Name: Cosmic Brownies Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 1 h 35 min
Yield: 12
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: For Brownies:; 6 tbsp unsalted butter; 1 cup granulated sugar; 2 eggs; 1½ tsp vanilla extract; ½ cup all purpose flour; ½ cup cocoa powder; ¼ tsp salt; 2 tbsp milk; Cooking spray; For Frosting:; 4 oz semisweet chocolate; 4 oz milk chocolate; ½ cup heavy cream; 1 tbsp butter; ½ cup rainbow chip sprinkles

These cosmic brownies are a delightful throwback to childhood, featuring a rich, fudgy base topped with a smooth chocolate frosting and colorful rainbow chip sprinkles. Perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth or impressing guests at your next gathering.

Cosmic Brownies Recipe, chewy and moist fudge brownies with chocoalte ganache frosting and rainbow chip sprinkles

Photos of Cosmic Brownies Recipe

While most of the ingredients for this recipe are commonly found in your pantry or fridge, you might need to make a special trip to the supermarket for rainbow chip sprinkles. This particular topping adds a fun and nostalgic touch to the brownies, making them visually appealing and delightfully crunchy.

Ingredients For Cosmic Brownies Recipe

unsalted butter: Adds richness and moisture to the brownies and frosting.

granulated sugar: Sweetens the brownies and aids in creating a fudgy texture.

eggs: Provides structure and helps bind the ingredients together.

vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor of the brownies.

all purpose flour: Serves as the base, giving structure to the brownies.

cocoa powder: Gives the brownies their deep chocolate flavor.

salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the chocolate flavor.

milk: Adds moisture and helps combine the ingredients smoothly.

cooking spray: Prevents the brownies from sticking to the pan.

semisweet chocolate: Used in the frosting for a rich chocolatey layer.

milk chocolate: Adds a creamy texture to the frosting.

heavy cream: Provides a smooth and creamy base for the frosting.

rainbow chip sprinkles: Adds a fun and colorful touch to the brownies.

One reader, Dennet Mccombs says:

These cosmic brownies are absolutely divine! The rich, fudgy texture combined with the smooth chocolate frosting and colorful sprinkles make them a hit at any gathering. Easy to follow recipe and the results are out of this world!

Dennet Mccombs

Techniques Required

How to line a pan with parchment paper: Cut a piece of parchment paper to fit the bottom of the pan, leaving an overhang on both sides for easy removal of the brownies. How to melt butter in the microwave: Place the butter in a microwave-safe bowl and heat in 30-second increments, stirring in between until fully melted. How to beat a mixture until pale yellow and thick: Use an electric mixer on medium speed to beat the mixture until it becomes a pale yellow color and has a thick consistency, which usually takes 2 to 3 minutes. How to check for doneness with a toothpick: Insert a toothpick into the center of the brownies; if it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs attached, the brownies are done. How to make a ganache: Heat the heavy cream until very hot but not boiling, then pour it over chopped chocolate. Let it sit for a minute before stirring until smooth, then add butter and stir until melted. How to chill brownies: Place the brownies in the refrigerator for 1 to 2 hours until the chocolate topping is set. How to cut brownies using parchment paper: Use the overhang of the parchment paper to lift the brownies out of the pan, then cut into squares.

It’s been a while since I had some of Little Debbie’s famous cosmic brownies. That’s why I decided to try and recreate these Little Debbie brownies for my family. I think I did a great job in capturing its decadent flavor. These homemade cosmic brownies promise a lot of sweet and sugary goodness. They’re not like your typical brownie recipes. These are chewy fudge brownies with rich and moist chocolate frosting and rainbow candy toppings.

It turns out that these famous chocolate fudge brownies were simple to make. All the ingredients I used are supermarket-friendly so you don’t have to worry about any missing ingredients. For this cosmic brownie recipe, I loved making the soft and chewy brownie base. It’s also the best part of this delicious homemade brownie. The key to getting that ultra rich and fudgy brownie is to not overmix the batter. Overmixing it can result in very dense brownies that are too firm to eat. It’s best to just mix it until the flour is properly incorporated.

After making the homemade brownie batter, the chocolate ganache frosting is next. It’s even easier than the base. This delicious chocolate ganache gives the brownies that extra moist and rich appearance. It’s made from combining milk chocolate and dark chocolate chips for a rich and not so overly sweet chocolate frosting.

