Cosmic Brownies Recipe

This homemade copycat Cosmic Brownies recipe captures everything you loved about the original: the dense, fudgy brownie base, the smooth chocolate ganache topping, and of course, those signature rainbow candy bits. But with high-quality ingredients and no preservatives, these homemade versions might just become your new favorite indulgence!

What Makes a Cosmic Brownie, Well, Cosmic?

Before diving into our recipe, let’s break down what makes these treats so special. A true Cosmic Brownies consists of three essential elements:

1. A dense, chewy brownie base (never cakey!)
2. A thick, smooth chocolate ganache frosting that sets perfectly
3. Those iconic rainbow candy-coated chocolate chips scattered across the top

The combination creates a textural masterpiece that’s impossible to resist. And while the store-bought version certainly has its charm, our homemade version elevates each component to create something truly stellar.

Cosmic Brownies Recipe Overview

Why Homemade Cosmic Brownies Win Every Time

Sure, grabbing a box from the store is convenient, but making these treats at home comes with serious advantages:

• Better ingredients: Real butter, high-quality chocolate, and fresh eggs make a noticeable difference in flavor
• Richer taste: Without the need for preservatives, the chocolate flavor really shines
• Perfect texture: You control the fudginess factor
• Bragging rights: There’s something magical about telling people “I made these from scratch!”
• Nostalgic fun: Recreating childhood favorites is both delicious and heartwarming

Ingredient Spotlight: The Secret to Cosmic Success

The Fudgy Brownie Base

The foundation of a perfect Cosmic Brownie isn’t just any brownie—it’s specifically a dense, fudgy one. Here’s why our ingredient choices matter:

• Melted butter (not creamed) creates that dense, moist texture
• Dutch-process cocoa powder delivers that deep, intense chocolate color and flavor
• Brown sugar adds moisture and a subtle depth
• Minimal flour keeps the brownies from becoming cakey
• Just enough eggs to bind without making them too light

The Glossy Ganache Topping

The topping on Cosmic Brownies isn’t a typical frosting—it’s closer to a soft-set ganache that firms up just enough to hold the candies. Our version uses:

• High-quality semisweet chocolate chips for the perfect balance of sweetness
• Heavy cream to create that silky-smooth texture
• A touch of light corn syrup for the signature gloss and pliability
• Butter to help the ganache set properly without becoming too firm

The Rainbow Candies: The Crown Jewels

These colorful bits are what make Cosmic Brownies instantly recognizable! You have options:

• Rainbow chip baking bits (sometimes called “rainbow morsels” or “rainbow baking chips”)
• Mini M&Ms work wonderfully as a readily available substitute
• Rainbow sprinkles or nonpareils can work in a pinch (though they’ll give a slightly different look and crunch)

Cosmic Brownies Recipe Ingredients

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Key Ingredients

• For the Fudgy Brownie Base:

• 1 cup (226g) unsalted butter

• 2 cups (400g) granulated sugar

• ⅓ cup (67g) light brown sugar, packed

• 4 large eggs, at room temperature

• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract

• 1 cup (120g) all-purpose flour

• 1 cup (84g) Dutch-process cocoa powder

• 1 teaspoon salt

• ¼ teaspoon baking powder

• For the Chocolate Ganache Topping:

• 1 ½ cups (255g) semisweet chocolate chips

• ½ cup (120ml) heavy cream

• 2 tablespoons (28g) unsalted butter

• 1 tablespoon light corn syrup

• ¼ teaspoon salt

• For the Topping:

• ⅓ cup rainbow chip baking bits or mini M&Ms

Tools You Will Need

• Large mixing bowl
• baking pan
• Whisk
• Silicone spatula
• Parchment paper or silicone baking mats
• Medium saucepan
• Wire cooling rack

How To Make Copycat Cosmic Brownies

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Instructions

• Making the Brownie Base:
  1– Prep your workspace: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line your 9×13 inch pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang on the sides for easy removal later.
  2- Melt the butter: In a medium saucepan over low heat, melt the butter completely. Turn off the heat.
  3- Mix the wet ingredients: Add both sugars to the melted butter and whisk until combined. Let the mixture cool slightly (about 5 minutes), then whisk in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract.
  4- Combine dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, salt, and baking powder.
  5- Create the batter: Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until just combined. Do not overmix! This is crucial for achieving that signature fudgy texture.
  6- Bake: Pour the batter into your prepared pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs (not wet batter, but not completely clean either).
  7- Cool completely: Place the pan on a wire rack and allow the brownies to cool COMPLETELY before frosting. This may take 1-2 hours. Patience is key!
• Creating the Ganache Topping:
  1– Prep the chocolate: Place the chocolate chips in a medium heat-proof bowl.
  2- Heat the cream mixture: In a small saucepan, combine the heavy cream, butter, corn syrup, and salt. Heat over medium-low until it just begins to simmer (small bubbles appear around the edges).
  3- Make the ganache: Pour the hot cream mixture over the chocolate chips. Let it sit undisturbed for 3 minutes to allow the chocolate to melt, then whisk until completely smooth and glossy.
  4- Cool slightly: Allow the ganache to cool at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes, until it’s thickened slightly but still pourable and spreadable.
• Assembly:
  1– Frost the brownies: Pour the ganache over the completely cooled brownies, using an offset spatula to spread it evenly to the edges.
  2- Add the rainbow bits: While the ganache is still wet, immediately sprinkle the rainbow chips evenly over the top.
  3- Set the ganache: Allow the ganache to set at room temperature for about 1 hour, or speed up the process by refrigerating for 30 minutes.
  4- Slice and serve: For clean cuts, use a large sharp knife run under hot water and wiped dry between slices. Cut into 15-20 squares, depending on your preferred size.

