Name: Milk and Cereal Brownies and Blondies Recipe
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 5 h
Yield: 24
Ingredients: non-stick cooking spray; FOR BLONDIES:; ½ cup brown sugar; 1 ½ sticks unsalted butter; 2 large eggs; 1 yellow cake mix; For Brownies:; 1 box brownie mix; For Topping:; 3 tbsp cold water; 1 tbsp gelatin powder; 12 oz cream cheese; ¼ cup granulated sugar; ½ tsp kosher salt; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 2 ½ cups heavy cream; 1 cup rice cereal; 2 tbsp cocoa powder; 2 cups cereal

Indulge in the ultimate comfort dessert with these milk and cereal brownies and blondies. Combining the classic flavors of rich brownies and buttery blondies with a nostalgic cereal twist, this recipe is perfect for any sweet tooth craving. Easy to assemble and incredibly delicious, they are sure to become your new favorite treat.

Photos of Milk and Cereal Brownies and Blondies Recipe

For this recipe, you may need a few ingredients that aren't always in your pantry. Gelatin powder is essential for the topping and provides a unique texture. You'll also need cream cheese, which adds a creamy richness, and kosher salt, known for its coarse texture. Additionally, the heavy cream is vital for the luxurious topping, and the rice cereal and other cereal varieties bring a delightful crunch.

Ingredients For Milk And Cereal Brownies And Blondies

non-stick cooking spray: Used to grease the baking pans, ensuring your baked goods don't stick.

brown sugar: Adds moisture and a deep caramel flavor to the blondies.

unsalted butter: Provides richness and helps to create a tender crumb in the blondies.

eggs: Acts as a binder and adds moisture to both the blondies and brownies.

yellow cake mix: Simplifies the blondie preparation, giving them a soft and fluffy texture.

brownie mix: The base for the rich, fudgy brownies.

cold water: Used to dissolve the gelatin powder for the topping.

gelatin powder: Provides structure to the creamy topping.

cream cheese: Adds a creamy, tangy richness to the topping.

granulated sugar: Sweetens the topping, balancing the tanginess of the cream cheese.

kosher salt: Enhances the overall flavor and balances sweetness.

vanilla extract: Adds a warm, sweet aroma to the topping.

heavy cream: Whipped to create a light and fluffy topping for both the blondies and brownies.

rice cereal: Provides a crunchy texture element to the brownies.

cocoa powder: Adds a rich chocolate flavor to the brownie topping.

cereal: Used as a topping to add a fun, colorful crunch to the dessert.

One reader, Amity Charlton says:

This milk and cereal brownies and blondies recipe is a delightful twist on classic treats! The combination of creamy toppings and crunchy cereal adds a fun texture and flavor. Perfect for any occasion, these bars are a hit with both kids and adults. Highly recommend giving them a try!

Amity Charlton

Baking Techniques for Perfect Brownies and Blondies

How to melt butter: Melt the butter in a microwave-safe bowl in 20-30 second intervals, stirring in between until fully melted. How to mix batter: Use an electric hand mixer on the specified speed settings to combine ingredients until smooth. How to bake: Preheat the oven to the specified temperature and bake the mixture for the recommended time until the desired doneness is achieved. How to prepare gelatin: Combine gelatin powder with cold water, let it sit, and then dissolve it with heated cream. How to whip cream: Use an electric hand mixer to whip heavy cream until it reaches a light and fluffy consistency. How to assemble: Layer the whipped cream mixture and cereal over the baked blondies and brownies, then refrigerate to set.

How To Make Milk and Cereal Brownies and Blondies

Make a delicious and creative dessert of brownies and blondies made with milk, cream cheese, peanut butter, and fruit-flavored rice cereal. Yummy!

Preparation: 30 minutes

Cooking: 30 minutes

Refrigerate Time: 4 hours

Total: 5 hours

Serves:

Ingredients

non-stick cooking spray,for greasing

For Blondies:

½cupbrown sugar
1 ½sticksunsalted butter,melted
2largeeggs
1yellow cake mix

For Brownies:

1boxbrownie mix,batter prepared according to package instructions

For Topping:

3tbspcold water
1tbspgelatin powder
12ozcream cheese,at room temperature
¼cupgranulated sugar,plus 1 tbsp
½tspkosher salt
1tspvanilla extract
2 ½cupsheavy cream,divided, plus 3 tbsp
1cuprice cereal,fruit-flavored, crushed, plus 1 cup, whole
2tbspcocoa powder
2cupscereal,peanut butter and chocolate-flavored

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Grease two 9×13-inch baking pans with non-stick spray and line with parchment paper.