When this melted chocolate frosting is poured evenly onto the batter, add in the rainbow chip sprinkles. This is the highlight of the whole dessert, so don’t forget about it! Feel free to use M&Ms as a topping alternative for that added crunch. The last step is chilling these beautiful fudge brownies for at least an hour. No one wants a soupy and messy brownie! Enjoy these colorful, chocolate-frosted cosmic brownies with the family.

How To Make Cosmic Brownies

These colorful cosmic brownies will be a sure treat for kids and adults alike! Whip up a batch of these fudgy chocolate brownies in no time.

Preparation: 15 minutes

Cooking: 20 minutes

Chill Time: 1 hour

Total: 1 hour 35 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

For Brownies:

6tbspunsalted butter
1cupgranulated sugar
2eggs
1½tspvanilla extract
½cupall purpose flour
½cupunsweetened cocoa powder
¼tspsalt
2tbspmilk
cooking spray

For Chocolate Ganache Frosting:

4ozdark chocolate chips
4ozmilk chocolate,chopped
½cupheavy cream
1tbspbutter,softened
½cuprainbow chip sprinkles,topping

Instructions

Brownies:

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F.
Line a 9 x 9-inch square pan with a piece of parchment paper, leaving an overhang on both sides. Coat the pan with cooking spray.
Place the butter in a large microwave safe bowl, then microwave in 30 second increments until melted.
Add the sugar to the melted butter, then whisk to combine.
Place the sugar and butter mixture in the bowl of a mixer, then beat on medium speed for 2 to 3 minutes.
Add the eggs and vanilla to the bowl; then beat for another 2 to 3 minutes until mixture is pale yellow and thick.
Add the flour, cocoa powder and salt.
Mix on low speed until the ingredients are just incorporated.
Stir in the milk, then mix until smooth.
Pour the batter into the prepared pan, then spread it into an even layer.
Bake for 20 to 25 minutes until a toothpick inserted into the center of the pan comes out clean or with just a few crumbs attached to it.
Let the brownies cool.

Chocolate Ganache Frosting:

Place the heavy cream in a medium bowl, then microwave in 20 second increments until cream is very hot but not boiling.
Add the chopped chocolates to the cream.
Let sit for 1 minute, then stir until a smooth chocolate mixture forms.
Stir in the butter until melted.
Pour the chocolate over the top of the brownies.
Use a spatula to spread the chocolate into an even layer, then add the sprinkles on top of the chocolate.
Chill the brownies until set, about 1 to 2 hours.
Use the parchment to lift the brownies out of the pan, then Cut into squares.
Serve, and enjoy!

Nutrition

Calories: 346.58kcal
Fat: 19.39g
Saturated Fat: 11.23g
Trans Fat: 0.28g
Monounsaturated Fat: 5.69g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 1.06g
Carbohydrates: 41.74g
Fiber: 2.82g
Sugar: 32.66g
Protein: 3.96g
Cholesterol: 60.76mg
Sodium: 75.54mg
Calcium: 45.74mg
Potassium: 186.81mg
Iron: 2.23mg
Vitamin A: 115.80µg
Vitamin C: 0.06mg

How to Save Time on Making Brownies

Melt butter efficiently: Use a microwave-safe bowl and melt butter in 30-second increments to save time.

Combine sugar and butter: Whisk sugar and butter directly in the microwave-safe bowl to reduce dishwashing.

Use a mixer wisely: Beat the sugar and butter mixture for 2-3 minutes, then add eggs and vanilla to save time on manual mixing.

Pre-measure dry ingredients: Measure flour, cocoa powder, and salt beforehand to streamline the process.

Microwave cream quickly: Heat heavy cream in the microwave in 20-second increments to speed up the frosting preparation.

Substitute Ingredients For Cosmic Brownies Recipe

unsalted butter - Substitute with coconut oil: Coconut oil provides a similar fat content and moisture, adding a subtle coconut flavor.
granulated sugar - Substitute with coconut sugar: Coconut sugar has a lower glycemic index and adds a slight caramel flavor.
eggs - Substitute with flax eggs: Mix 1 tbsp ground flaxseed with 2.5 tbsp water per egg. This is a great vegan alternative that helps bind the ingredients.
vanilla extract - Substitute with almond extract: Almond extract provides a different but complementary flavor profile.
all purpose flour - Substitute with almond flour: Almond flour is gluten-free and adds a nutty flavor, though it may alter the texture slightly.
cocoa powder - Substitute with carob powder: Carob powder is naturally sweet and caffeine-free, making it a good alternative for those avoiding caffeine.
salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt can provide a more complex flavor due to its mineral content.
milk - Substitute with almond milk: Almond milk is a dairy-free alternative that works well in baking.
cooking spray - Substitute with parchment paper: Parchment paper prevents sticking without adding extra fat.
semisweet chocolate - Substitute with dark chocolate: Dark chocolate has a higher cocoa content and less sugar, providing a richer flavor.
milk chocolate - Substitute with white chocolate: White chocolate offers a creamy, sweet alternative, though it lacks the cocoa solids.
heavy cream - Substitute with coconut cream: Coconut cream is a dairy-free option that provides similar richness and thickness.
butter - Substitute with ghee: Ghee is clarified butter that adds a nutty flavor and is lactose-free.
rainbow chip sprinkles - Substitute with mini chocolate chips: Mini chocolate chips provide a similar texture and chocolatey flavor without artificial colors.

