Indulge in the cozy flavors of hot chocolate with these decadent brownies topped with a luscious marshmallow frosting. Perfect for chilly days or any occasion that calls for rich, chocolaty comfort, these brownies combine fudgy layers with a pillowy marshmallow topping, creating a dessert that’s sure to warm your heart and satisfy your sweet tooth. Let’s bring this irresistible treat to life!
Ingredients
For the Brownies:
- ½ cup unsalted butter
- 4 ounces semisweet chocolate, chopped
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¼ cup cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon instant coffee granules
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- Cocoa powder (for dusting)
For the Marshmallow Frosting:
- 1 cup marshmallow fluff
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
- 1 cup powdered sugar
Instructions
Make the Brownies:
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8-inch square baking pan and line it with parchment paper, allowing the edges to overhang for easy removal.
- Melt Butter and Chocolate: In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the butter and chopped semisweet chocolate in 20-second intervals, stirring between each, until smooth. Allow it to cool slightly.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar and eggs until pale and frothy, about 2 minutes. Stir in the vanilla extract and the melted chocolate mixture.
- Add Dry Ingredients: Sift the cocoa powder, instant coffee granules, flour, and salt into the wet mixture. Gently fold until just combined, avoiding overmixing.
- Bake the Brownies: Pour the batter into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. Let the brownies cool fully in the pan before slicing.
Prepare the Marshmallow Frosting:
- Whip Butter: In a mixing bowl, beat the softened butter with an electric mixer on medium speed until light and fluffy, about 2 minutes.
- Add Marshmallow Fluff: Add the marshmallow fluff, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt, and beat until fully incorporated.
- Mix in Powdered Sugar: Gradually add the powdered sugar, beating on low speed until smooth. Increase the speed to medium-high and whip until light and fluffy, about 2 minutes.
Assemble the Brownies:
- Frost the Brownies: Once the brownies have cooled completely, spread the marshmallow frosting evenly over the top. Use an offset spatula to create swirls for a decorative touch.
- Dust with Cocoa Powder: Lightly dust the frosting with cocoa powder for a hot chocolate-inspired finish.
- Slice and Serve: Lift the brownies out of the pan using the parchment paper overhang. Slice into squares and serve. Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Conclusion
Hot chocolate brownies with marshmallow frosting deliver a delightful fusion of flavors and textures, making them the ultimate winter dessert. The fudgy brownies are rich and decadent, while the light marshmallow frosting adds a playful, fluffy contrast. Pair them with a warm cup of cocoa or enjoy them on their own for a truly comforting treat that will have everyone asking for seconds!