Blondies:

In a large bowl, combine the brown sugar, melted butter, and eggs. Mix with an electric hand mixer on medium speed until combined.
Add the yellow cake mix and mix on low speed until just combined. Pour the batter into a prepared baking pan and spread evenly.

Brownies:

Pour the brownie batter into the remaining prepared baking pan and spread evenly.
Bake for 28 to 30 minutes, or until the blondies are golden brown, slightly crackly, and a toothpick inserted in the center of the brownies comes out mostly clean with a few moist crumbs. Let cool completely.

Topping:

Add the cold water and gelatin powder to a small bowl. Mix with a fork to combine. Set aside while whipping the cream.
In a large bowl, combine the cream cheese, granulated sugar, salt, and vanilla. Mix with an electric hand mixer on medium-high speed for about 3 minutes, until smooth.
With the mixer running on low speed, slowly stream in 2½ cups of heavy cream. Once the cream has been incorporated, continue mixing on high speed for about 2 minutes, or until light and fluffy.
Microwave the remaining 3 tablespoons of heavy cream for 15 seconds, then pour on top of the gelatin mixture. Stir with a fork just until the gelatin dissolves.
Add the gelatin mixture to the whipped cream, then whip on high speed for 2 minutes.
To Assemble Blondies: Pour half of the whipped cream mixture over the cooled blondies and spread evenly.
Sprinkle the crushed fruit cereal over the cream, then top with the whole fruit cereal, pressing lightly into the cream. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until ready to serve.
To Assemble Brownies: Pour the remaining whipped cream over the cooled brownies and spread evenly.
Sift the cocoa powder over the cream, then top with the peanut butter and chocolate-flavored cereal, pressing lightly into the cream. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until ready to serve.
To serve, remove the chilled blondies and brownies from the refrigerator. Lift from the pan and onto a cutting board, then cut each into 12 pieces. Enjoy!

Nutrition

Calories: 1889.06kcal
Fat: 188.14g
Saturated Fat: 116.62g
Trans Fat: 3.76g
Monounsaturated Fat: 51.87g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 7.22g
Carbohydrates: 49.22g
Fiber: 0.93g
Sugar: 31.50g
Protein: 9.75g
Cholesterol: 600.10mg
Sodium: 427.54mg
Calcium: 248.72mg
Potassium: 263.25mg
Iron: 1.60mg
Vitamin A: 1809.65µg
Vitamin C: 1.43mg

Crucial Technique for Achieving the Perfect Texture in Brownies and Blondies

When making the whipped cream topping, ensure that the cream cheese is at room temperature before mixing. This will help achieve a smoother and more consistent texture, preventing any lumps from forming in the mixture.

Time-Saving Tips for Making Milk and Cereal Brownies and Blondies

Prepare ingredients in advance: Measure and set out all ingredients before starting to streamline the process.

Use pre-made mixes: Opt for yellow cake mix and brownie mix to save time on preparation.

Multitask efficiently: While the blondies and brownies bake, prepare the topping to maximize your time.

Chill quickly: Place the blondies and brownies in the fridge to cool faster, allowing you to assemble the topping sooner.

Use an electric mixer: An electric hand mixer speeds up the mixing process for both the batter and whipped cream.

Substitute Ingredients For Milk and Cereal Brownies and Blondies Recipe

non-stick cooking spray - Substitute with butter or oil: Butter or oil can be used to grease the pan and prevent sticking, providing a similar non-stick effect.
brown sugar - Substitute with white sugar with molasses: Mixing white sugar with a small amount of molasses can mimic the moisture and flavor of brown sugar.
unsalted butter - Substitute with margarine: Margarine can be used as a direct replacement for butter in baking, offering a similar texture and fat content.
eggs - Substitute with flaxseed meal and water: Mixing 1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal with 3 tablespoons of water per egg can act as a binding agent in baking.
yellow cake mix - Substitute with homemade cake mix: Combine flour, sugar, baking powder, and a pinch of salt to create a homemade version of cake mix.
brownie mix - Substitute with homemade brownie mix: Combine flour, cocoa powder, sugar, baking powder, and a pinch of salt to create a homemade version of brownie mix.
cold water - Substitute with milk: Milk can be used to dissolve gelatin, adding a richer flavor to the mixture.
gelatin powder - Substitute with agar-agar: Agar-agar is a plant-based gelatin substitute that can be used to achieve a similar texture.
cream cheese - Substitute with Greek yogurt: Greek yogurt can provide a similar creamy texture and tangy flavor as cream cheese.
granulated sugar - Substitute with coconut sugar: Coconut sugar can be used as a natural sweetener with a lower glycemic index.
kosher salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt can be used in the same quantity and provides a similar flavor profile.
vanilla extract - Substitute with almond extract: Almond extract can provide a different but pleasant flavor in baked goods.
heavy cream - Substitute with coconut cream: Coconut cream can be used to provide a similar richness and texture in recipes.
rice cereal - Substitute with cornflakes: Cornflakes can provide a similar crunchy texture in recipes.
cocoa powder - Substitute with carob powder: Carob powder can be used as a caffeine-free alternative to cocoa powder.
cereal - Substitute with granola: Granola can provide a similar crunchy texture and added flavor to the topping.

Presentation Ideas for Milk and Cereal Brownies and Blondies

Serve smaller portion sizes: Cut the blondies and brownies into bite-sized pieces to create an elegant and refined presentation. This allows the intricate flavors to be savored without overwhelming the palate.
Use decoration: Garnish each piece with a delicate drizzle of melted chocolate or caramel sauce. Add a sprinkle of edible gold leaf for a touch of luxury and visual appeal.
Layer textures: Create a multi-layered presentation by stacking a blondie piece on top of a brownie piece. This not only adds height to the dish but also combines the contrasting textures and flavors in each bite.
Incorporate fresh elements: Add a few fresh berries or a sprig of mint on the side of each serving. This introduces a fresh, vibrant element that complements the richness of the desserts.
Use elegant plating: Place the blondies and brownies on a pristine white plate to highlight their colors and textures. Use a fine brush to add a light dusting of cocoa powder or powdered sugar around the edges of the plate for a sophisticated touch.
Highlight the cereal topping: Ensure the cereal toppings are prominently displayed by arranging them neatly on top of the whipped cream. This not only adds a crunchy texture but also showcases the playful element of the dish.
Create a focal point: Use a small dollop of whipped cream or a chocolate curl as a focal point on each piece. This draws the eye and adds an extra layer of indulgence.
Serve with a complementary beverage: Pair the blondies and brownies with a small glass of milk or a shot of espresso. This enhances the overall experience and provides a classic combination that complements the flavors of the desserts.
Add a touch of crunch: Sprinkle a few crushed nuts or toasted coconut flakes around the plate. This adds an additional layer of texture and flavor, elevating the dish to a new level of sophistication.
Use a stylish serving tray: Present the blondies and brownies on a sleek, modern serving tray. This not only makes it easier to serve but also adds a touch of elegance to the overall presentation.

Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Brownies and Blondies

Non-stick cooking spray: To grease the baking pans and ensure the baked goods don't stick.
9x13-inch baking pans: To bake the blondies and brownies.
Parchment paper: To line the baking pans for easy removal of the baked goods.
Large bowl: To mix the ingredients for the blondies and the topping.
Electric hand mixer: To combine ingredients and whip the cream to the right consistency.
Small bowl: To mix the gelatin and water.
Fork: To mix the gelatin and water together.
Microwave: To heat the heavy cream for the gelatin mixture.
Toothpick: To check the doneness of the blondies and brownies.
Plastic wrap: To cover the blondies and brownies while they chill in the refrigerator.
Cutting board: To cut the chilled blondies and brownies into pieces.
Knife: To cut the blondies and brownies into pieces.
Sifter: To sift the cocoa powder over the whipped cream on the brownies.

