garnishes
The classic garnish—and honestly, the one you don’t want to skip—is a generous sprinkle of rainbow candy-coated chips or sprinkles, which makes every square extra fun. For an extra flourish, try a pinch of flaky sea salt on top after chilling to intensify the chocolate flavor, or add a swirl of whipped cream for a party-perfect finish.
Side Dishes
Cosmic Brownies are so chocolate-forward that they pair beautifully with simple, creamy sides. Consider serving them with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream, a glass of cold milk, or even some fresh berries to balance out all that richness. If you’re feeling fancy, a shot of espresso or a hot mug of coffee is wonderful alongside—especially if you’re serving these at a grown-up gathering!
Creative Ways to Present
There’s no rule saying you have to cut your Cosmic Brownies into simple squares. Try using fun-shaped cookie cutters for a cosmic party platter, or slice tiny rectangles for a snackable dessert board. For birthdays, tuck individual brownies into colorful cupcake liners or cellophane sleeves for a homemade lunchbox gift that will make anyone’s day.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Your Cosmic Brownies will keep their fudgy bite and delightful crunch from the candy chips for several days if stored properly. Place them in an airtight container, layering parchment or wax paper between layers to prevent sticking, and store at room temperature for up to three days or in the fridge for up to a week.
Freezing
If you want to save some Cosmic Brownies for a future treat, these freeze beautifully! Wrap individual brownies tightly in plastic wrap, then pop them in a freezer bag or airtight container. They’ll stay fresh for up to three months—just thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving (though a few minutes at room temp works in a pinch).
Reheating
If you crave that just-baked aroma and texture, reheat your brownies briefly. A quick 10–15 seconds in the microwave will soften the ganache and make the brownie extra gooey. For a more oven-fresh effect, place a brownie square on a baking sheet in a 300°F oven for about five minutes. Just keep an eye on the toppings—they’ll melt if overheated!
FAQs
Can I use dutch-process cocoa instead of unsweetened cocoa powder?
Absolutely! Dutch-process cocoa will give the brownies an even deeper chocolate flavor and a slightly darker color. Just be sure to use unsweetened, as the recipe’s sugar content is already balanced for a bittersweet, fudgy treat.
How can I tell if Cosmic Brownies are done baking?
Look for the center to be just set—slightly firm, but still with a bit of give if you gently shake the pan. A toothpick inserted near the center should come out with a few moist crumbs, not totally clean. This ensures the brownies stay moist and fudgy as they cool.
Can I make the ganache ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the ganache up to a day in advance. Store it covered at room temperature if you’re using it within a few hours, or in the fridge if you’re making it further ahead. Let it sit out to come to spreading consistency before topping the brownies.
Can I make Cosmic Brownies gluten-free?
Definitely! Swap the all-purpose flour for a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Just check that all your other mix-ins (especially sprinkles) are certified gluten-free for those with sensitivities.
What’s the best way to slice Cosmic Brownies cleanly?
Chill the brownies well, then use a sharp knife dipped in hot water and wiped dry between cuts. This helps you get those bakery-style squares with crisp edges and keeps the ganache looking gorgeous.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly magical about being able to whip up these Cosmic Brownies anytime the craving strikes. Whether you’re sharing them with friends, packing them into lunchboxes, or treating yourself to a chocolatey throwback, this recipe is sure to spark smiles and maybe a bit of childhood wonder. Give them a try—and don’t forget to add those rainbow sprinkles!
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Cosmic Brownies Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 40 minutes
- Yield: 16 brownies 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the cosmic delight of these fudgy homemade Cosmic Brownies topped with a decadent chocolate ganache and colorful rainbow candy-coated chips. Perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth!
Ingredients
Brownies:
- 1 cup unsalted butter (melted)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup packed light brown sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
Ganache:
- ¾ cup heavy cream
- 1 ½ cups semisweet chocolate chips
Topping:
- ½ cup rainbow candy-coated chocolate chips (or rainbow sprinkles)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
- Mix the Brownie Batter: Whisk together melted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar. Add eggs, vanilla, sift in flour, cocoa powder, and salt. Mix until just combined.
- Bake: Pour batter into the pan and bake for 22–25 minutes until set. Let cool.
- Prepare Ganache: Heat cream, pour over chocolate chips, let sit, then stir until smooth.
- Assemble: Spread ganache over cooled brownies, top with rainbow chips/sprinkles. Chill before slicing.
Notes
- For fudgier brownies, underbake slightly and chill overnight.
- You can use chopped M&M’s if rainbow candy chips are not available.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 brownie
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 28g
- Sodium: 90mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 65mg
