Stardust Ganache Brownies

Indulge in the nostalgic delight of these incredibly rich, unbelievably fudgy, and utterly irresistible Homemade Cosmic Brownies. Forget store-bought; this meticulously crafted recipe brings the iconic Little Debbie treat right to your kitchen, elevating it with a luxurious ganache topping and a vibrant burst of classic rainbow chip sprinkles. Prepare for a truly swoon-worthy experience that will captivate chocoholics and bring a smile to kids and adults alike, including my own husband!

Each bite of these Ganache Topped Cosmic Brownies promises a dense, chocolatey foundation crowned with a silky smooth, intensely flavorful ganache, all adorned with those beloved, colorful sprinkles. It’s more than just a dessert; it’s a journey back to simpler times, packed with homemade goodness and an undeniable charm.

A narrow white tray holds several Ganache Topped Cosmic Brownies, each perfectly cut and adorned with colorful rainbow chip sprinkles.

Contents

Why You Need to Bake These Incredible Cosmic Brownies Today

Are you searching for a dessert that’s guaranteed to impress and satisfy even the most discerning sweet tooth? Look no further! These homemade Cosmic Brownies aren’t just a recipe; they’re an experience. Here’s why these fudgy delights deserve a spot in your baking repertoire:

Better Than the Original Little Debbie Copycat: While the classic Little Debbie Cosmic Brownies hold a special place in our hearts, this homemade version takes everything you love about them and amplifies it. Crafted with fresh, high-quality ingredients, these brownies boast a depth of flavor and a superior texture that simply can’t be matched by mass-produced snacks. You’ll find them richer, more tender, and undeniably more satisfying.
A Dream for Fudgy Brownie Aficionados: If your ideal brownie is dense, moist, and wonderfully fudgy, rather than cakey, then this recipe is tailor-made for you. We focus on techniques and ingredients that ensure a deeply chocolatey, chewy center with perfectly set edges, creating that quintessential fudgy texture that brownie lovers crave.
Pure Chocolate Bliss for Chocoholics: This recipe delivers a double dose of chocolate heaven. The brownie base is infused with robust cocoa powder, providing a rich, earthy chocolate flavor. But the indulgence doesn’t stop there! A velvety smooth ganache topping, made with luscious semi-sweet chocolate, adds another layer of intense chocolate goodness, creating a truly decadent treat that’s perfect for any chocolate enthusiast.
The Iconic Rainbow Sprinkles: What are Cosmic Brownies without their signature vibrant sprinkles? These brownies feature those unmistakable, colorful rainbow chips that not only add a playful visual appeal but also a delightful textural contrast and a hint of extra sweetness. They are the crowning jewel that makes these brownies instantly recognizable and irresistibly fun.

A Nostalgic Glimpse: The History of Cosmic Brownies

It’s funny how certain snacks can transport you back in time. For me, the Little Debbie Cosmic Brownie holds a unique place, though my personal memories of them are a bit more recent. I finally pieced together why this particular Little Debbie product wasn’t part of my early childhood nostalgia – they weren’t introduced until December of 1999! By that point, I was already a busy mother of three, and my grocery store visits often involved strategically avoiding the snack aisle with my little ones in tow. The allure of convenience treats had long been replaced by a focus on healthier options, meaning these delightful brownies slipped under my radar for quite some time.

These distinctively named Little Debbie’s Cosmic Brownies were actually developed to tap into the “cosmic bowling” trend that swept the nation in the late 90s. This was an era when bowling alleys transformed into neon-lit, music-pumping entertainment hubs, complete with glow-in-the-dark pins and disco balls. I vividly remember cosmic bowling – the energy, the lights, the fun atmosphere. It’s a perfect reflection of the playful, energetic vibe that these brownies, with their bright sprinkles, sought to capture. It’s a sweet reminder of a fun, quirky moment in pop culture history, now reimagined for your home kitchen.

A rustic wooden tray filled with freshly baked Cosmic Brownies, alongside a charming glass jar brimming with colorful rainbow chip sprinkles.

Essential Ingredient Notes for Your Perfect Brownies

Crafting the perfect batch of homemade Cosmic Brownies starts with understanding your ingredients. While many items might be kitchen staples, a few key details can elevate your brownies from good to absolutely outstanding. Here’s what you need to know:

Butter, Granulated Sugar, Brown Sugar: These form the foundation of our fudgy brownie base. Using both white and brown sugar contributes to a richer flavor and a chewier texture. Brown sugar adds moisture and molasses notes, enhancing the depth of the chocolate. Ensure your butter is melted but not boiling hot when incorporating it, as this helps create that dense, fudgy consistency we’re aiming for.
Eggs: Always use large eggs for standard baking recipes. Critically, ensure your eggs are at room temperature. Room temperature eggs emulsify more easily with the other ingredients, leading to a smoother, more uniform batter and a more tender final product. If you forget to take them out ahead of time, simply place them in a bowl of warm water for 5-10 minutes.
Coffee or Instant Espresso Powder: Don’t skip this secret weapon! While I’m not a coffee drinker myself, I always keep instant espresso powder on hand for baking. A small amount of coffee or espresso powder doesn’t make your brownies taste like coffee; instead, it remarkably deepens and intensifies the chocolate flavor, making it richer and more profound. If using liquid coffee, use brewed coffee or instant coffee dissolved in a small amount of water.
Vanilla Extract: Invest in high-quality, pure vanilla extract. The difference between real vanilla and imitation vanilla is noticeable in baked goods, adding a warm, complex aroma and flavor that complements the chocolate beautifully.
Unsweetened Cocoa Powder: This is crucial for the brownie’s chocolate flavor. Use natural unsweetened cocoa powder, not Dutch-processed cocoa, unless the recipe specifically calls for it, as they react differently with leavening agents. And absolutely do not substitute hot cocoa mix, which contains sugar and other additives.
All-Purpose Flour: For these fudgy brownies, we want to develop minimal gluten. Measure your flour correctly by spooning it into the measuring cup and leveling it off, rather than scooping directly from the bag.
Cornstarch: This might seem like an unusual addition to brownies, but it’s a game-changer! Adding just a tablespoon of cornstarch helps to reduce gluten development, resulting in a softer, more tender, and often chewier brownie. It works wonders in achieving that desirable dense, fudgy texture.
Baking Powder: Essential for a slight lift without creating a cakey texture. Baking powder and baking soda are not interchangeable, so be sure to use the correct one. Also, baking powder can lose its potency over time. Always check the expiration date on your can. You can quickly test its freshness by mixing a spoonful in a bowl of hot water; if it bubbles vigorously, it’s good to go!
Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips: These are for your glorious ganache topping. I recommend using a good quality brand like Ghirardelli or Guittard semi-sweet chocolate chips for the best flavor and melting consistency. Higher quality chocolate will result in a smoother, more luxurious ganache.
Heavy Cream: For a truly decadent ganache, use heavy cream, typically with 36% butterfat. This high fat content creates a rich, creamy, and wonderfully smooth ganache that sets beautifully on top of your brownies. Do not substitute with half-and-half or milk, as the ganache will not have the same luxurious texture.
Rainbow Chip Sprinkles: These are the signature touch! While you can use mini M&M’s or other small colorful candies as a substitute, the unique, irregular shape of rainbow chip sprinkles truly captures the classic Cosmic Brownie look. They are often found in craft stores like JoAnn Fabrics and Michael’s, or check larger grocery stores for brands like Wilton or Betty Crocker.

Crafting Your Copycat Cosmic Brownies: A Step-by-Step Guide

I simply must share a quick anecdote before we dive into the method. When I proudly informed my husband there were more of these homemade Cosmic Brownies chilling in the refrigerator, he nonchalantly replied, “I know.” He then confessed that, finding no bread for breakfast one morning, he had opted for a Cosmic Brownie instead. What?! I’m not entirely convinced that’s a viable breakfast substitute, but it certainly speaks volumes about how utterly impossible these brownies are to resist! They’re that good!