Best Way to Present Your Brownies

Serve smaller portion sizes: Cut the brownies into elegant, bite-sized squares to create a refined presentation suitable for a high-end dining experience.
Use decoration: Garnish each brownie with a delicate sprinkle of rainbow chip sprinkles, ensuring an even and aesthetically pleasing distribution.
Plate with precision: Arrange the brownie squares neatly on a pristine white plate, allowing the vibrant colors of the sprinkles to stand out against the clean background.
Add a sauce drizzle: Create a complementary sauce using melted chocolate and heavy cream, then artistically drizzle it around the brownies on the plate for added visual appeal and flavor.
Incorporate texture: Add a small dollop of whipped cream or a quenelle of vanilla ice cream beside each brownie to provide a contrast in texture and temperature.
Use edible flowers: Place a few edible flowers, such as violets or pansies, around the brownies to enhance the visual presentation with a touch of elegance and color.
Highlight the layers: Cut one brownie in half to showcase the rich, fudgy interior and the smooth chocolate frosting, giving diners a visual preview of the indulgent treat.
Add a touch of gold: Lightly dust the brownies with edible gold leaf or gold dust to elevate the presentation and add a luxurious finish.
Serve on a unique platter: Present the brownies on a slate or marble platter to create a sophisticated and modern look that complements the dessert's rich flavors.
Include a tasting note: Provide a small card with tasting notes, describing the brownies's flavor profile and the ingredients used, to engage diners and enhance their appreciation of the dish.

Best Tools for This Recipe

Oven: Used to bake the brownies at the specified temperature of 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
9 x 9-inch square pan: The baking pan where the brownie batter will be poured and baked.
Parchment paper: Lined in the baking pan to prevent the brownies from sticking and to make it easier to lift them out.
Cooking spray: Used to coat the parchment paper and pan to ensure the brownies do not stick.
Microwave: Used to melt the butter and heat the heavy cream.
Large microwave-safe bowl: For melting the butter and mixing the initial ingredients.
Whisk: Used to combine the melted butter and sugar.
Mixer: An electric mixer is used to beat the butter and sugar mixture, and later to incorporate the eggs and vanilla.
Mixing bowl: Where the sugar and butter mixture is transferred for further mixing.
Spatula: Used to spread the brownie batter evenly in the pan and to spread the chocolate frosting.
Toothpick: Used to check if the brownies are done by inserting it into the center to see if it comes out clean or with a few crumbs.
Medium bowl: Used to heat the heavy cream and mix it with the chopped chocolates to make the frosting.
Knife: Used to chop the semisweet and milk chocolates.
Refrigerator: Used to chill the brownies until the frosting is set.
Cutting board: Used as a surface to chop the chocolates.
Measuring cups: Used to measure out the ingredients like flour, sugar, and cocoa powder.
Measuring spoons: Used to measure smaller quantities like vanilla extract and salt.

How To Store / Freeze Your Brownies

Storing Cosmic Brownies:
- Allow the brownies to cool completely before storing. This ensures the frosting sets properly and doesn't become messy.
- Once cooled, cut the brownies into squares and place them in an airtight container. If stacking, place a piece of parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.
- Store the container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This keeps the brownies soft and chewy.
- For longer storage, place the container in the refrigerator. This can extend their shelf life to about a week. However, note that refrigeration may make the brownies slightly firmer.
Freezing Cosmic Brownies:
- To freeze, first ensure the brownies are completely cooled and cut into squares.
- Wrap each brownie square individually in plastic wrap. This helps to maintain their freshness and prevents freezer burn.
- Place the wrapped brownies in a freezer-safe bag or airtight container. Label the container with the date to keep track of their storage time.
- Freeze the brownies for up to 3 months. This allows you to enjoy them at a later date without compromising on taste or texture.
- When ready to eat, thaw the brownies at room temperature for a few hours or overnight in the refrigerator. For a quicker option, microwave them for a few seconds to bring back their gooey texture.

