Welcome to our delicious corner of the baking world, where we transform simple treats into extraordinary delights! Today, we’re diving into the art of dressing up boxed brownies. Whether you’re a busy parent looking for a quick dessert or a beginner baker eager to impress, this guide will show you how to elevate your favorite boxed brownie mix into a gourmet experience. With just a few simple ingredients and some creative toppings, you can turn a classic chocolate treat into a decadent masterpiece that’s perfect for any occasion.
When it comes to baking boxed brownies, starting with a quality mix can make all the difference. My go-to choice is Ghirardelli Triple Chocolate, which offers a rich flavor that elevates any brownie recipe. To achieve that coveted gooey texture, it’s essential to use olive oil instead of vegetable oil. This simple switch enhances both flavor and texture, giving you delicious, fudgy brownies that will keep everyone coming back for more. You can also add an extra teaspoon of vanilla extract for a warm, inviting flavor that complements the chocolate.
Now that you have the perfect base, it’s time to get creative with your easy brownie toppings. If you enjoy a bit of crunch, toss in some chopped walnuts for added texture. For those who love coffee, a teaspoon of espresso powder will intensify the chocolate flavor beautifully. Feeling adventurous? You can mix in M&Ms or chocolate chunks for bursts of sweetness throughout the batter. These brownie mix hacks will transform your boxed brownies into something truly special!
Once your brownies are baked to perfection, it’s time to dress them up! Imagine serving warm brownies topped with a scoop of creamy ice cream, melting deliciously over the rich chocolate. You can also sprinkle them with colorful sprinkles for a fun, festive touch. Drizzling chocolate or caramel sauce over the top adds flavor and creates a beautiful presentation. For an indulgent finish, consider a dollop of whipped cream or a layer of your favorite frosting. These creative brownie recipes will turn a simple dessert into a showstopper!
In just a few simple steps, you can elevate boxed brownies from basic to extraordinary. By starting with a quality mix and making small tweaks to the batter and toppings, you’ll impress your family with this family-friendly brownie recipe. So, the next time you’re in the mood for a sweet treat, grab that Ghirardelli mix, some olive oil, and let your creativity shine. Happy baking!
Dressed Up Brownies Recipe
Ingredients:
- 1 box Ghirardelli Triple Chocolate brownie mix
- 1/3 cup olive oil
- 1/3 cup water
- 1 large egg
- Optional mix-ins: 1 teaspoon espresso powder, 1 teaspoon vanilla, 1/2 cup chopped walnuts, 1/2 cup chocolate chips, or M&Ms
Toppings (optional):
- Ice cream
- Sprinkles
- Chocolate sauce
- Caramel sauce
- Whipped cream
- Drizzle of olive oil
- Flaky sea salt
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 325°F, or according to your boxed-mix’s instructions. Grease a baking dish (9×9 inches works well) or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
- Mix the Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the Ghirardelli Triple Chocolate brownie mix, 1/3 cup of olive oil, 1/3 cup of water, and the egg. Add extra vanilla or espresso here if you’d like.
- Stir Until Combined: Using a whisk or spatula, mix the ingredients until just combined.
- Add Mix-Ins: If you’d like to add extra flavor and texture, fold in your choice of mix-ins like chopped walnuts, chocolate chips, or M&Ms. This step is optional but highly recommended for a fun twist!
- Pour into the Baking Dish: Pour the brownie batter into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake according to the boxed instructions, typically for about 35-40 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean.
- Cool and Dress Up: Once baked, remove the brownies from the oven and let them cool in the pan for at least 10-15 minutes. After cooling, cut them into squares.
- Add Toppings: Serve your dressed-up brownies with your favorite toppings. Try a scoop of ice cream, a drizzle of chocolate or caramel sauce, a sprinkle of colorful sprinkles, or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra indulgent treat!
These dressed-up brownies are sure to impress family and friends while being incredibly easy to make. Enjoy your delicious creations and happy baking!