Introduction to hot chocolate brownies with marshmallow frosting
A warm, gooey brownie under a soft marshmallow topping is about as cozy as dessert gets on a cold day. The brownie is deep and chocolatey, and the marshmallows melt into it as you eat. It is an easy recipe for when you want something homemade and have little time.
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Dark chocolate and sweet marshmallow balance each other, and people tend to go back for seconds. Prep takes 15 minutes and the brownies bake for 25 to 30 minutes, so you can make a batch on a weeknight and still have the evening free. Share them, or keep the pan for yourself.
Key ingredients for hot chocolate brownies with marshmallow frosting
Unsalted butter (1 cup)
Butter keeps the brownie base moist and tender. Using unsalted lets you control the salt, which keeps the chocolate flavor in front.
Dark chocolate chips (1 cup)
The chips give the brownies their deep chocolate flavor. They melt smoothly into the batter and make the texture fudgy.
Granulated sugar (2 cups)
Sugar sweetens the brownies and makes them chewy. It also forms the thin, crisp top crust over the soft middle.
Eggs (4 large)
Eggs bind the batter and add moisture. They also keep the brownies from turning too dense.
Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon)
Vanilla adds a warm, aromatic note that rounds out the chocolate.
All-purpose flour (1 cup)
Flour holds the brownies together without making them cakey.
Cocoa powder (1 cup)
Cocoa deepens the chocolate flavor and gives the brownies their dark color.
Baking powder (1 teaspoon)
A little baking powder lets the brownies rise slightly so they are lighter.
Salt (1/2 teaspoon)
Salt balances the sugar and makes the chocolate taste richer.
Mini marshmallows (2 cups)
The marshmallows go on top, where they melt into a soft, fluffy layer that contrasts with the fudgy brownie.
Powdered sugar (1 cup)
Powdered sugar is the base of the marshmallow frosting. It makes the frosting smooth and gives it a consistency you can drizzle.
Milk (1/4 cup)
Milk makes the frosting creamy and loose enough to drizzle, and it brings the frosting ingredients together.
Why you’ll love this recipe
These brownies are rich chocolate under a sweet, fluffy topping, and the whole recipe takes 45 minutes from start to finish.
Dark chocolate and butter give a fudgy texture, and the marshmallow frosting makes it playful. They work for a party or a quiet night in, and leftovers keep well, so you have something sweet for the week ahead.
The ingredient list is short and simple, and the finished pan looks and tastes like something from a good bakery.
Variations of hot chocolate brownies with marshmallow frosting
Add some crunch
Fold walnuts or pecans into the batter for crunch against the fudgy middle.
Flavor infusions
Add a teaspoon of instant coffee granules to the batter for a mocha version, or swap the vanilla extract for almond extract.
Alternative frostings
Chocolate ganache or cream cheese frosting can replace the marshmallow frosting.
Seasonal variations
In the fall, a pinch of cinnamon or pumpkin spice adds warmth. In summer, top the brownies with fresh berries.
Cooking tips and notes
Melting chocolate and butter
Melt the dark chocolate chips and butter together gently over medium heat, stirring the whole time so the chocolate doesn’t seize. Let the mixture cool slightly before you add the sugar and eggs, and the batter will stay smooth.
Testing for doneness
Insert a toothpick in the center. A few moist crumbs mean the brownies are fudgy and not overbaked. They keep firming up as they cool.
Frosting tips
Whisk the powdered sugar and milk until completely smooth. For a thicker frosting, add more powdered sugar a little at a time. Drizzle it over the brownies while they are warm so it melts in slightly.
Serving suggestions for hot chocolate brownies with marshmallow frosting
Pair with ice cream
Serve the brownies warm with a scoop of vanilla or mint ice cream. The cold ice cream melts into the warm brownie.
Drizzle with caramel
Caramel sauce drizzled over the top just before serving adds a buttery flavor that goes with both the chocolate and the marshmallow.
Add fresh berries
Fresh raspberries or strawberries add color, and their tartness cuts the sweetness.
Time breakdown for hot chocolate brownies with marshmallow frosting
Preparation
15 minutes That covers gathering the ingredients and making the batter.
Cooking/baking
30 minutes Bake the brownies for 25 to 30 minutes, until fudgy.
Total
45 minutes From the first bowl to a finished pan of brownies.
Efficiency tip
Make the marshmallow frosting while the brownies bake, then drizzle it on as soon as they come out of the oven.
Nutritional facts for hot chocolate brownies with marshmallow frosting
One serving is one brownie, with approximately 250 calories. Each has 35 grams of sugar, 12 grams of fat, 3 grams of protein, 35 grams of carbohydrates and 2 grams of fiber.
Frequently asked questions
Can I use different types of chocolate for these brownies?
Yes. A mix of dark and semi-sweet chocolate in place of the dark chocolate chips lets you adjust the sweetness and intensity.
How should I store hot chocolate brownies with marshmallow frosting?
Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
Can I make these brownies ahead of time?
Yes. Bake them, let them cool completely, and frost them on the day you serve them so the topping is fresh and fluffy.
What can I serve with hot chocolate brownies?
Vanilla ice cream, a drizzle of caramel sauce or a handful of fresh berries.
Conclusion to hot chocolate brownies with marshmallow frosting
Fudgy brownies, a fluffy marshmallow topping and 45 minutes from prep to plate. Preheat the oven, make the frosting while they bake, and serve them warm.
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Written and edited by The Foodie Yummy Kitchen Team
The Foodie Yummy Kitchen Team writes and edits the recipes on Foodie Yummy: classic American potluck salads, holiday sides and easy comfort food, with a few low-carb options. Every recipe lists exact quantities, numbered steps and a printable recipe card, plus notes on swaps, storage and make-ahead timing. Spot a problem with a recipe? Tell us through the contact page and we will correct it. About us
Hot Chocolate Brownies with Marshmallow Frosting
Ingredients
Instructions
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a baking pan.
Melt the butter and dark chocolate chips together in a saucepan over medium heat.
Remove from heat and stir in sugar, eggs, and vanilla until well blended.
Mix in flour, cocoa, baking powder, and salt until just combined.
Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and bake for 25-30 minutes.
While brownies are baking, prepare the marshmallow frosting by beating together the powdered sugar and milk.
Once brownies are done, remove from the oven and top with mini marshmallows.
Drizzle the frosting over the top and serve.
Notes
For a richer flavor, use a mix of dark and semi-sweet chocolate.
Store brownies in an airtight container for up to a week.
Nutrition
| Serving Size | 1 brownie |
|---|---|
| Calories | 250 calories |
| Sugar Content | 35g |
| Sodium Content | 150mg |
| Fat Content | 12g |
| Saturated Fat Content | 7g |
| Unsaturated Fat Content | 3g |
| Trans Fat Content | 0g |
| Carbohydrate Content | 35g |
| Fiber Content | 2g |
| Protein Content | 3g |
| Cholesterol Content | 50mg |