Cosmic Brownies

**Cosmic Brownies**

*A Nostalgic, Fudgy Treat with a Colorful Candy Crunch*

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### Introduction

Cosmic Brownies are a childhood favorite for many, thanks to their rich, fudgy texture, thick chocolate glaze, and signature rainbow candy-coated chips scattered on top. These brownies, originally popularized by Little Debbie, have taken on a nostalgic role for adults while remaining a sugary treasure for kids. Fortunately, making homemade Cosmic Brownies is not only possible but yields an even more delicious version—rich with deep chocolate flavor and no preservatives.

This recipe recreates the iconic treat from scratch, combining a dense brownie base with a smooth chocolate ganache and colorful candy toppings. Whether you're baking for a school party, a retro-themed dessert table, or simply indulging your inner child, this homemade version will transport you back to your lunchbox days.

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### Ingredients

#### For the Brownie Base:

* ¾ cup (1 ½ sticks) unsalted butter, melted

* 1 cup granulated sugar

* ½ cup packed light brown sugar

* 2 large eggs

* 1 large egg yolk

* 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

* ¾ cup all-purpose flour

* ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder (preferably Dutch-processed for richer flavor)

* 1 tablespoon cornstarch

* ¼ teaspoon salt

* ½ teaspoon baking powder

#### For the Ganache Topping:

* 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips or chopped chocolate

* ½ cup heavy cream

* 1 tablespoon unsalted butter (optional for added gloss)

#### For the Topping:

* ¼ cup rainbow candy-coated chocolate chips (or mini M\&Ms)

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### Instructions

#### Step 1: Prepare the Pan and Preheat the Oven

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

2. Line an 8x8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on two sides for easy removal. Lightly grease the parchment.

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#### Step 2: Make the Brownie Batter

1. **Melt the Butter:** In a large mixing bowl, pour the melted butter and whisk in the granulated sugar and brown sugar until smooth and combined.

2. **Add Eggs and Vanilla:** Add the eggs and egg yolk one at a time, whisking vigorously after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.

3. **Mix Dry Ingredients:** In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, cornstarch, salt, and baking powder.

4. **Combine Wet and Dry:** Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring with a rubber spatula or wooden spoon just until no streaks remain. Be careful not to overmix—the less you stir, the fudgier the brownies will be.

5. **Spread into Pan:** Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top.

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#### Step 3: Bake

1. Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the center is just set and a toothpick inserted into the middle comes out with a few moist crumbs (not wet batter).

2. Remove the pan from the oven and place it on a cooling rack. Let the brownies cool completely in the pan before adding the ganache.

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#### Step 4: Make the Ganache

1. **Heat Cream:** In a small saucepan over medium heat, bring the cream just to a simmer (don’t boil).

2. **Pour Over Chocolate:** Place the chocolate chips in a heatproof bowl. Pour the hot cream over the chocolate and let it sit for 1–2 minutes to melt.

3. **Stir Until Smooth:** Add butter if using, then stir the mixture gently until smooth and glossy.

4. **Cool Slightly:** Let the ganache cool for 5–10 minutes, just enough to thicken slightly but still be pourable.

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#### Step 5: Assemble and Chill

1. Pour the ganache over the cooled brownie layer and use an offset spatula to spread it evenly to the edges.

2. Sprinkle the rainbow candy-coated chips evenly over the ganache.

3. Place the pan in the refrigerator and chill for at least 1–2 hours, or until the ganache is set and sliceable.

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### Cutting and Serving

To achieve clean, professional-looking cuts:

* Remove the brownies using the parchment overhang.

* Use a large, sharp knife dipped in hot water and wiped clean between each slice.

* Cut into 9 or 16 squares, depending on your desired portion size.

These brownies are best served slightly chilled or at room temperature.

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### Tips and Variations

* **For Extra Fudgy Texture:** Underbake slightly and chill for a firmer bite.

* **Make it Gluten-Free:** Substitute the flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend.

* **Dairy-Free Version:** Use plant-based butter, dairy-free chocolate, and coconut cream for the ganache.

* **Add a Flavor Twist:** Stir in a dash of espresso powder or a pinch of cinnamon for a sophisticated edge.

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### Storage

* Store the brownies in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.

* For longer storage, wrap individual slices in plastic and freeze for up to 2 months.

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### Final Thoughts

These **Cosmic Brownies** are more than just a treat—they’re a trip down memory lane with a homemade twist. Deeply chocolatey, irresistibly fudgy, and topped with smooth ganache and colorful candies, they’re bound to spark joy in both kids and adults alike. Whether you serve them at a party or savor them quietly with a glass of milk, these brownies promise pure chocolate satisfaction with a sprinkle of nostalgia.

Would you like a printable version or suggestions for packaging them as gifts?