Cosmic Brownies Recipe

Irresistibly Fudgy Cosmic Brownies Recipe That Kids Adore

Cosmic brownies burst with childhood nostalgia, transporting you back to lunchbox memories and sweet indulgences.

These decadent squares carry a rich chocolate heritage that transcends simple dessert status.

School cafeterias and corner store displays once showcased these iconic treats, sparking joy among sugar-loving kids.

Soft, fudgy textures combine with a signature rainbow chip topping that defines their unmistakable charm.

Recreating these beloved squares at home allows you to control quality and customize every delicious detail.

Homemade versions elevate the classic treat with premium ingredients and personal flair.

Prepare to unlock a world of chocolatey memories that will delight both kids and adults alike.

Cosmic Brownies That Spark Nostalgia

  • Chocolate Lover's Dream: These cosmic brownies deliver an intense chocolate experience with rich, fudgy layers that melt perfectly in your mouth, satisfying every chocolate craving.
  • Quick and Easy Homemade Delight: Prepare these brownies in under an hour with simple ingredients and straightforward steps, making them perfect for spontaneous baking sessions or last-minute dessert needs.
  • Nostalgic Treat with Gourmet Twist: Recreate the classic childhood lunch box favorite with a sophisticated homemade version, featuring smooth chocolate ganache and colorful sprinkles that elevate the traditional recipe to a decadent dessert.
  • Impressive Crowd-Pleaser: The combination of dense chocolate base and silky chocolate topping creates a show-stopping dessert that looks professionally made but can be easily prepared at home, making it ideal for potlucks, parties, or family gatherings.

Everything You Need for Homemade Cosmic Brownies

Base Ingredients:
  • Butter: Rich, creamy base that adds moisture and depth to brownies.
  • Sugar: Sweetens and helps create a tender brownie texture.
  • Eggs: Provide structure and help bind the brownie ingredients together.
  • Vanilla: Enhances overall flavor with warm, sweet notes.
Dry Ingredients:
  • Flour: Provides structure and helps create the classic brownie consistency.
  • Cocoa Powder: Delivers deep chocolate flavor and dark color.
  • Salt: Balances sweetness and enhances overall taste.
Chocolate Topping Ingredients:
  • Heavy Cream: Creates smooth, rich chocolate ganache for topping.
  • Chocolate: Adds luxurious chocolate layer with intense flavor.
  • Butter: Helps create a glossy, smooth chocolate topping.
  • Sprinkles: Adds colorful, fun decoration to mimic classic cosmic brownies.
  • Milk: Helps create a smooth, moist brownie batter.

How to Bake Fudgy Brownies with Colorful Sprinkles

Step 1: Prepare Baking Setup

Warm up the oven to 350°F. Line a 9″ x 9″ square pan with parchment paper, creating overhangs on both sides. Spray the pan with cooking spray to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Melt Butter

Place butter in a large microwave-safe bowl. Zap in 30-second bursts until completely melted and smooth.

Step 3: Combine Sugar and Butter

Whisk sugar into the melted butter until well blended. Transfer the mixture to a mixer bowl.

Step 4: Create Creamy Base

Beat the sugar-butter mixture on medium speed for 2-3 minutes until light and fluffy.

Step 5: Add Wet Ingredients

Introduce eggs and vanilla to the bowl. Beat for another 2-3 minutes until the mixture turns pale yellow and becomes thick.

Step 6: Mix Dry Ingredients

Add dry ingredients:
  • Flour
  • Cocoa powder
  • Salt

Mix on low speed until just combined. Gently stir in milk until the batter is smooth.

Step 7: Prepare for Baking

Pour batter into the prepared pan, spreading evenly with a spatula.

Step 8: Bake to Perfection

Bake for 20-25 minutes. Check doneness by inserting a toothpick – it should come out clean or with minimal crumbs.

Step 9: Cool Down

Allow brownies to cool completely at room temperature.

