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Birthday Brownies bars with sprinkles.
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Birthday Brownies from Brownie Mix

Easy birthday brownies from brownie mix topped with whipped chocolate ganache and rainbow sprinkles.
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Prep Time 45 minutes
Bake Time 25 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Servings 16
Calories 100kcal
Author Nora Rey
Cost $5-$6

Equipment

  • 8x8-inch pan
  • Hand mixer

Ingredients

Brownies

  • 1 box brownie mix (about 18 ounces)
  • Eggs room temperature & lightly beaten (see box for amount)
  • Water sub:milk, buttermilk, or coffee (see box for amount)
  • Neutral oil (see box for amount)
  • ½ teaspoon instant coffee or ¼ teaspoon espresso powder (optional)

Whipped ganache & sprinkles

  • ¾ cup heavy cream
  • 4 ounces dark chocolate (bittersweet or semisweet) chips or chopped
  • Rainbow sprinkles
US Customary - Metric

Instructions

  • Prepare the brownie batter according to the package directions. Spread evenly in an 8×8-inch pan.
  • Bake as directed on the box. Let brownies cool completely.
  • Heat the heavy whipping cream until hot (not boiling), either in the microwave or on the stovetop. Pour over the chocolate. Let sit for 2 minutes.
  • Stir until smooth. Refrigerate for about 30 minutes, just until slightly cooled.
  • Take ganache out of the fridge. Use a hand mixer on medium-high speed to whip for about 3 minutes, until fluffy and lighter in color.
  • Spread whipped ganache over cooled brownies. Decorate with rainbow sprinkles.
  • Let brownies chill for at least an hour before slicing.

Notes

 
  • Brownie mix: Use a standard 18-oz boxed brownie mix. Any brand works.
  • Water: Can be replaced with milk, buttermilk, or coffee.
  • Instant coffee: Optional, but helps boost the chocolate flavor.
 
Storage: Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Let sit at room temperature before serving.
 
Tips for Best Brownies
  • Bring eggs to room temperature, then lightly beat before adding.
  • Grease pan and line with parchment so brownies don’t stick.
  • Start checking with a toothpick 2 minutes early. A few moist crumbs = fudgy brownies. Chill brownies before cutting for cleaner slices.

Nutrition

Calories: 100kcal | Carbohydrates: 4g | Protein: 1g | Fat: 9g | Saturated Fat: 4g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 4g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 37mg | Sodium: 13mg | Potassium: 17mg | Sugar: 3g | Vitamin A: 194IU | Vitamin C: 1mg | Calcium: 10mg | Iron: 1mg