Tips for Cosmic Brownie Perfection

• For maximum fudginess: Be careful not to overbake! When in doubt, it’s better to slightly underbake than overbake these brownies.
• Smooth ganache secrets: Don’t rush the melting process. Let the hot cream do its work before whisking, and never microwave the chocolate directly as it can seize.
• Can’t find rainbow chips? Check the baking aisle of well-stocked grocery stores, craft stores with baking sections, or online retailers. Mini M&Ms make an excellent substitute!
• Perfect slices: For photo-worthy squares, refrigerate the brownies for 30 minutes before cutting, then use a hot knife (run under hot water and dried between cuts).
• Pan size matters: If you use a smaller pan, the brownies will be thicker and require longer baking time. A larger pan will result in thinner brownies that bake faster.

How To Store this Cosmic Brownies

These copycat Cosmic Brownies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for 3-4 days, though the texture is best within the first 2 days.

For longer storage, refrigerate for up to a week, though the brownies may become slightly firmer when chilled. You can always let them come to room temperature before serving for that perfect fudgy bite.

Ready To Bake ??

There’s something truly special about recreating a childhood favorite from scratch. Not only do these homemade Cosmic Brownies capture the nostalgia of the original Little Debbie treat, but they elevate it with quality ingredients and that unmistakable homemade touch.

Whether you’re making these for a school bake sale, a family dessert, or just to satisfy your own cosmic cravings, these brownies are sure to bring a smile to anyone lucky enough to try them.

Have you tried making these copycat Cosmic Brownies? Let me know in the comments how they turned out, or tag me in your cosmic creations on social media!

FAQs About Cosmic Brownies Recipe

1. What are Cosmic Brownies?

Answer: Cosmic Brownies are rich, fudgy chocolate brownies topped with colorful candy-coated chocolate pieces, often resembling the ones found in pre-packaged snacks. They’re known for their chewy texture and sweet, indulgent flavor.

2. How do I make homemade Cosmic Brownies?

Answer: To make homemade Cosmic Brownies, you need basic ingredients like flour, cocoa powder, sugar, butter, eggs, and chocolate chips. After preparing the brownie batter, bake it, then top with colorful candy-coated chocolate pieces before it cools.

3. Can I use milk chocolate chips instead of semi-sweet for Cosmic Brownies?

Answer: Yes, you can use milk chocolate chips instead of semi-sweet if you prefer a sweeter, creamier taste. However, semi-sweet chocolate chips provide a more balanced chocolate flavor, which works well with the sweetness of the candies.

4. Do I need to chill the batter before baking?

Answer: No, there’s no need to chill the batter. Just mix the ingredients together and pour the batter into the baking pan. Then bake it according to the recipe instructions.

5. Can I make Cosmic Brownies ahead of time?

Answer: Yes, you can make Cosmic Brownies a day or two ahead of time. Store them in an airtight container to keep them fresh, and add the candy toppings just before serving if you prefer them to stay vibrant and crunchy.

6. How do I make my Cosmic Brownies extra fudgy?

Answer: To make your Cosmic Brownies extra fudgy, use more butter and less flour. Additionally, adding an extra egg or some extra chocolate chips can also help achieve a more moist and dense texture.

7. Can I make Cosmic Brownies without eggs?

Answer: Yes, you can make eggless Cosmic Brownies by using egg substitutes like flax eggs, applesauce, or yogurt. However, the texture might vary slightly compared to using eggs.

8. What toppings can I use besides candy-coated chocolate pieces?

Answer: Besides the classic candy-coated chocolate pieces, you can try adding crushed nuts, chocolate sprinkles, mini marshmallows, or even a drizzle of caramel or chocolate sauce for a fun twist on the traditional Cosmic Brownie.

9. How do I know when my Cosmic Brownies are done?

Answer: To check if your Cosmic Brownies are done, insert a toothpick into the center of the brownies. If it comes out with a few moist crumbs (not wet batter), they’re ready to come out of the oven.

10. Can I freeze Cosmic Brownies?

Answer: Yes, you can freeze Cosmic Brownies! Wrap them individually in plastic wrap and store in an airtight container or freezer bag. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 months. Just thaw at room temperature before serving.