Step 10: Create Chocolate Topping

In a medium bowl, heat heavy cream in the microwave (20-second intervals) until very hot but not boiling.

Step 11: Make Chocolate Glaze

Add chopped chocolate to hot cream. Let sit for 1 minute, then stir until smooth. Mix in butter until fully melted.

Step 12: Finish and Decorate

Pour chocolate over brownies, spreading evenly with a spatula. Sprinkle colorful decorations on top.

Step 13: Set and Serve

Chill brownies for 1-2 hours until the topping sets. Use parchment paper to lift brownies from the pan. Slice into squares and enjoy your cosmic treat!

Tips for Moist and Dense Cosmic Brownies

  • Measure Precisely: Use exact measurements for flour, cocoa, and sugar to ensure consistent texture and rich chocolate flavor.
  • Mix Gently: Avoid overmixing the batter to prevent tough, dense brownies; stop mixing as soon as ingredients are incorporated.
  • Check Doneness Early: Start testing brownies at 20 minutes to prevent overbaking, which can dry out the texture.
  • Cream Technique: Heat cream carefully to create a smooth ganache; don't let it boil, which can break the chocolate's structure.
  • Chill Completely: Allow brownies to set fully in the refrigerator to achieve that classic, fudgy cosmic brownie texture and clean cutting lines.

How to Store and Reheat Cosmic Brownies Without Drying

  • Refrigerate brownies in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Cover the bottom and top layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Seal tightly to maintain moisture and freshness.
  • Freeze brownies by wrapping individual pieces in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe container. They'll stay delicious for 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before enjoying.
  • Reheat brownies gently in the microwave for 10-15 seconds to restore their soft, fudgy texture. Avoid overheating, which can dry out the chocolate. Serve slightly warm for the best taste experience.

What to Enjoy with Your Cosmic Brownie Squares

  • Brew the Perfect Chocolate Companion: Pair these rich cosmic brownies with a smooth, full-bodied espresso or a creamy cappuccino to enhance the chocolate's deep flavor profile.
  • Sip a Sweet Beverage Harmony: Complement the dessert with a cold glass of milk or a vanilla almond milk, which will balance the intense chocolate and provide a refreshing contrast.
  • Create a Dessert Wine Experience: Serve alongside a ruby port or a sweet dessert wine like Moscato, whose fruity undertones will beautifully match the chocolate's decadent texture.
  • Elevate with Ice Cream Indulgence: Top the brownies with a scoop of vanilla bean or salted caramel ice cream, creating a luxurious dessert combination that melts in your mouth.

Fun Flavor Variations for Cosmic Brownies

  • Nutty Cosmic Crunch: Incorporate chopped almonds or pecans into the brownie batter for added texture and a rich, nutty flavor. Sprinkle extra nuts on top of the chocolate ganache for extra crunch.
  • Salted Caramel Galaxy: Drizzle homemade salted caramel sauce over the chocolate ganache before adding sprinkles. The sweet-salty combination elevates the classic brownie to a new level of deliciousness.
  • Espresso Cosmic Blast: Mix 1-2 tablespoons of instant espresso powder into the brownie batter to create a deep, coffee-infused chocolate experience. Top with dark chocolate ganache for an intense flavor profile.
  • Mint Chocolate Cosmos: Add 1/2 teaspoon of peppermint extract to the brownie batter and use mint chocolate chips in the ganache. Garnish with crushed peppermint candies for a cool, refreshing twist.
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Cosmic Brownies Recipe

Cosmic Brownies Recipe


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4.6 from 12 reviews

  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 12 1x

Description

Cosmic Brownies blast classic chocolate indulgence into another galaxy of flavor. Rich fudgy layers packed with nostalgic sprinkle magic invite you to relive childhood dessert memories with each delightful bite.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 4 ounces (113 grams) semisweet chocolate, chopped
  • 4 ounces (113 grams) milk chocolate, chopped
  • ½ cup (120 milliliters) heavy cream

Finishing Ingredients:

  • 1 tablespoon (15 milliliters) butter, cut into 4 pieces
  • ½ cup (75 grams) rainbow chip sprinkles

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (177°C) and prepare a 9-inch × 9-inch square baking pan by lining it with parchment paper, ensuring overhang on both sides for easy removal. Lightly coat the parchment with cooking spray.
  2. Melt the butter in a large microwave-safe bowl using 30-second intervals until completely liquefied.
  3. Whisk the sugar into the melted butter until thoroughly combined and smooth.
  4. Transfer the butter-sugar mixture to a stand mixer and beat on medium speed for 2-3 minutes until the texture becomes light and fluffy.
  5. Incorporate eggs and vanilla extract into the mixture, beating for an additional 2-3 minutes until the batter turns pale yellow and achieves a thick consistency.
  6. Gradually add flour, cocoa powder, and salt to the mixture. Mix on low speed until ingredients are just integrated, being careful not to overmix.
  7. Gently stir in milk until the batter becomes uniformly smooth.
  8. Pour the batter into the prepared pan, using a spatula to distribute evenly across the surface.
  9. Bake for 20-25 minutes, checking doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center. The toothpick should come out with minimal crumbs or clean.
  10. Allow brownies to cool completely at room temperature.
  11. Heat heavy cream in a medium bowl using 20-second microwave intervals until very hot but not boiling.
  12. Add chopped chocolate to the hot cream, letting it sit for one minute before stirring until a smooth ganache forms.
  13. Incorporate butter into the chocolate mixture, stirring until completely melted and glossy.
  14. Pour the chocolate ganache over the cooled brownies, using a spatula to create an even layer.
  15. Sprinkle decorative toppings across the chocolate surface for added texture and visual appeal.
  16. Refrigerate the brownies for 1-2 hours until the chocolate topping sets completely.
  17. Using the parchment paper overhang, lift the brownies from the pan and slice into square portions.
  18. Serve and enjoy the rich, decadent treats.

Notes

  • Achieve bakery-style cosmic brownies with this homemade recipe that rivals the classic Little Debbie treat.
  • Use room temperature eggs and butter for smoother batter and more consistent brownie texture.
  • Ensure accurate measurements by using a kitchen scale for precise ingredient quantities.
  • Allow brownies to cool completely before adding chocolate ganache to prevent melting and ensure clean, crisp topping.
  • Sprinkle rainbow chips while chocolate is still soft to help them adhere perfectly to the surface.
  • Store brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days for maximum freshness and soft texture.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Desserts, Snacks
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 12
  • Calories: 250 kcal
  • Sugar: 20 g
  • Sodium: 100 mg
  • Fat: 15 g
  • Saturated Fat: 9 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
  • Trans Fat: 0.5 g
  • Carbohydrates: 28 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 3 g
  • Cholesterol: 30 mg
Liam O'Brien

Liam O’Brien

Founder & Recipe Developer

Expertise

  • Traditional Irish Dishes
  • Farm-to-Table Cooking
  • Recipe Creation
  • Teaching Cooking Skills
  • Sustainable Food Practices

Education

Dublin Institute of Technology (now Technological University Dublin)

  • Program: Bachelor of Arts in Culinary Arts
  • Focus: Hands-on training in cooking techniques, kitchen management, and exploring both Irish and international cuisines.

Ballymaloe Cookery School, County Cork, Ireland

  • Program: 12-Week Certificate Course
  • Focus: Farm-to-table cooking, emphasizing the use of fresh, local ingredients and traditional cooking methods.

Liam O’Brien is the co-founder and kitchen soul behind Good Tasting Meals, a chef who believes that cooking shouldn’t feel stressful or complicated.

He earned his culinary stripes at Technological University Dublin and polished his farm-to-table skills at Ballymaloe Cookery School. With over 15 years flipping pans and stirring up stories, Liam has worked in family cafés, bustling bistros, and everything in between.

At Good Tasting Meals, Liam brings you recipes that feel like home: cozy, simple, and full of flavor.

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