Here’s a detailed guide to making these incredible, fudgy Little Debbie-style brownies:

Prepare Your Baking Pan: First, select an 8×8-inch square baking pan for the ideal brownie thickness. Line it meticulously with non-stick aluminum foil, extending the foil up and over the edges to create “handles.” This crucial step ensures you can easily lift the entire slab of brownies out of the pan once cooled, making the cutting process much simpler and cleaner. If you don’t have non-stick foil, regular foil sprayed generously with non-stick cooking spray will also work. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Mix the Brownie Ingredients Thoughtfully: The secret to fudgy brownies lies in careful mixing. Combine your brownie ingredients precisely according to the recipe instructions. It’s imperative not to overmix the batter. Overmixing, or using a mixer on too high a speed, incorporates too much air and develops the gluten in the flour excessively. This results in a cakier brownie rather than the dense, chewy, and intensely fudgy texture we’re aiming for. Mix just until the ingredients are combined.
Incorporate Room Temperature Eggs: As mentioned in the ingredient notes, using room temperature eggs is vital. They blend more smoothly into the batter, creating a more uniform emulsion and contributing to a softer, more consistent texture in your baked brownies.
Scrape and Spread the Batter: Once your batter is perfectly mixed, pour it into your prepared pan. Use an offset spatula to gently scrape all the batter from the bowl and then spread it evenly into all corners of the pan. The offset spatula is excellent for smoothing and leveling the top of the batter, ensuring an even bake.
Bake to Perfection: Follow the recipe’s baking time diligently. For an 8×8-inch pan, this is typically 28-30 minutes. If you opt for a 9×9-inch pan, your brownies will be slightly thinner, so reduce the baking time by a few minutes (e.g., 25-28 minutes) to prevent them from drying out.
Check for Doneness Accurately: To determine if your brownies are done, insert a wooden toothpick or a thin skewer into the center of the pan. When you pull it out, there should be no wet batter clinging to it. A few moist crumbs are perfectly acceptable and even desirable, as this indicates a truly fudgy interior. A completely clean toothpick suggests your brownies might be on the drier, more cakey side.
Cool Before Frosting: Resist the urge to frost immediately! Allow the brownies to cool on a wire rack for at least 30 minutes, or even longer, before you even begin preparing the ganache. This cooling period is essential for the brownies to set properly and for the ganache to adhere beautifully without melting or sliding off.
Whip Up the Silky Ganache: While your brownies are cooling, prepare the rich ganache topping. Combine the semi-sweet chocolate chips and heavy cream in a medium, microwave-safe bowl. Microwave on high for one minute, then let it stand for a few minutes to allow the residual heat to melt the chocolate. Stir well until it’s completely smooth and glossy. If you still have a few small lumps, microwave for an additional 15 seconds, stir again, and repeat if necessary, until perfectly smooth.
Top and Sprinkle: Pour the smooth ganache evenly over the cooled brownies. Use an offset spatula to gently spread it from edge to edge. Immediately, while the ganache is still wet, generously sprinkle with your rainbow chip sprinkles, mini M&M’s, or other small colorful candies. The ganache needs to be soft enough for the sprinkles to stick. For the best setting and cleanest cuts, chill the brownies in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or even longer, until the ganache is firm.

Overhead view of a tray of homemade cosmic brownies, glistening with ganache and covered in colorful sprinkles, ready to be cut.

The Art of Cutting Picture-Perfect Cosmic Brownie Squares

Cutting brownies, especially those adorned with a luxurious ganache and scattered with small candies, can be a little daunting. Achieving perfectly uniform squares might seem like an impossible feat, but with a few clever tips, you can get incredibly neat results. Here’s my tried-and-true method:

