Why You Must Make These Brownies

• They’re a copycat recipe of Little Debbie’s that surpasses the original!
• If you have a sweet spot for rich, dense brownies with a fudgy frosting, these are just for you!
• With cocoa powder in the brownies and semisweet chocolate in the frosting, they’re perfect for any chocoholic.
• Plus, you get to enjoy the iconic colorful sprinkles on top!

The History of Cosmic Brownies

Curiously, I realized why I don’t have fond memories of this Little Debbie product; it was only introduced in December 1999! By then, I had three children and purposely avoided the snack aisle whenever they tagged along to the grocery store.

These Cosmic Brownies emerged as part of a cosmic bowling trend that infused bowling alleys with vibrant disco lights and lively music. Believe me, I vividly remember those cosmic bowling nights!

Ingredient Notes

• Kitchen Staples: Butter, Sugar, Brown Sugar
• Eggs: Ensure they are at room temperature. Large eggs are standard.
• Coffee: I’m not a coffee aficionado, so I use instant coffee. Leftover brewed coffee works well, too.
• Vanilla Extract: Opt for real vanilla extract over imitation.
• Cocoa Powder: Use unsweetened cocoa, not hot cocoa mix. Avoid Dutch processed unless specified.
• Espresso Powder: Similar to coffee, espresso enhances the chocolate flavor. Instant espresso is also a great option.
• Cornstarch: This ingredient contributes to softer, tender brownies.
• Baking Powder: Make sure not to confuse it with baking soda. Check the expiry date on your baking powder.
• Chocolate Chips: I prefer using Ghirardelli semisweet chocolate chips.
• Cream: I use heavy cream with 36% butterfat.
• Rainbow Chip Sprinkles: You can use mini M&Ms or other small candies, but sprinkles add the perfect touch.

How to Make Cosmic Brownies

Let me share just how rich and delightful these brownies are. My husband confessed that he devoured a Cosmic Brownie for breakfast because there was no bread left in the house! Who knew they were that tempting?

Here’s how to create your own batch:

1. Prepare: Preheat your oven to 350ºF and line an 8×8-inch baking pan with non-stick foil. This ensures easy removal for cutting the brownies.
2. Mix: Combine the brownie ingredients per the recipe guidelines. Use a gentle hand to maintain that fudgy texture — overmixing can lead to air incorporation, resulting in a cakey brownie.
3. Incorporate: Work with room-temperature eggs for smoother blending.
4. Spread: Transfer the brownie batter into the prepared pan, using an offset spatula to smooth and level the top.
5. Bake: Follow the baking instructions carefully. If you’re using a 9×9-inch pan, reduce the baking time slightly.
6. Check: Test for doneness with a toothpick. It should emerge clean or with a few moist crumbs.
7. Cool: Allow the brownies to cool for at least 30 minutes before preparing the frosting.
8. Prepare Ganache: Microwave the cream and chocolate chips together, stir until smooth, then generously pour over the brownies.
9. Decorate: Add your rainbow sprinkles, mini M&Ms, or other small candies on top and chill for at least 2 hours before cutting.

How to Cut Cosmic Brownies

Cutting brownies topped with candies can be a bit tricky, but I have some hacks to make it easier:

1. After chilling for 30 minutes, gently score the top of the brownies to mark your cut lines as the frosting won’t be completely set. You might need to reposition some sprinkles.
2. Begin by slicing a line down the middle and then do a quarter turn to cut down the middle again, resulting in four equal squares.
3. Divide each square into four smaller squares. Return the brownies to the fridge to finish cooling.
4. When it’s time to slice, use a sharp knife and wipe it clean between cuts for neat squares.

Frequently Asked Questions