These Cosmic Brownies are a nostalgic blast from the past — ultra-fudgy, topped with glossy chocolate ganache and colorful candy-coated sprinkles. A fun and easy treat that tastes just like your favorite lunchbox dessert, only better and made from scratch!
✨ Why You’ll Love This
✔ Nostalgic flavor with homemade upgrades
✔ 3 secret tips for ultra-fudgy texture
✔ No fancy equipment needed
✔ Kid-approved (and adult-approved too!)
Yields: About 16 brownies
Prep time: 20 minutes
Cook time: 25-30 minutes
Ingredients:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, melted
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
For the Ganache Frosting:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter
- 6 cups powdered sugar
- 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- ½ cup milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Rainbow candy sprinkles (for topping)
Equipment:
- 9×13 inch baking pan
- Parchment paper
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk or electric mixer
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Rubber spatula
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the pan.
- Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides. This will make it easier to lift the brownies out later.
Step 2: Whisk butter and sugar.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the melted butter and granulated sugar until well combined. The mixture should be smooth.
Step 3: Add eggs and vanilla.
- Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
Step 4: Combine dry ingredients.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.
Step 5: Combine wet and dry ingredients.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed (if using an electric mixer) or with a spatula until just combined. Be careful not to overmix. The batter will be thick.
Step 6: Pour batter into pan.
- Pour the brownie batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly with a spatula.
Step 7: Bake the brownies.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with moist crumbs attached.
Step 8: Cool completely.
- Let the brownies cool completely in the pan on a wire rack before frosting. This is important for the frosting to set properly.
Step 9: Make the ganache frosting.
- While the brownies are cooling, prepare the frosting. In a large saucepan over low heat, melt the butter. Remove from heat and whisk in the powdered sugar and cocoa powder until smooth. Gradually whisk in the milk and vanilla extract until the frosting is creamy and glossy. If the frosting seems too thick, add a little more milk, one tablespoon at a time, until the desired consistency is reached.
Step 10: Frost the brownies.
- Once the brownies are completely cool, pour the warm ganache frosting evenly over the top. Use a spatula to spread it smoothly.
Step 11: Add sprinkles.
- Immediately sprinkle the rainbow candy sprinkles generously over the wet frosting before it sets.
Step 12: Cut and serve.
- Allow the frosting to set completely before cutting the brownies into squares and serving. Enjoy your homemade Cosmic Brownies!
📊 Nutrition (Per Brownie)
| Calories | 320 |
|---|---|
| Protein | 4g |
| Carbs | 40g |
| Sugar | 30g |
(With full frosting and toppings)
💡 Pro Tips
✅ Extra fudgy: Underbake by 2-3 mins
✅ No candy chips? Use M&Ms or sprinkles
✅ Clean cuts: Chill before slicing with a hot knife
🍽️ Serving Ideas
- Lunchbox Throwback
- Wrap individually in wax paper
- Ice Cream Sundae
- Serve warm with vanilla ice cream
- Gift Idea
- Stack in cellophane bags with ribbon
Enjoy your delicious homemade Cosmic Brownie!
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