Storage and Freezing Instructions for Milk and Cereal Brownies and Blondies

To store the milk and cereal brownies and blondies, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, or place them in an airtight container. They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
For longer storage, you can freeze the brownies and blondies. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil, and place them in a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
To thaw frozen brownies and blondies, transfer them to the refrigerator and let them thaw overnight. Alternatively, you can let them thaw at room temperature for a few hours.
If you prefer a slightly warm brownie or blondie, you can reheat them in the microwave for a few seconds before serving.
It's best to store the brownies and blondies without the whipped cream topping if you plan to freeze them. You can add the topping after thawing and before serving for the best texture and flavor.

Interesting Trivia About Brownies and Blondies

A fun fact about this recipe is that it combines the classic flavors of brownies and blondies with a unique twist by incorporating cereal toppings. This not only adds a delightful crunch but also introduces a nostalgic element, reminiscent of childhood breakfasts.

Is Making Milk and Cereal Brownies and Blondies at Home Cost-Effective?

This dessert recipe combines blondies and brownies with a unique cereal topping, making it a delightful treat. The ingredients, including cream cheese, heavy cream, and gelatin, are relatively affordable and easy to find. The use of cake mix and brownie mix simplifies the preparation process, saving time and effort. For a household of 4, the approximate cost is around $20-$25. Overall Verdict: 8/10.

Are Milk and Cereal Brownies and Blondies Healthy or Unhealthy?

This recipe for milk and cereal brownies and blondies is undoubtedly delicious, but it is far from healthy. The main ingredients include:

High amounts of sugar (brown sugar, granulated sugar, and sugar from the cake and brownie mixes)
Significant amounts of butter and heavy cream, which are high in saturated fats
Processed ingredients like cake mix and brownie mix
Minimal nutritional value from the cereal toppings

The combination of these ingredients results in a dessert that is high in calories, sugar, and unhealthy fats, while lacking essential nutrients like fiber, vitamins, and minerals.

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following modifications:

Replace some of the butter with healthier alternatives like Greek yogurt, applesauce, or mashed avocado
Use whole wheat flour instead of cake mix and brownie mix, and reduce the amount of sugar in the recipe
Incorporate more nutritious toppings like fresh fruits, nuts, and seeds, which provide fiber, healthy fats, and essential nutrients
Reduce the portion sizes to control calorie intake
Use low-fat cream cheese and a sugar substitute to lower the calorie and sugar content in the topping

By making these adjustments, you can create a more balanced treat that still satisfies your sweet tooth while providing some nutritional benefits. However, it's important to remember that even with these modifications, this dessert should still be enjoyed in moderation as part of a well-rounded diet.

Editor's Opinion on This Unique Brownie and Blondie Recipe

This recipe ingeniously combines the nostalgic flavors of milk and cereal with the indulgence of brownies and blondies. The use of yellow cake mix for the blondies adds a delightful sweetness, while the brownie mix ensures a rich, fudgy texture. The whipped cream topping, enhanced with gelatin for stability, provides a creamy contrast. The addition of fruit and chocolate-flavored cereals adds a playful crunch and visual appeal. Overall, it's a fun and innovative dessert that balances textures and flavors beautifully, making it a crowd-pleaser for both kids and adults.

Enhance Your Milk and Cereal Brownies and Blondies Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Roasted Vegetable Medley: Complement the rich and indulgent milk and cereal brownies and blondies with a vibrant Roasted Vegetable Medley. The caramelized edges of carrots, zucchini, and bell peppers will bring a delightful contrast to the sweetness of your dessert.

Grilled Pineapple Skewers: Add a tropical twist to your dessert spread with Grilled Pineapple Skewers. The smoky, caramelized pineapple chunks will pair beautifully with the creamy and crunchy textures of your brownies and blondies.

Spiced Sweet Potato Fries: Balance the sweetness of your dessert with the savory and slightly spicy notes of Spiced Sweet Potato Fries. The crispy sweet potatoes seasoned with cinnamon and paprika will add a delightful contrast to your milk and cereal creations.

Berry Compote: Elevate your dessert experience with a luscious Berry Compote. The tartness of mixed berries simmered with a hint of lemon zest and vanilla will cut through the richness of your brownies and blondies.

Herbed Quinoa Salad: For a refreshing and light side, serve an Herbed Quinoa Salad. The nutty quinoa mixed with fresh herbs, cucumbers, and a zesty lemon vinaigrette will provide a perfect palate cleanser between bites of your decadent dessert.

