Copycat Cosmic Brownies (2024)

Published on June 23, 2022 Updated on October 14, 2023 · By Lise Ode · Leave a Comment'

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These Copycat Cosmic Brownies taste just like your favorite LIttle Debbie brownies, but so much better! These fudgy brownies are topped with an easy chocolate ganache frosting (made without heavy cream) and mini rainbow chocolate chips.

Looking for another copycat recipe to bring back childhood memories? Try my Homemade Oatmeal Cream Pies or Copycat Hostess Cupcakes recipes. Both are fabulous and very popular on my blog.

Why I love this recipe

Super easy to make with a mix and just two ingredients for the frosting.

They taste so fresh and delicious!

You can easily make them gluten free AND dairy free.

The dreamy chocolate ganache frosting is simply amazing. This homemade version is so much better than the original Little Debbie Cosmic Brownies!

What you need

Ingredient Notes

How to make homemade cosmic brownies

Step 1 - Prepare the brownie mix according to package directions. I used a gluten free mix that included chocolate chips, so I removed the chocolate chips from the mix. This step is optional.

Step 2 - Using a rubber spatula, spread the brownie batter into a 9" x 9" square baking pan which has been sprayed with non-stick cooking spray and lined with parchment paper, letting the paper hang over the side slightly.

Step 3 - Bake pan of brownies according to package instructions. Let them cool completely before frosting.

Step 4 - For the ganache: Place the coconut milk (or heavy cream) in a medium, microwaveable bowl. Microwave on high until it just begins to bubble, about 30-40 seconds. Stir in chocolate chips until melted and smooth. Let the ganache stand until cooled, about 30 minutes. Pour the frosting over the cooled brownies.

5. Evenly spread chocolate ganache over cooled brownies. Use an offset spatula for easier spreading.

6. Sprinkle ganache with rainbow chip sprinkles. Then chill in refrigerator until set, about an hour. Remove chocolate brownies from pan by grabbing the edges of the parchment paper and pulling out. Place on cutting board and using a sharp knife, slice into 16 squares. Enjoy your fudgy treat!

Frequently asked questions

Why did you use a brownie mix for this Cosmic Brownie recipe? To be perfectly honest, I prefer using a mix for brownies over a made from scratch recipe. I don't like brownies from scratch as much. Just a personal preference. Plus it's quick and easy!

Can I make Copycat Cosmic Brownies ahead? Yes, you can make them two days ahead of time. Store them in the refrigerator in an airtight container.

Is it ok to use heavy cream instead of coconut milk? Yes, you can substitute the same amount of cream instead of coconut milk.

Substitute Milk Chocolate Chips? Yes you can use milk chocolate chips instead of semi-sweet chocolate chips in the frosting, but it won't taste like Cosmic Brownies as much.

Can I use a regular brownie mix? Yes, you can substitute a regular brownie mix instead of a gluten mix as I used today.

Expert Tips

Storage Tips - It's best to store these brownies in the refrigerator because the ganache gets very soft at room temperature. Store in an airtight container. Or simply cover the pan with aluminum foil or plastic wrap.

Baking Tip - Always use room temperature eggs in your baking recipes. Even if it's just a brownie mix. The cold eggs react differently with the ingredients and will affect the texture and consistency. For best results, use room temperature large eggs.

Ganache - Note that the chocolate ganache frosting will be sort of soupy at first. It simply needs to cool a bit before spreading onto brownies. You can speed up this process by placing your bowl of ganache over another bowl of ice and stir until slightly thickened.

Tips on Cutting your Brownies - Make sure you chill the brownies before cutting into squares to get a clean cut. If you can't wait, you can cut into them before chilling but just know that the ganache frosting won't be set and it might be a little messy.

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