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Homemade Cosmic Brownies

These decadent brownies feature a rich, dense chocolate base studded with vibrant candy pearls that add a fun textural contrast and nostalgic appeal. Dense, fudgy texture with a crispy-edged brownie exterior that's incredibly straightforward to make.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 22 minutes
Total Time 32 minutes
Servings: 12 brownies
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Calories: 285
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Brownies
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter
  • 4 ounces dark chocolate chopped (about 70% cacao)
  • 3/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
For Topping
  • 1/2 cup colorful candy pearls like nonpareils or pearl candies
  • 2 tablespoons white chocolate chips optional, for drizzle

Equipment

  • 8x8 inch square baking pan
  • Parchment paper
  • Medium saucepan
  • Mixing bowl
  • Whisk
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Rubber spatula
  • Oven thermometer

Method
 

  1. Set your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and position the rack to the center.
  2. Line an 8x8 inch baking pan with parchment paper, letting some hang over the sides for easy removal later.
  3. Combine the chopped dark chocolate and butter in a medium saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally until smooth and glossy.
  4. Remove the pan from heat and stir in both the granulated and brown sugar until the mixture is well combined.
  5. Crack the eggs into the chocolate mixture one at a time, whisking well after each addition before adding the vanilla extract.
  6. In a small bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, salt, and baking powder to remove any lumps.
  7. Pour the dry ingredients into the chocolate mixture and fold gently with a rubber spatula until just combined.
  8. Transfer the batter to your prepared pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake for 20 to 22 minutes, until the edges are set but the center still jiggles slightly when you shake the pan.
  9. Let the brownies cool in the pan for about five minutes until the surface is firm enough to handle. Immediately scatter the colorful candy pearls over the warm brownies so they stick slightly without melting into the chocolate.
  10. Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan, about two hours at room temperature, or chill in the refrigerator for faster cooling. If desired, melt the white chocolate chips and drizzle over the cooled brownies.

Notes

Use an instant-read thermometer to check for doneness: the center should read around 200 degrees Fahrenheit for perfectly fudgy brownies. Store brownies in an airtight container with parchment between layers to prevent the candies from sticking together. They keep for 5 to 7 days in the refrigerator or freeze for up to 3 months.