Indulge in the ultimate treat with this Cosmic Brownie Recipe, a heavenly blend of rich chocolate and fudgy perfection. Each bite delivers a velvety texture that melts in your mouth, balanced by a satisfying crunch from colorful candy toppings. Ready in under an hour, these brownies are a quick yet decadent way to satisfy your sweet tooth. The deep cocoa flavor, paired with a hint of sweetness, makes them irresistible for any occasion.
These brownies are not just delicious but also easy to whip up, with prep and cook times totaling just 47 minutes. Perfect for sharing or savoring solo, they’re a crowd-pleaser that brings joy with every bite. The gooey center and crisp edges create a delightful contrast, while the vibrant toppings add a playful touch. Whether for a party or a cozy night in, these brownies are sure to become a favorite.
Cosmic Brownie Ingredients
- 12 Tablespoons (170 g) butter (cut into Tablespoon-sized pieces)
- ¾ cup (75 g) natural cocoa powder
- 1 cup (200 g) granulated sugar
- ½ cup (100 g) brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon (5 ml) vanilla extract
- 2 large eggs + 1 large egg yolk (lightly beaten)
- 1 ¼ cup (145 g) all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch (cornflour for UK)
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup (175 g) semisweet chocolate chips
- ½ cup (88 g) milk chocolate chips
- ⅓ cup (79 ml) heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon (5 ml) vanilla extract
- ⅛ teaspoon salt
- 2 Tablespoons candy-coated chips (for topping)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the pan: Lightly grease and flour a 13×9-inch pan or line it with parchment paper. Preheat the oven to 350°F (177°C).
- Melt the butter: Place the butter in a large, microwave-safe bowl and microwave until completely melted.
- Add cocoa powder: Stir in the cocoa powder until well combined.
- Mix in sugars: Add the granulated sugar and brown sugar, stirring until fully incorporated.
- Incorporate eggs: Add the eggs and egg yolk one at a time, stirring well after each addition.
- Add vanilla: Stir in the vanilla extract and set the mixture aside.
- Combine dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, and salt.
- Mix wet and dry ingredients: Gradually stir the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until completely combined.
- Bake: Evenly spread the batter into the prepared pan and bake at 350°F (177°C) for 16-18 minutes. Allow the brownies to cool completely before frosting.
- Make the frosting: In a medium-sized saucepan over medium-low heat, combine the semisweet chocolate chips, milk chocolate chips, and heavy cream. Stir until the chocolate is completely melted and the mixture is smooth.
- Finish the frosting: Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract and salt. Let the frosting cool for 5-10 minutes.
- Frost the brownies: Evenly pour the frosting over the cooled brownies, using a spatula to spread it evenly.
- Add toppings: Immediately sprinkle the candy-coated chips over the frosting.
- Set the frosting: Allow the frosting to harden (about 1 hour at room temperature or 15 minutes in the refrigerator) before cutting and serving.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Store your Cosmic Brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week. For longer storage, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply microwave a slice for 10-15 seconds for a warm, gooey treat.
Recipe Variations to Try
Feel free to mix things up! Swap the candy-coated chips for chopped nuts, mini marshmallows, or even a drizzle of caramel. For a richer flavor, use dark chocolate chips in the frosting. If you’re feeling adventurous, add a pinch of espresso powder to the brownie batter for a subtle coffee kick.
Time-Saving Hacks
To speed up the process, use a double boiler for the frosting instead of a saucepan—it’s easier to control the heat and prevents burning. If you’re in a rush, skip the candy chips or use pre-made chocolate ganache for the frosting. Prepping your pan and ingredients before starting will also save you time.
Equipment Guidance
A 13×9-inch baking pan is essential for this recipe. If you don’t have parchment paper, greasing and flouring the pan works just as well. A silicone spatula is perfect for spreading the batter and frosting evenly. For precise measurements, use a kitchen scale for ingredients like cocoa powder and chocolate chips.
Common Questions Answered
Can I use Dutch-process cocoa powder?
Yes, but it may slightly alter the flavor.
What if I don’t have cornstarch?
You can omit it, but it helps create a fudgier texture.
Can I use all granulated sugar?
Absolutely, though brown sugar adds moisture and depth.
How do I know when the brownies are done?
A toothpick inserted should come out with a few moist crumbs, not wet batter.
Cosmic Brownie Recipe
Ingredients
- 12 Tablespoons butter cut into Tablespoon-sized pieces
- 3/4 cup natural cocoa powder
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 large eggs + 1 large egg yolk lightly beaten
- 1 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Frosting
- 1 cup semisweet chips
- 1/2 cup milk chocolate chips
- 1/3 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/8 teaspoon salt
- 2 Tablespoons candy coated chips
Instructions
- Prepare a 13×9 pan by lightly greasing and flouring, or line with parchment paper. Preheat oven to 350F.
- Place butter in a large, microwave-safe bowl, and microwave until completely melted.
- Stir in cocoa powder.
- Add sugars, and stir well.
- Add eggs, one at a time, stirring well after each addition.
- Stir in vanilla extract. Set aside.
- In a separate, medium-sized bowl, whisk together flour, cornstarch (cornflour for UK), and salt.
- Gradually stir dry ingredients into wet until completely combined.
- Evenly spread into prepared pan and bake on 350F (177C) and bake for 16-18 minutes. Allow to cool completely before frosting.
- Frosting
- Combine chocolate chips and heavy cream in a medium-sized saucepan over medium-low heat. Stir well until chocolate is completely melted and mixture is smooth.
- Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract and salt. Allow to cool 5-10 minutes before proceeding.
- Evenly pour frosting over brownies, using a spatula to spread evenly.
- Immediately sprinkle candy chips over top. Allow frosting to harden (about 1 hour) before cutting and eating (this can be sped up if you place the brownies in the refrigerator for about 15 minutes).