Easy Frosted Brownies served on plates
Easy Frosted Brownies

Easy Frosted Brownies

Recipe by Molly Marzalek-Kelly
Not Yet Reviewed
Bake it Easy

These fudgy frosted brownies are an upgrade from the boxed brownies you may have had as a child. This from-scratch version delivers all the joy with a richer, deeper chocolate flavor. And the best part? It’s only slightly more effort than reaching for the box. With one bowl and about one hour, you can be rewarded with ultra-fudgy brownies, a luscious layer of silky ganache, and a shower of vibrant sprinkles for that signature cosmic charm. Whether you're baking for a potluck, picnic, or just because, these brownies guarantee nostalgic happiness.   

Prep
20 mins
Bake
18 to 22 mins
Total
45 mins
Yield
one 9" x 13" pan
Easy Frosted Brownies served on plates and cutting board - select to zoom
Easy Frosted Brownies served on plates and cutting board - select to zoom
Close-up of Easy Frosted Brownies - select to zoom
Easy Frosted Brownies ingredients - select to zoom

Instructions

Prevent your screen from going dark as you follow along.

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F. Lightly grease a 9" x 13" pan and line the pan with a parchment sling.

  2. To make the brownies: In a large bowl, stir together the sugar, flour, cocoa, espresso powder, salt, and baking powder until well combined and no lumps remain. 

  3. Add the eggs, melted butter, oil, and vanilla to the bowl and continue stirring with a flexible spatula until smooth.  

  4. Transfer the batter to the prepared pan and use a small offset spatula to spread it evenly. 

  5. Bake the brownies for 18 to 22 minutes, until the middle is set and they are just barely beginning to pull away from the sides of the pan. A toothpick inserted into the center will come out clean or with a few moist crumbs clinging to it; you shouldn't see any wet batter. 

  6. Remove the brownies from the oven and allow them to cool while you prepare the topping. It’s OK if the brownies are not completely cool before adding the topping.  

  7. To make the topping: In a small microwave-safe bowl, heat the chocolate chips, cream, and butter in 30-second intervals, stirring after each interval, until smooth, about 1 to 2 minutes total. 

  8. Pour the melted chocolate over the brownies and use a small offset spatula to spread it evenly across the surface, then top with sprinkles. 

  9. Place the pan, uncovered, in the refrigerator to allow the chocolate topping to set, 30 to 45 minutes, before removing the brownies from the pan and slicing. 

  10. Storage information: Store leftover frosted brownies, covered, at room temperature or in the refrigerator for up to 1 week; freeze for longer storage.  

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