Whip up fudgy cosmic brownies—rich, chocolatey, and topped with colorful candy crunch. A nostalgic, homemade treat perfect for kids and parties.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Ultra-fudgy texture with a glossy ganache finish
- Made entirely from scratch with simple pantry staples
- Just the right amount of sweetness and chew
- Fun and festive thanks to the colorful candy topping
- Perfect for parties, lunchboxes, or late-night cravings
- Easy to make and customize
- Freezer-friendly and great for batch baking
- A childhood favorite turned into an elevated treat
- No mixer required — just one bowl
- Guaranteed to satisfy any chocolate craving
Ingredients
For the brownies:
- 10 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
For the ganache topping:
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 1/3 cups semisweet chocolate chips
- Rainbow candy-coated chips or sprinkles (for topping)
Directions
- Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal.
- In a large bowl, whisk together melted butter and sugar until glossy and smooth.
- Add the eggs and vanilla, whisking until the mixture is thick and well combined.
- Sift in cocoa powder, flour, salt, and cornstarch. Stir gently just until no streaks remain — avoid overmixing.
- Spread the batter evenly into the prepared pan.
- Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with just a few moist crumbs. Cool completely.
- To make the ganache, heat heavy cream in a small saucepan until just simmering. Pour over the chocolate chips in a bowl. Let sit 2 minutes, then stir until smooth and glossy.
- Pour ganache over the cooled brownies and smooth the top with a spatula.
- Sprinkle rainbow chips evenly across the ganache and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to set.
- Once firm, lift out of the pan and slice into squares.
Servings And Timing
- Servings: 9 brownies
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Chill Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 1 hour 40 minutes
- Calories per serving: 330 kcal
Variations
- Extra Chocolatey: Add chocolate chunks to the brownie batter
- Nutty Crunch: Stir in chopped walnuts or pecans
- Frosting-Free: Skip the ganache and just enjoy the fudgy base
- Gluten-Free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend
- Mint Twist: Add a few drops of peppermint extract to the ganache
Storage/Reheating
Storage:
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days.
Freezing:
Wrap individually and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature or in the fridge.
Reheating:
For a warm treat, microwave a brownie for 10–15 seconds, but note the ganache may soften.
FAQs
Can I Use Milk Chocolate Instead Of Semisweet?
Yes, but it will be sweeter. You may want to reduce the sugar slightly in the brownie base.
Why Add Cornstarch To Brownies?
Cornstarch helps create that chewy, dense texture — a key feature of cosmic-style brownies.
Do I Have To Use Rainbow Chips?
Nope! Use sprinkles, mini M&Ms, or even crushed candy bars.
How Do I Know When Brownies Are Done?
They’re ready when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.
Can I Use A Different Pan Size?
Yes, but baking times will vary. For thinner brownies, use a 9×9 pan and reduce bake time slightly.
Can I Make The Ganache Ahead?
Yes, prepare and refrigerate. Warm slightly before spreading for a smooth consistency.
How Do I Slice The Brownies Neatly?
Chill thoroughly, use a sharp knife, and wipe the blade between cuts for clean edges.
Are These Brownies Very Sweet?
They are rich and chocolatey, balanced by the ganache. Using dark chocolate chips can reduce sweetness.
Can I Add Espresso Powder?
Yes! A small pinch intensifies the chocolate flavor without adding coffee taste.
Can These Be Made Vegan?
Yes, with plant-based butter, egg replacers, and dairy-free cream and chocolate alternatives.
Conclusion
Fudgy Cosmic Brownies are the perfect blend of nostalgia and indulgence. With their rich chocolate base, smooth ganache, and colorful topping, they’re as fun to look at as they are to eat. Whether you’re baking for a party, a holiday, or just because, these brownies promise to deliver childhood joy in every bite — with a homemade twist that makes them even better.
More Chocolatey & Nostalgic Desserts
If you loved these Fudgy Cosmic Brownies, you’ll enjoy more indulgent and playful recipes from our kitchen. For a layered showstopper, try our Caramel Brownie Cheesecake with rich caramel swirls. If you want a simpler but just as decadent option, the Caramel Brownie Pie never disappoints. For candy-bar lovers, our Milky Way Caramel Cheesecake Brownies bring gooey chocolate bliss. Kids and party guests will also love the colorful Berrylicious Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake. And if you’re craving something smooth and no-bake, the No-Bake Chocolate Espresso Cheesecake is pure indulgence without turning on the oven.
Fudgy Cosmic Brownies
- Total Time: 1 hour 40 minutes (including chill time)
- Yield: 9 brownies 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Whip up fudgy cosmic brownies—rich, chocolatey, and topped with colorful candy crunch. A nostalgic, homemade treat perfect for kids and parties.
Ingredients
- 10 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 1/3 cups semisweet chocolate chips
- Rainbow candy-coated chips or sprinkles (for topping)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal.
- In a large bowl, whisk together melted butter and sugar until glossy and smooth.
- Add the eggs and vanilla, whisking until the mixture is thick and well combined.
- Sift in cocoa powder, flour, salt, and cornstarch. Stir gently just until no streaks remain — avoid overmixing.
- Spread the batter evenly into the prepared pan.
- Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with just a few moist crumbs. Cool completely.
- To make the ganache, heat heavy cream in a small saucepan until just simmering. Pour over the chocolate chips in a bowl. Let sit 2 minutes, then stir until smooth and glossy.
- Pour ganache over the cooled brownies and smooth the top with a spatula.
- Sprinkle rainbow chips evenly across the ganache and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to set.
- Once firm, lift out of the pan and slice into squares.
Notes
- Do not overbake to maintain fudgy texture.
- Use high-quality chocolate for the ganache for best flavor.
- Store brownies in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
- Bring to room temperature before serving for best taste and texture.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 brownie
- Calories: 330 kcal
- Sugar: 27 g
- Sodium: 85 mg
- Fat: 21 g
- Saturated Fat: 13 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 35 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 4 g
- Cholesterol: 65 mg