Cosmic Brownies

These homemade Cosmic Brownies are a rich, fudgy blast from the past—just like the nostalgic treats you remember, but way better. Dense, chewy chocolate brownies topped with a smooth chocolate ganache and sprinkled with rainbow candy-coated chips make for the ultimate indulgent dessert. With no preservatives and loads of real chocolate, these copycat brownies are a guaranteed hit.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Cosmic Brownies are a chocolate lover’s dream: soft, dense, and perfectly chewy. The thick chocolate ganache frosting takes them over the top, and the colorful candy-coated chips add the signature “cosmic” touch. They taste just like the store-bought version—but richer, fresher, and homemade. Plus, they store well and are easy to make in advance.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the brownies:
unsalted butter
granulated sugar
light brown sugar
unsweetened cocoa powder (sifted)
vanilla extract
large eggs + egg yolk
corn syrup
all-purpose flour
cornstarch
fine sea salt

For the frosting:
heavy cream
semisweet chocolate chips
rainbow candy-coated chocolate chips (or mini M&Ms, sprinkles, etc.)

Directions

1. Preheat and prep:
   Preheat your oven to 350°F. Line an 8×8-inch metal baking pan with parchment paper or foil and spray with cooking spray.

2. Make the brownie batter:
   In a large microwave-safe bowl, melt the butter (about 90 seconds). Stir in granulated sugar, brown sugar, and sifted cocoa powder. Let cool slightly if very hot.

3. Add wet ingredients:
   Stir in vanilla extract, eggs, egg yolk, and corn syrup until well combined.

4. Add dry ingredients:
   Mix in flour, cornstarch, and salt. Stir until just combined. The batter will be thick.

5. Bake:
   Spread the batter evenly into the prepared pan. Bake for 25 minutes. Let cool completely in the pan before frosting.

6. Make the frosting:
   In a small microwave-safe bowl, heat the heavy cream for 1 minute. Add chocolate chips and let sit for 3 minutes. Stir until smooth.

7. Frost the brownies:
   Pour the ganache over the cooled brownies and spread evenly. Top with rainbow candy-coated chocolate chips.

8. Chill and serve:
   Refrigerate for 1–2 hours, or until frosting is fully set. Slice into squares and enjoy!

Servings and timing

• Yield: 16 brownies

• Prep time: 15 minutes

• Cook time: 25 minutes

• Inactive time: 1 hour (chill time)

• Total time: 1 hour 40 minutes

Variations

• Nutty version: Add chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter.

• Extra fudgy: Use dark chocolate cocoa powder for deeper flavor.

• Frosting twist: Mix in a little espresso powder with the ganache for a mocha flavor.

• Candy alternatives: Use chopped chocolate bars, crushed Oreos, or other fun toppings instead of rainbow chips.

• Double batch: Use a 9×13 pan and double all ingredients for a crowd.

Storage/Reheating

• To store: Keep in an airtight container for up to 3 days at room temperature or 1 week in the refrigerator.

• To freeze: Freeze individual brownies in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 2 months.

• To serve: Brownies are best served chilled, straight from the fridge.

FAQs

Can I use Dutch-processed cocoa powder?

Yes, but the flavor will be slightly richer. Regular unsweetened cocoa works best for a classic Cosmic Brownie flavor.

Do I have to use corn syrup?

It helps with the chewy texture but can be omitted or replaced with honey or maple syrup in a pinch.

Can I make these gluten-free?

Yes, use a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend for the all-purpose flour.

Can I use milk instead of heavy cream for the ganache?

Heavy cream gives the best consistency, but whole milk can be used in a pinch with slightly thinner results.

How do I get clean cuts?

Chill the brownies fully, then use a sharp knife wiped clean between each slice.

Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely—just bake in a 9×13 pan and adjust the baking time by a few extra minutes.

Do I need a metal pan?

A metal pan gives the best results for even baking and chewy edges. A glass pan may require a few extra minutes of baking.

Why are my brownies cakey?

Overmixing or overbaking can lead to cakier brownies. Mix just until combined and don’t overbake.

Can I add espresso powder to the batter?

Yes, a small amount (½ teaspoon) enhances the chocolate flavor without making the brownies taste like coffee.

Can I make these ahead?

Yes, they’re perfect for making a day in advance. Store in the fridge and slice just before serving.

Conclusion

These homemade Cosmic Brownies are the ultimate nostalgic treat—fudgy, chewy, and topped with that signature shiny chocolate frosting and rainbow chips. They’re easy to make, fun to decorate, and even better than the boxed originals. Perfect for parties, bake sales, or a sweet trip down memory lane, these brownies are sure to be a repeat favorite.