Description
Indulge in these rich Hot Chocolate Brownies topped with a fluffy marshmallow frosting and mini marshmallows. Perfectly fudgy and layered with a sweet, toasted marshmallow finish, these brownies combine the comforting flavors of hot cocoa with a delightful dessert twist ideal for any occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
Brownie Batter
- 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.)
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) and grease or line an 8×8 inch baking pan to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, sift together the unsweetened cocoa powder, all-purpose flour, and granulated sugar. Whisk these together until well combined, ensuring there are no lumps.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, melt the butter until liquid. Whisk in the eggs and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and homogenous.
- Combine Batter: Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredient bowl. Stir gently until the batter is smooth and fully combined without overmixing to keep texture tender.
- Bake Brownies: Pour the smooth batter evenly into the prepared pan. Bake in the preheated oven for about 25 minutes. Test doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out with a few moist crumbs but not wet batter.
- Prepare Marshmallow Frosting: While the brownies bake and cool, beat the marshmallow fluff until it becomes fluffy and smooth for easy spreading.
- Cool and Frost: Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan at room temperature. Once cooled, evenly spread the marshmallow fluff frosting over the top.
- Optional Toasting: For a toasted marshmallow effect, place the frosted brownies under the broiler for 1-2 minutes, watching closely to prevent burning and until the marshmallow is just golden.
- Chill and Serve: Refrigerate the brownies for about an hour to set the frosting and make slicing easier. Garnish with mini marshmallows if desired before serving.
Notes
- Using high-quality unsweetened cocoa powder will significantly enhance the chocolate flavor.
- Room temperature eggs help achieve a smoother batter and better brownie texture.
- Replacing butter with vegetable oil makes a dairy-free version, but butter contributes to a richer flavor.
- Broiling the frosting is optional but adds a lovely toasted marshmallow note.
- For gluten-free variations, substitute all-purpose flour with a one-to-one gluten-free baking flour mix.
- 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 dessert
