Candy Crush Brownies

Brownies are a beloved classic dessert that has been a staple in many households for generations. They are known for their rich, chocolatey flavor and chewy texture. However, if you’re looking to put a fun and exciting twist on this classic treat, Candy Crush Brownies might just be the perfect recipe for you. This delightful dessert incorporates crushed candies into the mix, adding a burst of color and flavor to every bite. In this article, we will guide you through the steps to create these irresistible brownies, share some serving suggestions, and provide additional tips to ensure your baking success.

Ingredients

Before you begin your baking adventure, gather the following ingredients:

• 1 cup (225g) unsalted butter
• 2 cups (400g) sugar
• 4 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup (125g) all-purpose flour
• 1 cup (90g) cocoa powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup (150g) crushed candy (such as hard gummies or chocolate bars)

Instructions

Creating these Candy Crush Brownies is a straightforward process. Follow these steps for the best results:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking pan to prevent sticking.
2. Melt the butter in a large bowl. Once melted, stir in the sugar until well combined.
3. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition to ensure a smooth batter. Stir in the vanilla extract.
4. Sift in the dry ingredients: flour, cocoa powder, and salt. Mix the ingredients until they are well combined and a smooth batter forms.
5. Fold in the crushed candy, reserving some for topping. This adds a delightful crunch and burst of flavor to the brownies.
6. Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle the remaining crushed candy on top for an attractive finish.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the brownies to cool before slicing.

Nutrition Facts

Understanding the nutritional content of your dessert can help you make informed dietary choices. Each serving of Candy Crush Brownies (makes 16 servings) contains:

• Calories: 250
• Fat: 12g
• Carbohydrates: 34g
• Protein: 3g
• Sugar: 20g

How to Serve

Candy Crush Brownies are incredibly versatile and can be served in a variety of ways to suit any occasion, making them an ideal dessert for both casual get-togethers and special celebrations. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your Candy Crush Brownies and impress your guests:

Classic Presentation

One of the most beloved ways to enjoy Candy Crush Brownies is by serving them warm. When you take them out of the oven, allow them to cool for just a few minutes, then cut them into generous squares. Placing a warm brownie on a plate and topping it with a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream creates a delightful contrast of temperatures that enhances the rich, fudgy texture of the brownies. The melting ice cream seeps into the brownie, creating a deliciously gooey experience that is sure to satisfy any sweet tooth. For an added touch, consider garnishing the plate with a dusting of powdered sugar or a few fresh berries for a pop of color.

Festive Flair

For special occasions or festive gatherings, consider dressing up your Candy Crush Brownies to make them extra appealing. After cutting the brownies into squares, you can enhance their visual appeal by drizzling them with melted chocolate or caramel sauce. A simple way to achieve this is to melt the toppings in the microwave and use a spoon or a squeeze bottle to create decorative patterns over the brownies. To make them even more festive, sprinkle additional crushed candy pieces on top, echoing the candy theme of the brownies and adding a delightful crunch. You can also use seasonal sprinkles or edible glitter to match the theme of the celebration, whether it’s a birthday party, holiday gathering, or a simple family dinner.

Casual Gathering

Candy Crush Brownies are perfect for casual gatherings, such as afternoon get-togethers with friends or family. For these occasions, consider serving the brownies alongside a variety of beverages. A strong cup of freshly brewed coffee can complement the chocolatey richness of the brownies, while a soothing cup of tea can provide a lighter contrast. Set up a small dessert station where guests can choose their beverages and add optional toppings like whipped cream, flavored syrups, or even a sprinkle of cinnamon for an extra kick. This interactive approach not only enhances the experience but also allows guests to personalize their treats to their taste.

Creative Pairings

To elevate your serving options further, think outside the box with some creative pairings. For an indulgent dessert platter, consider accompanying the brownies with an assortment of other sweets, such as mini cheesecakes, fruit tarts, or macarons. This assortment allows guests to sample a variety of flavors and textures, making it an exciting option for dessert lovers.

Additionally, for a more sophisticated presentation, you can serve the brownies in individual cupcake liners or dessert cups, which makes them easy to handle and adds an elegant touch. This approach is particularly effective for large gatherings, where guests may prefer to grab a treat on the go.

Seasonal Variations

Incorporating seasonal ingredients can elevate your Candy Crush Brownies to match the time of year. In the fall, consider adding a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg to the brownie batter for a warm, spiced flavor. Top the brownies with crushed candy corn or pumpkin spice-flavored candies for a festive touch. During the winter holidays, you can use peppermint-flavored candies or even drizzle the brownies with white chocolate for a winter wonderland effect. These seasonal variations not only enhance the flavor but also create a visually appealing dessert that celebrates the time of year.

By utilizing these diverse serving ideas, you can ensure that your Candy Crush Brownies are not only delicious but also visually stunning and suitable for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a formal event or enjoying a casual afternoon with friends, these brownies are sure to delight and impress.

