Cosmic Brownies Fudgy Delight

This ultra-rich copycat recipe for Cosmic Brownies brings back childhood nostalgia but with a homemade touch that elevates them beyond what you remember from the store. The perfect balance of fudgy, chewy texture with that signature chocolate frosting and colorful candy topping makes these irresistible.

I first made these for my niece's birthday when she requested something chocolatey with sprinkles. The way her eyes lit up when she saw these familiar treats made from scratch started a tradition in our family that continues years later.

Ingredients

• Unsalted butter: Creates a rich base for these decadent brownies
• Combination of granulated and brown sugar: Provides the perfect sweetness and moisture
• Cocoa powder: Gives that intense chocolate flavor without being bitter
• Corn syrup: Helps achieve that signature chewy texture reminiscent of the original
• Cornstarch: Works with the flour to create the ideal dense yet soft structure
• Heavy cream and semisweet chocolate chips: Create the smooth ganache topping
• Rainbow candy coated chocolate chips: Deliver the iconic cosmic look and delightful crunch

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the pan:

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F and lining your 8x8 metal baking pan with parchment paper or foil making sure to leave some overhang for easy removal. A light coating of cooking spray ensures nothing sticks.

Melt the butter:

Place your butter in a large microwave safe bowl and heat for about 90 seconds until completely melted. The butter should be hot but not sizzling to properly dissolve the sugars.

Mix wet ingredients:

While the butter is still warm add both sugars and cocoa powder stirring until well combined. The heat helps dissolve the sugars and bloom the cocoa flavor. Let cool slightly if too hot before adding eggs to prevent scrambling.

Add eggs and flavorings:

Stir in the vanilla extract two whole eggs plus one extra yolk and corn syrup mixing until the batter looks glossy and smooth. The extra yolk adds richness while the corn syrup contributes to that characteristic chewy texture.

Incorporate dry ingredients:

Gently fold in the flour cornstarch and salt just until combined. Overmixing at this stage can develop too much gluten resulting in cakey rather than fudgy brownies. The batter will be quite thick.

Bake to perfection:

Pour the batter into your prepared pan spreading it evenly into corners. Bake for exactly 25 minutes at 350°F. The brownies may appear slightly underbaked in the center but will continue cooking as they cool.

Create the ganache:

Heat the heavy cream in the microwave for one minute until hot but not boiling. Pour over the chocolate chips and let stand untouched for three minutes allowing the heat to melt the chocolate. Then stir until perfectly smooth and glossy.

Frost and decorate:

Pour the ganache over completely cooled brownies spreading it into an even layer. Immediately sprinkle with rainbow candy chips or your chosen topping. The warm ganache helps the candy adhere.

Chill for best texture:

Refrigerate the brownies for at least one hour or up to two hours until the frosting is completely set. This chilling time is crucial for developing that signature cosmic brownie texture and makes them easier to cut cleanly.

My absolute favorite moment in making these brownies is watching the transformation when the hot cream hits the chocolate chips. I still get a childlike excitement seeing it turn from separate ingredients into that glossy perfect frosting. My son now stands on a stool beside me waiting for his turn to sprinkle the candy on top.

The Secret to Fudgy Texture

The combination of cornstarch and minimal flour is what gives these brownies their distinctive texture. Unlike cakey brownies that use more leavening agents, these rely on the dense, fudgy quality that comes from a higher fat-to-flour ratio. The corn syrup further enhances the chewiness by preventing sugar crystallization during baking. For the ultimate fudgy experience, be careful not to overbake—the center should still look slightly underdone when you remove them from the oven.

Topping Options

While the classic Rainbow Candy-Coated Chocolate Chips create that nostalgic look, you have many options for topping these brownies. Mini M&Ms work wonderfully and are widely available. For a seasonal twist, use holiday-colored sprinkles or candies. Chopped Reese's Pieces offer a peanut butter element that pairs beautifully with chocolate. For an adult version, a light sprinkle of flaky sea salt over the ganache creates an elegant sweet-salty contrast that elevates these childhood treats.

Storage Recommendations

These brownies actually improve with time as the flavors deepen and meld. Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days, though they rarely last that long in my house. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to a week—the chilled texture is actually preferred by many who love the original Cosmic Brownies. For make-ahead convenience, you can freeze the fully decorated brownies for up to three months. Simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ How can I achieve fudgy brownies?

Ensure not to overbake the brownies. Follow the baking time, and let them cool completely to maintain a dense, fudgy texture.

→ Can I use a different topping instead of candy-coated chips?

Yes, you can use mini M&Ms, sprinkles, or any other colorful candy topping you prefer for a fun and vibrant finish.

→ What makes the frosting smooth and rich?

The combination of melted semisweet chocolate chips and heavy cream creates a smooth, luscious frosting for the brownies.

→ How long can these brownies be stored?

They can be stored for 3 days at room temperature or up to 1 week in the refrigerator when kept in an airtight container.

→ Can I freeze the brownies?

Yes, you can freeze the brownies in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.