Cosmic Brownies

This copycat cosmic brownies recipe is so full of whimsy and childhood nostalgia! The familiar fudgy brownies are topped with a rich chocolate ganache which might remind you of my ultimate frosted brownies if you’ve ever had them. The cosmic brownies have bright and cheery colorful candy-coated chocolate sprinkles on top, which is what sets them apart! 

Homemade cosmic brownies taste even better than the ones that come individually wrapped in a box. You know, the kind we used to love having as a treat in our lunch box? They were the best back then, but as adults, we now know that making them from scratch is even better! 

We get to combine the memories and the wholesome ingredients in a way that is perfect for kids and the kid in all of us! 

1. The enhanced flavors. Homemade cosmic brownies are made with chocolate chips and cocoa powder so you can taste the real chocolaty flavors rather than all the extra preservatives found in the store-bought packages.   
2. Easy to make. With just 20 minutes of prep time and 35 minutes in the oven, it’s the waiting for them to cool that’s the hardest part! 
3. A simple list of ingredients. There’s nothing in this recipe that you probably don’t already have in your pantry. The only thing you may want to run out and get is the rainbow chips.
4. Perfect for all occasions. Brownie recipes like cosmic brownies are so versatile. Birthday parties, showers, Valentine’s day, or no matter the holiday, no one can resist that moist crumb and chewy texture!

• Cocoa powder: Use unsweetened cocoa powder because we are adding in the granulated sugar. This way we can control the amount of sweetness. 
• Unsalted butter: The same applies here. Use unsalted butter but add salt as an additional ingredient to better control the flavor.
• Heavy cream: Used in the ganache, the higher fat content adds the richness that this type of chocolate frosting needs.  
• Rainbow chips: These are chocolate chips coated in candy and they’re what make the Little Debbie cosmic brownies so recognizable. I use the Wilton brand. 

• Butter vs. oil. You can technically replace butter with oil if you prefer, however the way to softer moist crumbs is definitely butter. It also will give you that thin layer of crust that forms on top of traditional homemade brownies that won’t be the same with oil.
• No rainbow chips? Use any sprinkles you prefer. Mini M&M candies would be great too.
• Use an extra egg yolk. We’re using 4 whole eggs, but adding extra yolk can help with moisture making these brownies extra fudgy!

1. Melt butter and chocolate chips. Simmer over medium-low heat in a medium saucepan until fully melted. 
2. Add remaining batter ingredients. Remove the pan from the heat and stir in the sugar and vanilla. Add the eggs one at a time, and whisk well after each one. Mix in the cocoa powder, salt, and flour until combined into a smooth batter. 
3. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 35-40 minutes. Remove from the oven and let it cool completely.
4. Make the ganache. Near the end of the cooling period start making the ganache by bringing heavy cream to a boil in a small saucepan and then pouring it over a small bowl of chocolate chips. Let it sit for a few minutes and then stir until the chocolate chips have melted. 
5. Pour ganache over cooled brownies and add sprinkles. Use a spatula to spread it into an even layer. Sprinkle the rainbow chips overtop and allow them to set in the fridge until the top has hardened. 
6. Slice the brownies. This makes 24 bars, less if you want them bigger! Serve chilled or at room temperature. Wash one or two cosmic brownies down with a cold glass of milk! 

• Measure dry ingredients accurately. We talk a lot about the moisture in these treats, but to get the proper texture, it’s important to measure the dry ingredients on a kitchen scale. You can also use the spoon and level method, just make sure you don’t pack in too much flour!
• Allow cosmic brownies to cool. Don’t add the ganache on too early while the brownies are still warm, otherwise, it will just melt and won’t set properly. 
• Line your baking dish! Use parchment paper or spray it with cooking spray. The nonstick surface will help keep the brownies intact when you lift them out of the pan.