Description
Cozy up with these Hot Chocolate Brownies with Fluffy Marshmallow Frosting! This dessert combines a rich, fudgy brownie base with a light, creamy marshmallow frosting, topped with a dusting of cocoa powder for the ultimate hot chocolate experience. Perfect for winter nights, holidays, or any time you’re craving something decadent, these brownies are easy to make and impossible to resist.
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 your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8-inch square baking pan and line it with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal.
- In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the unsalted butter and chopped semisweet chocolate in 20-second intervals, stirring after each, until smooth. Let the mixture cool slightly.
- In a large mixing 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.
- Sift the cocoa powder, instant coffee granules, flour, and salt into the wet mixture. Gently fold everything together until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the brownies fudgy.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread it evenly. Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan before frosting.
Prepare the Marshmallow Frosting:
- In a mixing bowl, beat the softened butter with an electric mixer on medium speed until light and fluffy (about 2 minutes).
- Add the marshmallow fluff, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Beat until fully combined.
- Gradually mix in the powdered sugar, starting on low speed and increasing to medium-high once incorporated. Beat until the frosting is smooth, fluffy, and light (about 2 minutes).
Assemble the Brownies:
- Once the brownies are completely cool, spread the marshmallow frosting evenly over the top using an offset spatula. Create decorative swirls for a professional look.
- Dust the frosted brownies lightly with cocoa powder for a hot chocolate-inspired touch.
- Use the parchment paper overhang to lift the brownies out of the pan. Slice into squares and serve.
Store Leftovers:
- Place brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to 1 week.
Notes
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Enhance the Flavor: Adding instant coffee granules to the brownie batter intensifies the chocolate flavor without making it taste like coffee.
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Frosting Tip: Ensure the brownies are completely cool before adding the marshmallow frosting to prevent it from melting.
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Custom Toppings: Add mini marshmallows, chocolate shavings, or a sprinkle of crushed peppermint on top for a festive twist.
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Storage Tip: Store brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for 3 days or in the fridge for up to a week to maintain freshness.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American