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Copycat Cosmic Brownies Recipe: A Nostalgic Sweet Treat!
Step into a time machine and treat yourself to the rich, fudgy goodness of Copycat Cosmic Brownies, inspired by the beloved childhood snack. This homemade version is decadent, packed with chocolate, and topped with colorful candy-coated chocolate pieces—just like the ones you remember!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Ultra Fudgy: The brownie base is rich and dense, perfect for chocolate lovers.
- Easy to Make: The ganache comes together quickly and gives these brownies a professional touch.
- Nostalgia on a Plate: These brownies will transport you back to your childhood with every bite.
Ingredients for Copycat Cosmic Brownies:
For the Brownie Base:
- Baking spray (for greasing the pan)
- 14 oz bittersweet chocolate (60% cacao), coarsely chopped
- 1½ cups unsalted butter
- ⅔ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 6 tbsp canola oil
- 2 tbsp vanilla extract
- 2⅓ cups granulated sugar
- 1 cup light brown sugar, packed
- 6 large eggs
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 tbsp cornstarch
- 1½ tsp kosher salt
- ½ tsp baking powder
For the Ganache Topping:
- 7 oz semisweet chocolate (56% cacao), coarsely chopped
- ¾ cup heavy cream
- 1 tbsp unsalted butter
- ⅛ tsp kosher salt
- ¼ cup rainbow candy-coated chocolate pieces (for that classic Cosmic Brownie look)
Directions to Make Copycat Cosmic Brownies:
1. Prepare the Brownie Base:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 13×9-inch baking pan with foil, leaving some overhang on the sides for easy removal. Spray the foil with baking spray to prevent sticking.
- In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the bittersweet chocolate and unsalted butter together in short intervals, stirring until smooth.
- Whisk in the cocoa powder, canola oil, and vanilla extract until fully combined. Then, stir in the granulated sugar and light brown sugar until the mixture is smooth.
- Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing after each addition.
- Fold in the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, kosher salt, and baking powder until just combined (be careful not to overmix).
- Pour the brownie batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
- Bake for 55-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with only a few moist crumbs attached.
- Once baked, let the brownies cool to room temperature, then place them in the refrigerator to chill for about 1 hour (this helps with cutting later).
2. Make the Ganache Topping:
- In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream over medium heat until just simmering (don’t let it boil).
- Pour the hot cream over the semisweet chocolate and let it sit for a minute to soften the chocolate.
- Add the unsalted butter and kosher salt, then stir until the ganache is smooth and shiny.
- Spread the ganache evenly over the chilled brownies.
3. Add the Finishing Touches:
- Sprinkle the rainbow candy-coated chocolate pieces over the ganache, pressing them gently into the surface to ensure they stick.
- Place the brownies back in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to let the ganache set.
4. Serve:
- Once the ganache is firm, use the foil overhang to lift the brownies out of the pan. Cut into evenly sized squares and, for that authentic Cosmic Brownie look, make a light indentation on top of each brownie with a knife.
Tips for Success:
- Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on the brownies while baking. You want them fudgy and dense, not dry.
- Chill Time is Key: Refrigerating the brownies before adding the ganache ensures they are firm enough for a smooth ganache layer.
- Get Creative: If you can’t find candy-coated chocolate pieces, you can use mini M&Ms or sprinkles for a similar effect.
Why These Copycat Cosmic Brownies Are a Must-Try:
Not only do these brownies capture the same chewy, fudgy texture and rich chocolate flavor of the original store-bought version, but the homemade touch makes them even better. The glossy ganache paired with the colorful candy toppings will bring a smile to your face, just like when you were a kid!