Score While Chilled: The first key is timing. After your brownies have chilled in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes (long enough for the ganache to firm up slightly but not completely harden), gently score the top of the brownies. Use a ruler and a thin, sharp knife to lightly mark where your cuts will be. This helps guide your final slices before the ganache fully sets and becomes too firm to manipulate easily. You will likely need to nudge some of the sprinkles out of the way as you score.
Divide and Conquer: For a batch that yields 16 brownies (from an 8×8-inch pan), visualize your cuts. First, make a light score down the exact middle of the pan in one direction. Then, give the pan a quarter turn and repeat, scoring down the middle again. You should now have four roughly equal squares marked. Next, divide each of those four squares into four smaller squares by scoring them. Once all 16 squares are marked, return the pan to the refrigerator to allow the ganache to finish chilling and become completely firm. This firm ganache will ensure cleaner cuts.
Use a Hot, Sharp Knife: When you’re ready for the final slice, arm yourself with your sharpest knife. For the cleanest possible cuts, dip your knife in hot water (very hot, almost boiling) and wipe it completely dry after each individual cut. The warmth helps the blade glide smoothly through the ganache and brownie without dragging, sticking, or disturbing the sprinkles too much. Repeating this process for every cut might seem tedious, but it makes a significant difference in presentation.

Frequently Asked Questions About Cosmic Brownies

Why Use Cornstarch in the Brownies?

Adding a small amount of cornstarch to a brownie recipe is a clever trick employed by many bakers to enhance texture. Its primary role is to reduce the overall amount of gluten developed in the batter, which is often responsible for cakey brownies. Less gluten translates directly to a more tender and softer crumb. Additionally, some bakers claim that just one tablespoon of cornstarch can also contribute to a chewier texture, making your brownies even more delectable and closer to that perfectly dense, fudgy ideal. It’s a simple addition with a noticeable impact!

What are Rainbow Chip Sprinkles and Where Can I Find Them?

Rainbow chip sprinkles are the iconic, vibrant, candy-coated chocolate sprinkles that adorn the classic Cosmic Brownies. Unlike standard cylindrical or spherical sprinkles, these have a unique, irregular, somewhat “chipped” or shard-like shape, giving them a distinct look and texture. They are typically coated in a bright, glossy shell of various rainbow colors. Finding them can sometimes be a treasure hunt! Look for the Wilton brand, which is often available at craft stores with baking sections, such as JoAnn Fabrics, Michael’s, or Hobby Lobby. Betty Crocker also produces a similar version that you might find in the baking aisle of larger, well-stocked grocery stores or specialty baking shops. Online retailers are another excellent resource if you’re having trouble locating them locally.

How Do You Store Cosmic Brownies to Keep Them Fresh?

Proper storage is key to enjoying your homemade Cosmic Brownies for as long as possible. These brownies keep exceptionally well at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 3 days, maintaining their fudgy texture and delicious flavor. If you plan to stack multiple layers, place a sheet of parchment paper or wax paper between each layer to prevent the ganache and sprinkles from sticking together. For longer storage, transfer them to the refrigerator, where they will stay fresh for up to a week. To freeze them, wrap individual brownies or a whole slab tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in an airtight freezer-safe container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply defrost them in the refrigerator overnight, or for a quicker thaw, let them sit at room temperature for an hour or two before serving.

Explore More Decadent Brownie Recipes

If these Cosmic Brownies have ignited your love for all things fudgy and chocolatey, you’re in for a treat! Here are some other delightful brownie recipes and baking resources you might enjoy:

Homemade Brownies from Celebrating Sweets – for a classic, rich, and intensely fudgy experience.
Layered Caramel Brownies – combining the best of rich chocolate with gooey, sweet caramel.
Strawberry Cheesecake Brownies – a delightful fusion of fruity cheesecake and decadent brownies.
One Bowl Fudgy Brownies – for when you crave fudgy goodness with minimal cleanup.
Simple Fudgy Brownies – an easy yet incredibly satisfying recipe for everyday indulgence.
Plus, delve into all my expert tips on How to Make Brownies for flawless results every time.
Discover over 50 more incredible Brownie Recipes – your ultimate guide to brownie perfection!