How To Reheat Leftovers

Preheat your oven to 300 degrees F. This gentle heat will warm your cosmic brownies without drying them out.
Place the brownies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. This will prevent sticking and ensure even reheating.
Cover the brownies with aluminum foil. This step is crucial to keep the frosting from melting too quickly and to maintain the moisture in the brownies.
Bake for about 10-15 minutes. Check them halfway through to ensure they are warming evenly. The brownies should be warm and slightly gooey, but not overly melted.
If you prefer a quicker method, use a microwave. Place a brownie on a microwave-safe plate.
Microwave on medium power for 20-30 seconds. This will warm the brownie without making it too hot or causing the frosting to become runny.
For an extra touch, serve your reheated cosmic brownies with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. The contrast of warm brownie and cold ice cream is a delightful treat.
Enjoy your reheated cosmic brownies with a glass of cold milk or a cup of hot coffee. The rich flavors will be perfectly complemented by your beverage of choice.

Random Fact About This Recipe

A fun fact about this cosmic brownies recipe is that it mimics the popular Little Debbie Cosmic Brownies, which were first introduced in the 1990s. These brownies are known for their fudgy texture and colorful rainbow chip sprinkles, making them a nostalgic treat for many who grew up enjoying them.

Is This Recipe Economical for Home Cooking?

When evaluating the cost-effectiveness of this dessert recipe, the ingredients are relatively affordable. Basic pantry staples like flour, sugar, and cocoa powder are inexpensive. Specialty items like heavy cream and rainbow chip sprinkles might add a bit to the cost but are not overly pricey. Overall, this cosmic brownies recipe is quite budget-friendly. For a household of 4, the approximate cost is around $10-$12. Considering the yield and the delightful result, I would rate this recipe an 8 out of 10 for cost-effectiveness.

Healthy or Unhealthy?

This cosmic brownies recipe, while undeniably delicious, leans towards the unhealthy side. It is high in sugar and fat, with significant amounts of butter, heavy cream, and chocolate. The granulated sugar and chocolate contribute to a high calorie count, and the lack of whole grains or fiber means it offers little nutritional value. The heavy cream and butter add saturated fats, which can be detrimental to heart health if consumed in excess.

Replace half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour to add fiber.
Use a sugar substitute like stevia or erythritol to reduce the sugar content.
Swap out the butter in the brownies for unsweetened applesauce to cut down on fat.
Opt for dark chocolate with a high cocoa content instead of semisweet and milk chocolate to increase antioxidants and reduce sugar.
Use Greek yogurt instead of heavy cream in the frosting for a protein boost and lower fat content.
Reduce the amount of rainbow chip sprinkles or use a healthier alternative like chopped nuts or seeds for added nutrients.

Editor's Thoughts

This cosmic brownies recipe is a delightful blend of rich, fudgy brownies topped with a smooth, decadent chocolate frosting and colorful sprinkles. The use of both semisweet and milk chocolate in the frosting adds depth and complexity to the flavor. The instructions are clear and straightforward, making it accessible for home bakers. The addition of rainbow chip sprinkles not only adds a fun, whimsical touch but also a slight crunch that contrasts nicely with the soft texture of the brownies. Overall, this recipe is a fantastic choice for anyone looking to recreate a nostalgic treat with a homemade twist.

Enhance Your Cosmic Brownies Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Fruit Salad: Elevate your cosmic brownies experience with a vibrant fruit salad. Imagine a medley of berries, mango, and kiwi drizzled with a hint of honey and a squeeze of lime. The refreshing burst of fruits will perfectly balance the rich, chocolatey goodness of the brownies.

Vanilla Ice Cream: Pair your cosmic brownies with a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream. The cold, velvety texture of the ice cream contrasts beautifully with the dense, fudgy brownies, creating a delightful dessert experience that will leave your taste buds dancing.

Mint Chocolate Chip Milkshake: Take your cosmic brownies to the next level with a mint chocolate chip milkshake. The refreshing mint flavor and crunchy chocolate chips in the milkshake will complement the rich brownies, making for a truly indulgent treat.

Caramel Popcorn: Add a touch of sweet and salty to your cosmic brownies with a side of caramel popcorn. The crunchy popcorn coated in gooey caramel provides a delightful contrast to the soft, fudgy brownies, creating a symphony of textures and flavors.