Additional Tips for Perfect Candy Crush Brownies

To ensure your Candy Crush Brownies turn out perfectly every time, consider the following tips that will enhance both the flavor and the overall baking experience:

1. Candy Choice:

When selecting candy for your brownies, the options are virtually limitless, and experimenting with different types can lead to delightful discoveries. Here are a few suggestions:

• Gummy Candies: Hard gummies, such as gummy bears or sour worms, can infuse a chewy texture and a burst of fruity flavor into your brownies. Keep in mind that softer gummies may melt too much during baking, so opt for firmer varieties.
• Chocolate Bars: Incorporating chopped chocolate bars adds richness and a gooey texture. Try using a mix of milk, dark, and white chocolate for a contrasting flavor profile. You can also consider specialty bars with added ingredients like caramel or sea salt for an intriguing twist.
• Toffee Bits: Adding toffee bits can introduce a delightful crunch and a sweet, buttery flavor that complements the chocolate base of the brownies. This can create a satisfying textural contrast and enhance the overall indulgence of the dessert.
• Candy Mixes: For a fun and colorful twist, consider using a mix of various candies, such as M&M’s, Skittles, or even crushed-up cookies. This not only adds a playful aesthetic but also a variety of flavors in every bite.

2. Storage:

Proper storage is essential for maintaining the freshness and texture of your Candy Crush Brownies. Here are some detailed storage tips:

• At Room Temperature: Store leftover brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. Make sure to separate layers of brownies with parchment paper to prevent sticking and preserve their shape.
• Freezing: For longer storage, freeze your brownies for up to a month. To do this effectively, wrap each brownie individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. This prevents freezer burn and keeps them fresh. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply remove a brownie from the freezer and allow it to thaw at room temperature for 30 minutes to an hour before serving.
• Reheating: If you prefer your brownies warm, you can reheat them briefly in the microwave. Just 10-15 seconds should do the trick, bringing back that delicious, fudgy texture without drying them out.

3. Customization:

One of the best aspects of making Candy Crush Brownies is the opportunity to customize them to suit your taste preferences. Here are some ideas to enhance your brownies further:

• Nuts: Chopped nuts, such as walnuts, pecans, or almonds, can add a delightful crunch and nutty flavor. Toasting the nuts lightly before adding them to the batter can enhance their flavor and aroma.
• Chocolate Chips: In addition to candy, consider folding in chocolate chips to intensify the chocolate flavor. You can use semi-sweet, dark, or even white chocolate chips for added sweetness and texture.
• Peanut Butter Swirl: For an extra layer of flavor, swirl in some peanut butter before baking. Simply drop spoonfuls of peanut butter on top of the brownie batter and use a knife to create a marbled effect. The result is a rich, nutty flavor that pairs beautifully with chocolate.
• Frosting or Glaze: If you’re feeling indulgent, top your cooled brownies with a chocolate ganache or a simple buttercream frosting. This will add an extra layer of sweetness and richness, making your brownies even more decadent.
• Seasonal Flavors: Consider incorporating seasonal ingredients or flavors, such as pumpkin spice in the fall or peppermint extract during the winter holidays. These additions can make your Candy Crush Brownies festive and unique.

By following these tips, you can elevate your Candy Crush Brownies to new heights, ensuring they are a hit every time you bake them. One of the best ways to enhance the flavor is by using high-quality chocolate for the brownie base. Opt for premium cocoa powder or even melt your favorite chocolate bars into the batter for a richer taste. Additionally, you can experiment with different textures by adding nuts, like walnuts or pecans, which complement the crunch of the candy pieces.

Another tip is to slightly underbake the brownies to achieve that perfect fudgy consistency. Keep an eye on them in the oven, and when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with just a few moist crumbs, it’s time to take them out. Let them cool in the pan to allow the candies to firm up, preventing them from sinking to the bottom.

Enjoy the process of experimenting and customizing your brownies, and don’t forget to share your delicious creations with friends and family! A batch of these colorful and decadent brownies will surely be a crowd-pleaser, whether it’s for a special occasion or a casual treat. Get creative with your candy choices and enjoy the endless combinations of flavors and textures! Happy baking!

FAQs

Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted butter?

Yes, you can use salted butter, but consider reducing the added salt in the recipe to maintain a balanced flavor.

Can I substitute the sugar with a healthier alternative?

You can substitute sugar with alternatives like coconut sugar or a sugar substitute, but be mindful that it might alter the texture and flavor slightly.

What type of cocoa powder should I use?

For the best results, use unsweetened cocoa powder. Dutch-processed cocoa powder can also be used for a richer, more intense chocolate flavor.

How can I make my brownies extra fudgy?

For fudgier brownies, reduce the baking time slightly and check them frequently to ensure they don’t overbake.

Conclusion

Candy Crush Brownies are a delightful twist on a classic dessert that is sure to please chocolate lovers and candy enthusiasts alike. With their rich, chocolatey base and colorful candy pieces, they offer a unique flavor and texture experience. The combination of gooey, fudgy brownie layers with crunchy and chewy candy bits creates a treat that is both indulgent and fun. You can customize the candies based on your personal preferences, using favorites like M&Ms, Skittles, or even chopped-up chocolate bars. This flexibility allows for endless variations, making it easy to create a new version every time you bake.

Whether you’re serving them at a party, a family gathering, or simply enjoying them at home, these brownies are sure to be a hit. They’re perfect for adding a little extra excitement to your dessert table, and they pair beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an over-the-top indulgence.

Follow the simple instructions, experiment with different candies, and enjoy the sweet success of your baking creation. The vibrant colors and the burst of different textures in each bite will have everyone asking for the recipe. Don’t be afraid to get creative with your candy choices—it’s all about making these brownies your own! Happy baking!

Print