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Monster Mash Brownies are the showstopper every Halloween needs. These are fudgy brownies loaded with gooey marshmallows, sweet candy, crunchy pretzels, and playful candy eyes right on top. It is a fun baking project that delivers big chocolate flavor with fun, kid-friendly mix-ins for a spooky celebration.
I was inspired by a favorite Halloween bash when I first brought these brownies. The tray disappeared in minutes and everyone wanted the secret behind the monster eyes.
Ingredients
- Boxed brownie mix: this is the reliable shortcut to chewy rich brownies choose a brand you trust
- Chocolate chips: for intense bursts of chocolate in every bite opt for dark or semi-sweet chips with a glossy finish
- Mini marshmallows: add soft gooey pockets throughout select fresh fluffy marshmallows for best results
- Candy corn: injects sweet autumn flavor and festive color pick pieces that are whole and not dried out
- Pretzels: broken into pieces give crunch and salty balance go for traditional mini pretzels and check they are fresh not stale
- Halloween sprinkles: add pops of color and whimsy shake the container and pick one with bold bright confetti shapes
- Googly eye candies: create the iconic monster look check for ones that are big enough to stand out and not too hard
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Brownie Batter:
- Mix together your boxed brownie batter just as the instructions say. Make sure to beat the eggs and oil thoroughly so your brownies turn out shiny and moist.
- Add the Chocolate Chips:
- Fold in the chocolate chips gently using a spatula. This helps distribute the chocolate evenly so every square has plenty of melty chips.
- Bake the Brownies:
- Pour the batter into a greased pan and level it out with your spatula. Bake according to the box directions until a toothpick poked in the center comes out mostly clean. If you like fudgier brownies stop baking when a few moist crumbs still stick to the toothpick.
- Top with the Mix-Ins:
- As soon as the pan comes out of the oven sprinkle marshmallows candy corn pretzel pieces and Halloween sprinkles across the top. Spread them evenly for color and texture in every piece.
- Melt the Toppings:
- Place the pan back in the oven for just a few minutes. You want the marshmallows to soften and start to puff but not fully melt away. Watch closely so the toppings do not brown too much.
- Cool and Decorate:
- Let the brownies cool completely in the pan. This gives everything time to set so they can be cut neatly. Once cool cut into squares and carefully press one or two googly eye candies onto each one for silly monster faces.
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Googly eye candies always spark laughter at the table. One year we had a contest for the silliest monster combo and it was the best part of our Halloween night.
Storage Tips
Store leftover brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. If layering wrap parchment between each layer to keep marshmallows from sticking. For longer storage freeze individual pieces for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature whenever you want a sweet spooky treat.
Ingredient Substitutions
You can use any chocolate chips milk white or peanut butter chips for a twist. If candy corn is not your style try chopped gummy candies or colored chocolate buttons. Rice cereal gives extra crunch if you do not have pretzels. Vegan-friendly options work by picking plant-based marshmallows and brownie mix.
Serving Suggestions
Pile brownies onto a platter and scatter a few extra candy eyes around for effect. Serve with scoops of vanilla or pumpkin ice cream for a festive dessert. For parties set up a decorating bar and let everyone top their own brownie square.
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Halloween Fun and History
Brownies have been a Halloween staple at our house ever since the kids decided candy bowls alone were not enough. Adding monster faces is easy for little hands and makes sharing homemade treats more memorable than just handing out store-bought candy. This twist combines American love for brownies with playful holiday spirit.
Common Recipe Questions
- → Can I use homemade brownie batter instead of a mix?
Absolutely! You can swap in your favorite homemade brownie batter. Just follow your usual mixing and baking instructions, then proceed with the fun toppings as described.
- → What other toppings could I use?
Try using chopped nuts, mini chocolate candies, crushed cookies, or different shaped sprinkles to customize your Monster Mash brownies.
- → Can I make these brownies ahead of time?
Yes, these brownies keep well for up to 3 days at room temperature in an airtight container, making them perfect for advance party prep.
- → How can I make the brownies extra fudgy?
For fudgier brownies, slightly underbake them by a few minutes, ensuring a gooey centre. Use high-quality dark chocolate for best flavor.
- → Do I need to use candy eyes?
Candy eyes add a playful touch, but the brownies will still taste delicious without them. You can skip or substitute with chocolate chips or icing dots.
- → Can I freeze Monster Mash brownies?
Yes, freeze in layers separated by parchment. Bring to room temperature before serving for best texture and flavor.