Description
Indulge in these decadent Hot Chocolate Brownies topped with a fluffy marshmallow frosting and mini marshmallow garnish. Rich cocoa combined with a moist brownie base and a sweet, airy frosting creates the perfect cozy dessert for chocolate lovers.
Ingredients
Scale
Brownie Base
- 1 cup Unsweetened cocoa powder (High-quality cocoa is key for the best results.)
- 1 cup All-purpose flour (Can substitute with gluten-free flour if needed.)
- 1 cup Granulated sugar (Brown sugar can be used for extra moistness.)
- 2 large Eggs (Room temperature eggs help achieve optimal texture.)
- 1/2 cup Butter (Can replace with vegetable oil for a dairy-free alternative.)
- 1 tbsp Vanilla extract (Pure vanilla extract enhances flavor.)
Marshmallow Frosting and Garnish
- 1 cup Marshmallow fluff (Opt for store-bought for convenience.)
- 1 cup Mini marshmallows (Perfect for garnishing.)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line an 8×8 inch baking pan with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy removal.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, sift together the unsweetened cocoa powder, all-purpose flour, and granulated sugar. Whisk thoroughly to blend evenly and break up any lumps.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, melt the butter until liquid and warm but not hot. Whisk in the eggs and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and homogeneous.
- Make the Batter: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients bowl and stir until just combined into a smooth batter, being careful not to overmix to maintain brownie texture.
- Bake the Brownies: Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 25 minutes. Insert a toothpick in the center to check doneness; it should come out with a few moist crumbs but not wet batter.
- Prepare the Marshmallow Frosting: While the brownies bake and cool, beat the marshmallow fluff using a mixer until it becomes light, fluffy, and smooth to spread easily.
- Cool and Frost: Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan to prevent melting the frosting. Once cooled, spread the marshmallow fluff evenly over the surface.
- Optional Broil for Toasted Finish: For added flavor and a toasty marshmallow top, place the frosted brownies under the broiler for 1-2 minutes, watching carefully to avoid burning.
- Chill and Garnish: Chill the brownies in the refrigerator for about one hour to set the frosting. Just before serving, sprinkle mini marshmallows evenly over the top as a garnish and to add chewy texture.
Notes
- Use room temperature eggs for better batter incorporation and brownie texture.
- Substitute brown sugar for granulated sugar to add moistness and a slight caramel flavor.
- For a dairy-free option, replace butter with vegetable oil.
- Ensure brownies are fully cooled before frosting to prevent melting the marshmallow fluff.
- Watch the brownies closely while broiling as marshmallows can burn quickly.
- Store leftover brownies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Desserts
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: hot chocolate brownies, marshmallow frosting, chocolate dessert, easy brownies, baked brownies
