Frosted Halloween Monster Mash Brownies
Delicious brownies decorated for Halloween, featuring rich chocolate flavor and peanut butter cups.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30-45 minutes
- Total Time: 65 minutes
- Yield: 12 brownies
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 2 sticks (1 cup) unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
- 2 cups Dixie Crystals Extra Fine Granulated Sugar
- 2 teaspoons vanilla or chocolate extract
- 4 large eggs
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 ounce chocolate syrup
- 9 peanut butter cups
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 8 cups powdered sugar (plus more if desired for thicker icing)
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- Halloween sprinkles
- Gummy eyeballs
- No. 8B Open Star Decorating Tip
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C).
- Line a 9×9-inch square baking pan with parchment paper or foil, ensuring the ends overlap for easy removal later.
- Combine the diced butter, sugar, and cocoa powder in a large bowl. Heat the mixture in the microwave for 30 seconds, stir, and then microwave for an additional 30 seconds until melted. Allow the mixture to cool slightly.
- Stir in the vanilla extract and salt into the chocolate mixture.
- Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- Gradually add the flour, mixing until fully incorporated. Then, stir in the chocolate syrup.
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan. Press the peanut butter cups into the batter, distributing them evenly.
- Bake for 30-45 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick; it should come out with a few moist crumbs.
- Cool completely in the pan after baking.
- Cream the softened butter in a mixing bowl, then add the cream cheese and mix well. Gradually add powdered sugar while mixing until smooth. Blend in the vanilla extract. Adjust thickness if desired.
- Cut the brownies into 9 to 12 squares. Pipe frosting onto each brownie and decorate with Halloween sprinkles and gummy eyeballs.
Notes
Ensure brownies are completely cool before frosting to avoid melting. Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor.