Cosmic Brownies Recipe

I often find myself dreaming of those delightful cosmic brownies from childhood, and now I’ve cracked the code to making them at home! This cosmic brownies recipe delivers that signature fudgy texture and vibrant candy crunch, perfect for any busy evening. It’s a fantastic family-friendly treat, so simple to whip up, transforming pantry staples into pure joy. Get ready for a delicious, crowd-pleasing dessert that’s easier than you think and perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients and Smart Substitutions for Your Cosmic Brownies

• Unsalted butter: 170g (6 ounces) for richness and a chewy texture. (You can use plant-based butter for a dairy-free option!)
• Semi-sweet chocolate: 225g (8 ounces), finely chopped, for a deep chocolate base. (I sometimes reach for dark chocolate chips when I want an even more intense flavor.)
• Granulated sugar: 400g (2 cups) to sweeten and contribute to that classic chewy brownie.
• Large eggs: 3, which bind the ingredients and add moisture for a fudgy crumb.
• Alcohol-free vanilla extract: 10ml (2 teaspoons) for a fragrant, classic dessert aroma.
• All-purpose flour: 150g (1 ¼ cups) to provide structure without making the brownies cakey.
• Unsweetened cocoa powder: 60g (½ cup) for intense chocolate flavor. Consider using a premium dark cocoa powder for a richer color and taste.
• Fine sea salt: 5g (¾ teaspoon) to balance the sweetness and enhance the chocolate.

For the Salted Tahini Glaze:

• Tahini (sesame paste): 80g (⅓ cup) for an unexpected, nutty depth.
• Powdered sugar: 240g (2 cups), sifted, for a smooth, opaque glaze.
• Whole milk: 45ml (3 tablespoons) to achieve a pourable consistency.
• Fine sea salt: 1g (¼ teaspoon) to complement the tahini and chocolate.

For the Candied Sesame Crunch:

• White sesame seeds: 50g (⅓ cup) for nutty flavor and satisfying crunch.
• Granulated sugar: 60g (¼ cup) to create the candied coating.
• Water: 60ml (¼ cup) to dissolve the sugar for the syrup.

For the Garnish:

• Mini candy-coated chocolates: 50g (¼ cup) for the iconic bright, playful sprinkles.

Step-by-Step Cooking Method for Perfect Cosmic Brownies

1. Preheat & Prepare: Preheat your oven to 175°C (350°F). Line a 23x23cm (9×9-inch) square baking pan with parchment paper, allowing an overhang for easy lifting, then lightly grease the paper.
2. Melt Chocolate & Butter: Melt the butter and finely chopped semi-sweet chocolate in a heatproof bowl over simmering water (or microwave in 30-second bursts), stirring until smooth. Let the mixture cool slightly, until it’s warm but not hot to the touch.
3. Whip Eggs & Sugar: In a large bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar, large eggs, and alcohol-free vanilla extract for 2-3 minutes until the mixture lightens in color and becomes slightly fluffy.
4. Combine Wet Ingredients: Pour the slightly cooled chocolate-butter mixture into the egg mixture, stirring gently until just combined and evenly colored.
5. Add Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, unsweetened cocoa powder, and fine sea salt. Gradually add these dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing with a spatula until just combined with no streaks of flour. If you overmix at this stage, your cosmic brownies might lose their signature fudgy texture, so stop as soon as it’s homogenous. You can also add ½ teaspoon of espresso powder to the dry ingredients for a deeper chocolate flavor.
6. Bake the Brownies: Pour the batter into your prepared pan and spread it evenly. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out with moist crumbs attached but no wet batter. The edges will look set. Do not overbake. Let the cosmic brownies cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.
7. Prepare Candied Sesame Crunch: While the brownies cool, toast the white sesame seeds in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3-5 minutes until they are fragrant and lightly golden. Remove them. In the same skillet, combine granulated sugar and water. Heat over medium-low heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves and the mixture gently boils. Continue cooking without stirring until the syrup turns a light amber color. Immediately add the toasted sesame seeds, stir quickly to coat, then pour onto a parchment-lined baking sheet and spread thinly. Let it cool completely until brittle, then break into small, irregular shards for your cosmic brownies.
8. Whisk Salted Tahini Glaze: For the glaze, whisk together the tahini, sifted powdered sugar, whole milk, and fine sea salt in a medium bowl until smooth and pourable, like a thin frosting. If it’s too thick, add a tiny bit more milk, a teaspoon at a time.
9. Assemble Your Cosmic Brownies: Once the brownies are completely cool (the pan will be at room temperature), lift them from the pan using the parchment paper overhang. Pour the Salted Tahini Glaze over the cooled brownies and spread evenly to the edges with an offset spatula. Immediately sprinkle the Candied Sesame Crunch across the surface, aiming for an even, sparkling distribution. Carefully arrange the mini candy-coated chocolates in a playful pattern across the glazed surface, ensuring a vibrant pop of color. I often pop my brownies in the fridge for 15-20 minutes for a quick cool-down if my kids are impatient for these delicious cosmic brownies.
10. Set & Serve: Allow the glaze to set at room temperature for at least 30 minutes, or in the refrigerator for 15-20 minutes, before cutting. To serve, cut the cosmic brownies into 5x5cm (2×2-inch) squares using a hot, clean knife for precise, clean edges.