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The Ultimate Recipe:

Homemade Cosmic Brownies Recipe

Prep Time
15 minutes

Cook Time
25 minutes

Total Time
40 minutes

Yield
16 brownies

Indulge in rich, fudgy brownies topped with a luxurious chocolate ganache and vibrant candy-coated chocolate sprinkles. This copycat Little Debbie Cosmic Brownies recipe is guaranteed to become a new family favorite!

Ingredients

For the Fudgy Brownies:

¾ cup unsalted butter (1 ½ sticks), melted
1 cup granulated sugar
⅔ cup light brown sugar, packed
2 large eggs, at room temperature
3 tablespoons strong brewed coffee (or 1 tsp instant coffee + 3 tbsp hot water)
2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder (natural, not Dutch-processed)
1 teaspoon instant espresso powder mixed in 2 tablespoons of hot water (optional, but enhances chocolate)
¾ cup all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon cornstarch
½ teaspoon baking powder

For the Rich Chocolate Ganache Topping:

1 ½ cups semi-sweet chocolate chips (good quality recommended)
½ cup heavy cream (36% butterfat)
½ cup Rainbow Chip Sprinkles, mini M&Ms, or other small colorful candies (adjust amount to preference)

Instructions

Prepare Oven and Pan: Preheat your oven to 350ºF (175ºC). Line an 8 x 8-inch square baking pan with non-stick foil, ensuring the foil extends over the sides to create handles. This will make removing the brownies much easier. Alternatively, use regular foil and spray it thoroughly with non-stick cooking spray. Set the prepared pan aside.
Melt Butter: In a large, microwave-safe bowl, melt the butter using 30-second increments, stirring between each, until fully melted and smooth. Be careful not to overheat it.
Combine Wet Ingredients: Add the granulated sugar and brown sugar to the melted butter and mix until well combined. Then, stir in the room temperature eggs, coffee (or dissolved instant coffee), and vanilla extract. Mix until all ingredients are thoroughly incorporated and smooth.
Add Cocoa and Espresso: To the wet mixture, add the unsweetened cocoa powder and the espresso powder mixture. Whisk vigorously until the batter is smooth, glossy, and free of lumps.
Incorporate Dry Ingredients: Gently add the flour, cornstarch, and baking powder to the batter. Stir with a spatula or wooden spoon just until the dry ingredients are fully incorporated and no streaks of flour remain. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to a tougher, cakey brownie.
Bake the Brownies: Pour the brownie batter into your prepared pan. Use an offset spatula to lightly smooth and level the top. Bake for 28 to 30 minutes, or until the edges appear set and the top looks baked. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean, or with just a few moist crumbs attached (this indicates a perfect fudgy texture). Avoid overbaking. Cool the brownies completely on a wire rack in the pan.
Prepare the Ganache: While the brownies are cooling (allow at least 30 minutes), make the ganache. In a medium, microwave-safe bowl, combine the semi-sweet chocolate chips and heavy cream. Microwave on high for one minute. Remove from microwave and let stand for a few minutes.
Whisk Ganache to Smoothness: After standing, whisk the chocolate and cream mixture until completely smooth and shiny. If there are any stubborn lumps, microwave for an additional 15 seconds, then whisk again until fully smooth. Repeat if necessary.
Top and Chill: Pour the warm, smooth ganache evenly over the cooled brownies, spreading it gently with an offset spatula to cover the entire surface. Immediately sprinkle generously with the rainbow chip sprinkles or other colorful candies before the ganache sets. For best results and clean cutting, chill the brownies in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or until the ganache is firm to the touch. Once chilled, lift the brownies out of the pan using the foil handles, place on a cutting board, and slice into 16 squares using a warm, sharp knife (wiping the knife clean after each cut).

Notes

If using a 9 x 9-inch baking pan, your brownies will be slightly thinner. Adjust baking time to 25-28 minutes and monitor for doneness.

Please note that the “Total Time” listed does not include the essential cooling and chilling times for the brownies and ganache.

This recipe has been thoughtfully adapted from numerous sources, including Averie Cooks’ Homemade Little Debbie Cosmic Brownies, to create the perfect blend of flavor and texture.

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