Name: Cosmic Brownies
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 2 h 10 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3/4 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup brown sugar; 2 large eggs; 1/2 cup unsalted butter; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips (for ganache); 1/4 cup candy-coated chocolate chips or rainbow sprinkles (for topping)

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Rich, fudgy texture that melts in your mouth
Perfectly sweet chocolate ganache topping
Topped with rainbow candy chips for a fun, nostalgic look
Tastes better than store-bought with fresher ingredients
Easy to make with simple pantry staples
Kid-friendly and party-ready
Great for make-ahead dessert planning
Ideal for lunchboxes, birthdays, and bake sales
Customizable with different toppings or fillings
Freezer-friendly for long-term storage

Ingredients

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

All-purpose flour
Unsweetened cocoa powder
Salt
Granulated sugar
Brown sugar
Eggs
Unsalted butter
Vanilla extract
Heavy cream
Semi-sweet chocolate chips (for ganache)
Candy-coated chocolate chips or rainbow sprinkles (for topping)

Directions

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving overhang for easy removal.
In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, and salt. Set aside.
In a large saucepan over low heat, melt the butter. Remove from heat and whisk in both sugars until smooth.
Add the eggs and vanilla extract to the butter mixture and whisk until fully incorporated.
Stir in the dry ingredients until just combined. Do not overmix.
Pour the brownie batter into the prepared pan and spread it evenly.
Bake for 20–25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.
Let the brownies cool completely in the pan before adding the ganache.
For the ganache, heat the heavy cream in a small saucepan until just simmering. Pour over the chocolate chips in a bowl and let sit for 2–3 minutes. Stir until smooth and glossy.
Spread the ganache evenly over the cooled brownies and top with candy-coated chocolate chips.
Chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour before slicing into squares.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 9 large or 12 small brownies.
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 25 minutes
Cooling and chilling time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Total time: About 2 hours 10 minutes

Variations

Nutty Cosmic Brownies: Add chopped walnuts or pecans into the batter for extra texture.
Mint Chocolate Twist: Add a few drops of mint extract to the ganache or batter.
Peanut Butter Swirl: Swirl in a few spoonfuls of peanut butter into the brownie batter before baking.
Double Chocolate: Mix chocolate chunks into the batter for even more chocolate flavor.
Holiday Version: Use themed sprinkles or colored candy chips for seasonal events.
Salted Caramel Topping: Drizzle caramel and a pinch of sea salt over the ganache layer.

Storage/Reheating

Store brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
To freeze, wrap individual brownies in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They will keep for up to 3 months.
Thaw in the fridge overnight or at room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving.

FAQs

What makes these brownies different from regular brownies?

Cosmic brownies are denser and topped with ganache and candy chips, giving them a distinct texture and nostalgic flavor.

Can I make them without the candy topping?

Yes, you can skip the candy topping or replace it with sprinkles, mini M&Ms, or chopped nuts.

How do I get clean cuts when slicing brownies?

Chill the brownies thoroughly and use a sharp knife wiped clean between each cut.

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

Yes, but it will result in a sweeter ganache. Adjust based on your preference.

Are these brownies chewy or cakey?

They are chewy and fudgy, just like the original cosmic brownies.

Can I make these brownies gluten-free?

Yes, substitute the flour with a gluten-free 1:1 baking blend.

What kind of cocoa powder should I use?

Use unsweetened cocoa powder, preferably Dutch-process for a richer chocolate flavor.

Can I double the recipe for a larger batch?

Yes, double the ingredients and bake in a 9×13-inch pan. Adjust the baking time accordingly.

Do I have to refrigerate them after adding ganache?

Refrigerating helps the ganache set, but you can leave them at room temperature once set.

Can I add frosting instead of ganache?

You can, but ganache gives the classic cosmic brownie finish and pairs best with the dense brownie base.

Conclusion

Cosmic brownies are a fun, delicious throwback treat that delivers on flavor, texture, and visual appeal. With their fudgy base and colorful topping, they’re perfect for kids and adults alike. Whether you’re reliving your favorite childhood snack or introducing it to the next generation, this homemade version is sure to impress and satisfy any chocolate lover.