These brownies are soft, chewy, and loaded with intense chocolate flavor. Unlike the packaged version, homemade Cosmic Brownies are free from preservatives and can be customized to your taste. They’re easy to make, fun to decorate, and perfect for parties, lunchboxes, or a chocolate craving fix. Plus, the candy sprinkles on top make them an instant hit with kids and adults alike.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Unsalted butter
Granulated sugar
Brown sugar
Eggs
Vanilla extract
Unsweetened cocoa powder
All-purpose flour
Salt
Cornstarch (for extra softness)
Semi-sweet chocolate chips
Heavy cream
Candy-coated chocolate pieces (like rainbow chips or mini M&Ms)
Directions
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
In a large bowl, melt the butter. Stir in the granulated sugar and brown sugar until combined.
Add the eggs and vanilla extract, whisking until smooth.
Sift in the cocoa powder, flour, salt, and cornstarch. Stir just until combined—do not overmix.
Pour the thick batter into the prepared baking pan and smooth the top.
Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with moist crumbs (not wet batter).
Let the brownies cool completely in the pan.
While the brownies cool, heat the heavy cream in a small saucepan until steaming (not boiling).
Pour the hot cream over the chocolate chips in a bowl. Let sit for 1–2 minutes, then stir until smooth and glossy to create the ganache.
Spread the ganache evenly over the cooled brownies.
Immediately sprinkle the candy-coated chocolate pieces on top.
Chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour to set the ganache before slicing and serving.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes 9 large or 16 smaller brownies. Prep time: 15 minutes Bake time: 25 minutes Chill time: 1 hour Total time: 1 hour 40 minutes
Variations
Double chocolate: Add chocolate chips to the brownie batter for extra richness.
Peanut butter swirl: Swirl in some peanut butter before baking for a nutty twist.
Gluten-free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend to make them gluten-free.
Mint version: Add a few drops of peppermint extract to the ganache for a minty upgrade.
Holiday theme: Use colored sprinkles to match a holiday or party theme.
Storage/Reheating
Store the brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days, or refrigerate them for up to 1 week. For longer storage, freeze them for up to 2 months, with parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking. To enjoy from frozen, thaw at room temperature or microwave for a few seconds. Reheating is optional—these are delicious cold or at room temp.
FAQs
What makes these brownies different from regular brownies?
Cosmic Brownies are extra fudgy, topped with a chocolate ganache, and finished with colorful candy pieces for that signature look and texture.
Can I use boxed brownie mix?
Yes, if you’re short on time, prepare a boxed brownie mix and add the ganache and candy topping for a semi-homemade version.
How do I make the brownies extra fudgy?
Avoid overbaking and be sure to use a combination of brown sugar and melted butter, which helps create that chewy texture.
Can I use milk chocolate instead of semi-sweet for the ganache?
Yes, though milk chocolate will result in a sweeter ganache. Semi-sweet balances the richness of the brownie base.
Why do I need to chill the brownies?
Chilling helps set the ganache, making the brownies easier to slice cleanly and giving them their classic dense texture.
What are the best candy sprinkles to use?
Rainbow candy-coated chocolate chips or mini M&Ms work great. You can also use confetti sprinkles for a colorful twist.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, double the ingredients and bake in a 9×13-inch pan. Increase the baking time slightly and check for doneness with a toothpick.
Are these brownies good for parties?
Absolutely! They’re visually fun and easy to transport, making them perfect for birthday parties, bake sales, or holiday events.
Do I need a mixer for this recipe?
No, this recipe can be made entirely by hand using a whisk and spatula—just be sure to mix the batter well.
How do I cut brownies cleanly?
Use a sharp knife dipped in hot water and wiped clean between cuts to get neat, bakery-style brownie squares.
Conclusion
Homemade Cosmic Brownies are a nostalgic treat that brings together rich chocolate flavor, a creamy ganache topping, and playful sprinkles in every bite. They’re fun to make, easy to customize, and guaranteed to satisfy your sweet tooth. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or simply craving a childhood favorite, these brownies are sure to be a hit.
Homemade Cosmic Brownies are rich, fudgy brownies topped with a smooth chocolate ganache and colorful candy-coated sprinkles. Inspired by the nostalgic lunchbox treat, these brownies are even better made from scratch.
Author:Catherine
Prep Time:15 minutes
Cook Time:25 minutes
Total Time:1 hour 40 minutes
Yield:9–16 brownies
Category:Dessert
Method:Baking
Cuisine:American
Diet:Vegetarian
Ingredients
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
3/4 cup all-purpose flour
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon cornstarch
1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips (for ganache)
1/2 cup heavy cream (for ganache)
1/4 cup candy-coated chocolate pieces (e.g., rainbow chips or mini M&Ms)
Instructions
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper or grease lightly.
In a large bowl, mix melted butter with granulated and brown sugar until combined.
Whisk in eggs and vanilla extract until smooth.
Sift in cocoa powder, flour, salt, and cornstarch. Stir until just combined—do not overmix.
Spread batter evenly into prepared pan and smooth the top.
Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out with moist crumbs.
Let brownies cool completely in the pan.
Heat heavy cream in a small saucepan until steaming (not boiling). Pour over chocolate chips in a bowl.
Let sit 1–2 minutes, then stir until smooth to form ganache.
Spread ganache over cooled brownies. Immediately sprinkle candy-coated chocolate pieces on top.
Chill in refrigerator for at least 1 hour to set ganache before slicing.
Notes
For extra fudgy brownies, do not overbake and use both brown sugar and melted butter.Let ganache set completely before slicing for clean cuts.Use a hot knife for neat slices.Customize with different sprinkles or flavor extracts like mint or almond.Recipe can be doubled for a 9×13-inch pan. Adjust baking time accordingly.
