Halloween Brookies

This recipe for Halloween Brookies combines the best of both worlds: chewy brownies and soft sugar cookies. Perfect for Halloween gatherings or any festive occasion, these treats are not only easy to make but also visually appealing with cute ghost shapes and vibrant M&M’s. The rich flavors will delight your family and friends, making them the star of any dessert table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, you can whip up these Halloween Brookies in no time.
• Delicious Flavor Combination: The blend of brownie and cookie creates a mouth-watering treat that’s hard to resist.
• Fun Presentation: The ghost-shaped cookies add a playful touch, perfect for Halloween festivities.
• Versatile Treat: Great for parties, school events, or cozy nights in – these brookies suit any occasion.
• Kid-Friendly: Kids will love helping with this recipe, from mixing to decorating with M&M’s.

Tools and Preparation

To make your baking experience smooth and enjoyable, having the right tools is essential. Here’s what you’ll need to prepare your Halloween Brookies.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• 9 x 13 inch baking pan
• Measuring cups
• Rubber spatula
• Oven mitts

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A sturdy bowl allows you to thoroughly mix the brownie batter and cookie dough without spills.
• 9 x 13 inch baking pan: This size is perfect for even baking, ensuring your brookies cook uniformly.
• Measuring cups: Accurate measurements lead to consistent results in flavor and texture.
• Rubber spatula: Ideal for scraping down the sides of the bowl and ensuring no batter is wasted.

Ingredients

This recipe for Halloween Brookies is so simple to make, only takes a few ingredients and will have everyone in an uproar with how delicious they taste.

For the Brownie Base

• 1 box store bought brownie mix
• 1 package Halloween M&M’s

For the Cookie Topping

• 1 package Pillsbury ghost shaped sugar cookie dough

How to Make Halloween Brookies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350 ℉. This ensures that your brownies bake evenly.

Step 2: Prepare Brownie Mix

In a mixing bowl, prepare the brownie mix according to the package instructions.

Step 3: Add M&M’s

Mix in ¼ cup of Halloween M&M’s into the brownie batter. This adds color and sweetness.

Step 4: Pour into Baking Pan

Pour the brownie mixture into a greased 9 x 13 inch pan. Use a rubber spatula to spread it evenly.

Step 5: Add Toppings

Sprinkle more Halloween M&M’s on top of the brownie layer for extra crunch.

Step 6: Place Cookie Dough

Place 15 pieces of Pillsbury ghost-shaped sugar cookie dough evenly over the brownie mixture.

Step 7: Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for about 28-30 minutes. Check with a toothpick; it should come out with just a few crumbs attached when done.

Now you’re ready to enjoy your delicious Halloween Brookies!

How to Serve Halloween Brookies

Halloween Brookies are perfect for any spooky gathering. Their combination of brownie and cookie makes them a fun treat for both kids and adults. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your dessert experience.

Individual Portions

• Use cupcake liners to serve each brookie individually, making them easy to grab and enjoy at parties.

With Ice Cream

• Pair warm Halloween Brookies with a scoop of vanilla or pumpkin spice ice cream for a delightful contrast of flavors and temperatures.

Drizzled with Chocolate

• Add a drizzle of melted chocolate on top for an extra touch of sweetness and a beautiful presentation.

Topped with Whipped Cream

• Serve each brookie with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of Halloween-themed sprinkles for added festivity.

How to Perfect Halloween Brookies

Making Halloween Brookies is simple, but a few tips can elevate your baking game. Follow these pointers to ensure your treats turn out perfectly every time.

• Use fresh ingredients – Ensure that your brownie mix and sugar cookie dough are within their expiration dates for the best flavor.
• Don’t overmix – Mix the brownie batter just until combined to keep the texture fudgy and moist.
• Check doneness carefully – Insert a toothpick in the center; it should come out with just a few crumbs for optimal gooeyness.
• Cool before cutting – Allow the brookies to cool completely before slicing to prevent them from falling apart.
• Store properly – Keep leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days or freeze for longer storage.
• Experiment with toppings – Try adding nuts, different types of M&M’s, or even Halloween sprinkles for variety.

Best Side Dishes for Halloween Brookies

When serving Halloween Brookies, consider complementary side dishes that will enhance your dessert spread. Here’s a list of tasty options.

1. Pumpkin Soup – A warm bowl of pumpkin soup adds a savory touch that balances the sweetness of brookies.
2. Cheesy Garlic Bread – This garlic-infused treat offers bold flavor contrast, making it an inviting appetizer alongside desserts.
3. Spooky Veggie Platter – Arrange vegetables like carrots and celery in ghost shapes, served with ranch dip for healthy snacking.
4. Caramel Apples – These classic fall treats bring an enjoyable crunch that pairs well with soft brookies.
5. Cinnamon Sugar Pretzels – The sweetness of these pretzels complements the rich flavors of Halloween Brookies wonderfully.
6. Candy Corn Salad – A colorful salad featuring candy corn adds festive flair while providing a sweet crunch.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Halloween Brookies can be fun and easy, but a few common mistakes can ruin your treats.

• Skipping the Preheating: Not preheating your oven can lead to uneven baking. Always preheat to ensure your brookies cook evenly.
• Overmixing the Brownie Batter: Mixing too much can make your brownies tough. Stir just until combined for a fudgy texture.
• Ignoring Baking Time: Baking them too long can dry out the brookies. Check for doneness a few minutes before the recommended time.
• Not Greasing the Pan: Failing to grease your pan may cause sticking. Use non-stick spray or butter to avoid this issue.
• Using Cold Ingredients: Cold ingredients can affect the batter consistency. Let your eggs and cookie dough sit at room temperature before mixing.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.

Freezing Halloween Brookies

• Wrap individual pieces tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months without losing flavor.

Reheating Halloween Brookies

• Oven: Preheat to 350 ℉ and heat for about 10 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat for 15-20 seconds for a quick warm-up, but watch closely to avoid overheating.
• Stovetop: Place in a skillet over low heat, cover with a lid, and warm slowly for 5-7 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are Halloween Brookies?

Halloween Brookies combine brownies and cookies into one delightful dessert. They’re perfect for fall festivities with their fun designs!

How do I customize my Halloween Brookies?

You can add different candies or nuts based on preference. Try adding pumpkin spice for an autumn twist!

Can I use homemade brownie mix instead of store-bought?

Absolutely! Just ensure you prepare it according to your recipe before mixing in M&M’s.

How do I store leftover Halloween Brookies?

Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature or refrigerate them if you prefer.

Final Thoughts

Halloween Brookies are a delightful treat that combines delicious brownie flavors with festive cookie fun. They’re perfect for parties or family gatherings and allow plenty of room for customization. Try adding your favorite candies or seasonal spices to make them uniquely yours!