Cosmic Brownies

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Thick, fudgy, and unapologetically chocolatey, Cosmic Brownies are the ultimate nostalgic treat that takes you right back to childhood lunchboxes and after-school snacks. Their dense brownie base, topped with a luscious layer of glossy chocolate ganache and a galaxy of rainbow candy-coated chips, makes them both eye-catching and irresistibly delicious. Every bite delivers a rich, chewy texture that satisfies any sweet tooth.

Perfect for parties, bake sales, or just a fun weekend baking project, these brownies are as much fun to make as they are to eat. Whether you’re recreating a childhood favorite or introducing this cosmic classic to a new generation, these brownies are bound to be a hit. Plus, making them from scratch means you get all the flavor and none of the preservatives.

Why You’ll Love This Cosmic Brownies Recipe

• They’re a throwback to classic 90s snack vibes with better flavor.
• Super fudgy, moist interior with a smooth ganache topping.
• Fun and festive thanks to colorful candy sprinkles.
• Easy to bake with simple ingredients.
• Great make-ahead dessert for parties or school lunches.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

To prepare Cosmic Brownies, you’ll want to gather a few essential tools:

• 8×8 or 9×9 Baking Pan: Ensures even baking and the perfect thickness.
• Parchment Paper: Helps lift out the brownies cleanly.
• Mixing Bowls: Needed for both the brownie batter and ganache.
• Electric Hand Mixer or Whisk: To achieve a smooth batter.
• Double Boiler or Microwave-Safe Bowl: For melting the chocolate safely for ganache.
• Offset Spatula: Crucial for spreading the ganache smoothly.

Each of these tools contributes to a professional, polished result without any hassle.

Preparation Tips

Let your melted butter cool slightly before mixing to prevent scrambling your eggs. For a richer flavor, use Dutch-processed cocoa powder. Don’t overbake—the center should still be slightly soft for that fudgy texture. Once baked, allow the brownies to cool completely before adding the ganache. After spreading the ganache, chill the brownies briefly so the topping sets perfectly before slicing. Lastly, use a hot knife to get clean, sharp brownie edges, just like the store-bought kind.

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Ingredients for This Cosmic Brownies Recipe

For the Brownie Base:

• 3/4 cup (1 1/2 sticks) unsalted butter, melted
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup light brown sugar, packed
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
• 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder (Dutch-processed preferred)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 2/3 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch (for extra fudginess)
• 1/4 teaspoon baking powder

For the Ganache Topping:

• 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• Pinch of salt

For Decoration:

• Rainbow candy-coated mini chips or sprinkles (to recreate that classic cosmic look)

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Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Line an 8×8 or 9×9 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang on the sides to lift the brownies out easily after baking. Lightly spray with non-stick baking spray.

Step 2: Make the Brownie Batter

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the melted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until smooth and glossy. Add the eggs and vanilla extract, then whisk vigorously until the mixture becomes pale and creamy. This step helps create that signature chewy texture.

Step 3: Add Dry Ingredients

Sift in the cocoa powder, flour, cornstarch, salt, and baking powder. Fold gently with a spatula or wooden spoon just until combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the brownies dense and fudgy.

Step 4: Bake the Brownies

Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and smooth out the top evenly. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs (not wet batter). Let the brownies cool completely in the pan before topping.

Step 5: Prepare the Ganache

While the brownies cool, heat the heavy cream in a small saucepan or microwave until it just begins to simmer. Pour over the chocolate chips in a bowl and let sit for 2-3 minutes. Stir until silky smooth and glossy. Add a pinch of salt to enhance flavor.

Step 6: Assemble the Cosmic Brownies

Once the brownies are completely cool, pour the ganache over the top and spread it evenly using an offset spatula. Immediately sprinkle the rainbow candy-coated chips over the ganache before it sets.

Step 7: Chill and Slice

Refrigerate the brownies for at least 1 hour or until the ganache is firm. Use the parchment overhang to lift the entire slab from the pan. Slice into even rectangles using a hot knife for clean, professional-looking edges.

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Notes

For best results, always use high-quality cocoa powder and chocolate chips. This makes a noticeable difference in richness and depth of flavor. The ganache topping can be adjusted to your preferred thickness—if you like a thinner topping, reduce the cream slightly. These brownies are quite rich, so smaller portions go a long way. If you’re baking for a crowd, you can double the recipe and use a 9×13 inch pan.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Overbaking: Pull the brownies out as soon as a toothpick comes out with moist crumbs. Overbaking will result in dry, cakey texture instead of fudgy.
• Skipping the chilling step: Letting the ganache set in the fridge ensures neat slicing and prevents mess.
• Mixing too vigorously after flour is added: Overmixing creates air and gluten, which leads to cakey rather than chewy brownies.
• Not using parchment paper: This makes it difficult to remove the brownies cleanly and increases chances of breakage.
• Adding the ganache before the brownies cool: Heat will melt the ganache, leading to a runny mess.

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Storage Instructions

Store Cosmic Brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to 1 week. If refrigerated, let them sit at room temp for about 10–15 minutes before serving to soften the ganache. For longer storage, freeze them (wrapped individually) for up to 2 months—just thaw overnight in the fridge or a few hours at room temperature.

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Estimated Nutrition (per brownie, based on 12 servings)

• Calories: 290
• Total Fat: 17g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6g
• Cholesterol: 55mg
• Sodium: 95mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 34g
• Dietary Fiber: 2g
• Sugars: 24g
• Protein: 3g

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Frequently Asked Questions

How do I get the ganache perfectly smooth?

Use hot (not boiling) cream and let it sit over the chocolate chips for a few minutes before stirring. Stir gently until glossy.

Can I use milk chocolate instead of semi-sweet?

Yes, but it will result in a much sweeter brownie. Consider reducing sugar in the batter if you do.

Can I make these gluten-free?

Absolutely! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.

Are Cosmic Brownies freezer-friendly?

Yes, once cooled and set, wrap them in parchment and freeze in an airtight container. Thaw before serving.

How do I prevent the ganache from cracking when slicing?

Use a warm knife (run it under hot water and dry it) to cut through smoothly.

Why add cornstarch to the batter?

It adds a bit of softness and chewiness, enhancing the fudgy texture without making it cakey.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes! Use a 9×13 inch pan and increase baking time by 5–10 minutes. Check for doneness with a toothpick.

What are some topping alternatives?

Try mini M&Ms, crushed Oreos, chopped nuts, or colored sprinkles if you can’t find rainbow chips.

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Conclusion

Cosmic Brownies are more than just a treat—they’re a celebration of rich chocolate flavor and colorful fun in every bite. Whether you’re reliving childhood memories or making new ones, this homemade version delivers everything you love with even better taste and texture. Simple to make, fun to decorate, and always a crowd-pleaser—this recipe deserves a permanent spot in your baking rotation.

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