Similar Dessert Recipes to Try If You Love Brownies and Blondies

Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Brownies: Imagine the delightful combination of chocolate chip cookies and brownies in one bite! These brownies are layered with gooey cookie dough and baked to perfection. Perfect for those who can't decide between two classic desserts.

Peanut Butter Swirl Blondies: These blondies are taken to the next level with a rich peanut butter swirl. The creamy peanut butter adds a delightful contrast to the sweet, buttery blondie base. A must-try for peanut butter lovers!

S'mores Brownies: Bring the campfire to your kitchen with these s'mores inspired brownies. A graham cracker crust, rich chocolate brownie layer, and toasted marshmallows on top make for an irresistible treat.

Salted Caramel Blondies: Sweet and salty come together in these decadent salted caramel blondies. The blondie base is swirled with homemade caramel sauce and sprinkled with sea salt for a perfect balance of flavors.

Raspberry Cheesecake Brownies: These brownies feature a luscious raspberry cheesecake layer swirled into a rich, fudgy brownie base. The tartness of the raspberries complements the sweetness of the brownies, creating a harmonious blend of flavors.

Appetizers and Main Dishes to Serve with Milk and Cereal Brownies and Blondies

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Transform your next gathering with these delectable Stuffed Mushrooms. Imagine plump mushroom caps filled with a savory blend of cream cheese, garlic, and finely chopped herbs. The mixture is then topped with a sprinkle of breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese, creating a golden, crispy finish. These bite-sized delights are perfect for any occasion, offering a burst of flavor in every mouthful. Serve them warm, and watch them disappear in no time.

Caprese Skewers: Elevate your appetizer game with Caprese Skewers. These vibrant skewers feature alternating layers of cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella balls, and fragrant basil leaves. Drizzle with a touch of balsamic glaze and a sprinkle of sea salt for an added burst of flavor. The combination of juicy tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and aromatic basil makes for a refreshing and visually appealing starter. Perfect for summer gatherings or as a light appetizer before a main course.

Main Courses:

Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken: Elevate your dinner with a succulent chicken breast marinated in a zesty lemon herb mixture. The citrus notes combined with fresh herbs like rosemary and thyme create a symphony of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds. Grill to perfection, ensuring a juicy and tender bite every time. Pair with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh garden salad for a complete meal that’s both healthy and delicious.

Stuffed Bell Peppers: Transform your dinner table with vibrant bell peppers stuffed with a savory mixture of ground meat, rice, and aromatic spices. The peppers become tender and sweet as they bake, perfectly complementing the hearty filling. Top with melted cheese for an extra layer of indulgence. Serve with a side of garlic bread or a light cucumber salad to balance the richness of the dish.

Why trust this Milk and Cereal Brownies and Blondies Recipe:

This recipe combines the best of both worlds: blondies and brownies, creating a delightful treat that satisfies all cravings. With a rich, buttery base for the blondies and a decadent, chocolatey layer for the brownies, each bite is a perfect balance of flavors. The cream cheese and whipped cream topping adds a creamy texture, while the cereal provides a satisfying crunch. This recipe has been meticulously crafted and tested to ensure perfect results every time, making it a trustworthy choice for your next baking adventure.

Want to share your experience making Milk and Cereal Brownies and Blondies or discuss variations on this recipe? Join the conversation in the Baking and Desserts forum section!

FAQ:

How do I know when the blondies and brownies are done baking?

I usually check by inserting a toothpick into the center. If it comes out mostly clean with a few moist crumbs, they're good to go. The blondies should be golden brown and slightly crackly on top.

Can I use a different type of cereal for the topping?

Absolutely! Feel free to get creative with your favorite cereals. Just make sure they complement the flavors of the blondies and brownies.

Do I really need to refrigerate the blondies and brownies for 2 hours before serving?

Yes, refrigerating helps the whipped cream topping set properly and makes it easier to cut into neat pieces. Plus, it tastes even better chilled!

Can I make the whipped cream topping without gelatin?

You can, but the gelatin helps stabilize the whipped cream, making it firmer and longer-lasting. If you skip it, the topping might be a bit softer.

Can I use a homemade brownie mix instead of a boxed one?

Definitely! If you have a favorite homemade brownie recipe, go for it. Just make sure the batter fits into a 9x13-inch pan.