Serving Ideas and Storage Solutions for Your Cosmic Brownies

These fudgy, sprinkle-topped treats fit into countless scenarios, bringing smiles wherever they go. They are ideal for quick lunchbox treats or as a satisfying after-dinner dessert. You can also bring them to birthday parties, potlucks, or bake sales.

• Pairing Suggestions: Serve your cosmic brownies with a cold glass of milk, a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream, or alongside a warm mug of coffee for a perfect moment.
• Storage Guidance: Keep brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for 3-4 days. For longer freshness, store them in the fridge for up to a week. For meal prep, wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months; thaw at room temperature or warm briefly in the oven.

Sweet Indulgence & Smart Choices: Nutrition Notes for this Cosmic Brownies Recipe

Enjoying a homemade treat like this cosmic brownies recipe can support your goals by providing a satisfying dessert in moderation. Making them at home lets you control ingredients and portion sizes, preventing over-indulgence in less healthy processed options.

• You can reduce added sugar slightly without losing flavor, making them a custom treat.
• Baking these family-friendly sweets is a fun activity for kids, encouraging mindful eating.
• Using quality ingredients ensures you control what goes into your homemade comfort food.

Why This Cosmic Brownies Recipe Works for Busy Families

This recipe is designed for busy households seeking easy dinner ideas or quick desserts. Its straightforward nature saves time and keeps meals affordable, making it a reliable choice for any night.

• Busy schedule: Mix and bake these brownies in under an hour for a quick family dessert.
• Picky eaters: Everyone loves classic chocolate brownies with fun sprinkles, ensuring an empty plate.
• Portion control: Cut into smaller squares for satisfying individual servings, fitting into balanced eating.

Extra Tips & Customizations for Your Cosmic Brownies

Achieve bakery-level results with a few simple adjustments and personalize your brownies with fun flavor twists. A little attention to detail makes all the difference.

• Cooking Adjustments: Don’t overbake for ultimate fudginess; pull them from the oven when the edges are set but the center still looks slightly soft. Cool completely before cutting for neat, clean slices. I always chill my brownies for at least an hour before cutting; it makes for such neat squares!
• Flavor Twists: Add a cup of chocolate chips to the batter for extra richness, or spread a layer of homemade ganache on top. Switch up sprinkle colors for holidays or special events.
• Allergy-Safe & Kid-Friendly Tweaks: Use nut-free sprinkles, soy-free chocolate, or a gluten-free flour blend. Letting kids add the sprinkles is always a fun and engaging step.

Your Cosmic Brownies Recipe Questions Answered

Is this cosmic brownies recipe good for weekly dessert prep?

Yes, absolutely! These brownies store wonderfully in the fridge or freezer. This makes them ideal for planning ahead, providing a quick treat whenever you need one.

Where can I find those classic rainbow crunch sprinkles?

Look in the baking aisle of most grocery stores or online specialty baking shops. These iconic candy-coated sprinkles are essential for achieving the authentic look of your cosmic brownies.

Can this cosmic brownies recipe be made healthier without losing flavor?

You can make small adjustments for a healthier treat. Try reducing the sugar by 1/4 cup, using whole wheat pastry flour for added fiber, or even adding finely grated zucchini (it won’t affect the taste much!).

What makes these cosmic brownies so chewy?

The perfect ratio of fat to flour, along with not overbaking, ensures that signature dense, chewy texture. For that irresistible chew, I swear by using just the right amount of butter and never, ever overbaking; a slightly gooey center is key.

Can I double this cosmic brownies recipe for a crowd?

Absolutely! Simply use a larger pan, such as a 9×13 inch baking dish, and adjust the baking time slightly. Keep a close eye on doneness, testing with a toothpick in the center.

How do I prevent my sprinkles from melting into the brownies?

The trick is timing. Add the sprinkles after the brownies have cooled for about 10-15 minutes, or even completely. If you are adding a frosting or ganache, apply it once cool, then top with sprinkles.

Can I use a different type of chocolate in this cosmic brownies recipe?

While cocoa powder is key for the classic rich flavor, adding chocolate chips (milk, semi-sweet, or dark) to the batter can boost the chocolate richness. Feel free to experiment with your favorite kind!

This easy cosmic brownies recipe brings all the nostalgia and deliciousness right to your kitchen with minimal effort. After making a batch, I always feel a little bit like a superhero, bringing smiles all around with these family-friendly treats. Don’t wait – save this recipe now and plan to bake a batch of these amazing brownies tonight!

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