Espresso: For a sophisticated twist, serve your cosmic brownies with a shot of espresso. The bold, intense flavor of the espresso will enhance the deep chocolate notes of the brownies, making for a perfect dessert pairing.

Other Alternative Recipes

Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars: Imagine the classic chocolate chip cookies but in a bar form! These delightful treats are chewy, gooey, and packed with chocolate chips. Perfect for a quick dessert fix or a sweet snack.

Peanut Butter Brownies: Combine the rich, fudgy goodness of brownies with the creamy, nutty flavor of peanut butter. These brownies are a match made in dessert heaven and will satisfy any sweet tooth.

S'mores Bars: Bring the campfire to your kitchen with these s'mores bars. Layers of graham cracker crust, gooey marshmallow, and melted chocolate make for an irresistible treat that’s sure to please.

Red Velvet Brownies: Take your brownie game up a notch with these red velvet brownies. They’re rich, velvety, and topped with a luscious cream cheese frosting. A perfect blend of flavors and textures.

Salted Caramel Brownies: Indulge in the ultimate sweet and salty combo with these salted caramel brownies. Fudgy brownies are swirled with homemade salted caramel sauce, creating a decadent dessert experience.

Suggested Appetizers and Main Courses

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Delight your guests with these Stuffed Mushrooms. Imagine tender mushroom caps filled with a savory mixture of cream cheese, garlic, and herbs. The mushrooms are baked to perfection, creating a golden, bubbly topping that contrasts beautifully with the earthy, juicy mushroom base. This appetizer is not only visually appealing but also bursts with flavor, making it a perfect start to any meal. Serve them warm, and watch them disappear in no time.

Bruschetta: Elevate your appetizer game with Bruschetta. This classic Italian starter features toasted baguette slices topped with a vibrant mix of diced tomatoes, fresh basil, garlic, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze. The crusty bread provides a delightful crunch, while the tomato mixture offers a burst of freshness and flavor. Perfect for any gathering, this appetizer is as easy to make as it is delicious. Serve it as a light, refreshing bite that will leave your guests craving more.

Main Courses:

Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken: Elevate your dinner with Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken. This dish features succulent chicken breasts marinated in a zesty blend of lemon juice, garlic, and fresh herbs. The marinade infuses the chicken with vibrant flavors, making each bite a burst of citrusy goodness. Grill the chicken to perfection, achieving a beautiful char on the outside while keeping the inside juicy and tender. Serve with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh green salad for a complete meal that’s both healthy and satisfying. Perfect for a summer barbecue or a cozy family dinner, this dish is sure to impress your guests.

Stuffed Bell Peppers: Delight your taste buds with Stuffed Bell Peppers, a colorful and nutritious main course. These vibrant bell peppers are filled with a savory mixture of ground beef, rice, and tomato sauce, seasoned with onions, garlic, and a blend of spices. Baked to perfection, the peppers become tender while the filling remains hearty and flavorful. Top with melted cheese for an extra layer of indulgence. This dish is not only visually appealing but also a great way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet. Serve with a side of crusty bread or a simple green salad for a well-rounded meal that’s sure to satisfy.

Why trust this Cosmic Brownies Recipe:

This cosmic brownies recipe is a tried-and-true method for achieving rich, fudgy brownies with a decadent chocolate frosting. The combination of semisweet and milk chocolate ensures a balanced sweetness, while the rainbow chip sprinkles add a fun, nostalgic touch. With clear, step-by-step instructions, even novice bakers can create these delightful treats. Trust in the quality ingredients and precise measurements to deliver a consistently delicious result every time.

Want to share your own recipes or discuss this cosmic brownies recipe further? Head over to the Recipe Sharing section of our forum and join the conversation!

FAQ:

How do I store leftover cosmic brownies?

I usually store leftover cosmic brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want them to last longer, you can keep them in the fridge for up to a week.

Can I use a different type of chocolate for the frosting?

Absolutely! You can experiment with different types of chocolate. Dark chocolate or white chocolate can be great alternatives, depending on your taste preferences.

Can I make these brownies gluten-free?

Yes, you can! Just substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure the blend you choose is a 1:1 substitute for regular flour.

Do I have to use rainbow chip sprinkles?

Nope, you can use any type of sprinkles you like or even skip them altogether. The rainbow chip sprinkles just give it that classic cosmic brownie look.

Can I freeze cosmic brownies?

Yes, you can freeze them. Just wrap each brownie individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll keep well for up to 3 months. When you're ready to eat them, just let them thaw at room temperature.