Tired of fighting over the corner pieces of a brownie pan? What if every brownie had that perfect crispy edge and a wonderfully chewy center? Well, get ready to discover your new favorite hack: Easy Brownie Cupcakes! This brilliant recipe takes the simplicity of a boxed brownie mix and transforms it into individual, perfectly portioned brownie cupcakes, ensuring everyone gets that coveted crispy outside and chewy inside. It’s a quick, fun, and utterly delicious way to enjoy your brownies, perfect for parties, lunchboxes, or just when a brownie craving strikes!
Why I Love This Recipe
This recipe is pure genius in its simplicity and ingenious solution to a common brownie dilemma. What I love most is how it takes the convenience of a boxed brownie mix and elevates it into something special. Every single “brownie cupcake” comes out with that sought-after crispy edge and a perfectly chewy, fudgy interior. No more compromising or fighting over who gets the best piece!
It’s incredibly easy for any baker, requiring minimal effort but delivering maximum satisfaction. The individual portions are fantastic for parties, bake sales, or just for portion control (though that might be a challenge once you taste them!). Plus, they cook relatively quickly, meaning you can have fresh, warm brownie goodness in no time. It’s a foolproof method for consistently perfect brownies every single time.
Ingredients:
- 2 boxes brownie mix (standard size, typically 18.3 oz each)
- All ingredients called for on the brownie mix boxes (usually oil, water, and eggs)
- 1 extra egg (beyond what the box mix calls for)
- Nonstick cooking spray (or cupcake liners)
Swaps and Notes
- Brownie Mix: Use your favorite brand and type of brownie mix (fudgy, chewy, dark chocolate, etc.). The beauty of this recipe is its adaptability to any mix.
- Extra Egg: Adding an extra egg to the combined batter from two boxes helps make the brownie cupcakes a bit chewier and fudgier.
- Nonstick Spray: Generously spraying the muffin pans is crucial for easy removal. You can also use paper cupcake liners for easier cleanup, but the edges might not be quite as crispy.
- Add-ins (Optional): Feel free to mix in chocolate chips, chopped nuts (like walnuts or pecans), sprinkles, or even chopped candies into the brownie batter for extra customization before baking.
- Frosting (Optional): While delicious plain, these brownie cupcakes are fantastic with a swirl of your favorite frosting (like a simple chocolate buttercream or cream cheese frosting) once cooled.
Directions:
Making these perfect brownie cupcakes is incredibly simple and efficient.
- Prepare Pans: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Generously spray 2 standard 12-cup muffin pans (or 24 individual muffin cups) very well with nonstick cooking spray. Ensure every cup is thoroughly coated to help the brownie cupcakes pop right out.
- Prepare Brownie Batter: In a large mixing bowl, combine the contents of 2 boxes of brownie mix. Follow the package directions for both boxes, adding the required oil and water. For the eggs, add the total number specified on both boxes plus one extra egg. (For example, if each box calls for 2 eggs, you’d add 2+2+1 = 5 eggs total). Beat the batter until it’s smooth and well combined, following the package instructions for mixing time.
- Fill Muffin Cups: Divide the brownie batter evenly among the prepared muffin cups, filling each about 2/3 to 3/4 full.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. The tops should look set, and a toothpick inserted into the center of a brownie cupcake should come out with moist crumbs, but not wet batter. Be careful not to overbake, as that can lead to dry brownies.
- Cool & Remove: Remove the muffin pans from the oven. Let the brownie cupcakes cool in the pans for 5 minutesbefore attempting to remove them. This allows them to firm up slightly. After 5 minutes, use the tip of a butter knife or a small offset spatula to carefully loosen the edges of each brownie cupcake, and they’ll pop right out.
- Cool Completely: Transfer the brownie cupcakes to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Serve: Enjoy your Easy Brownie Cupcakes! They’re delicious plain, or you can frost them once completely cooled.
Pro Tip:
The key to easy removal and those crispy edges is to generously spray your muffin pans with nonstick cooking spray. Don’t be shy! Also, resist the urge to overbake. Brownies continue to cook slightly as they cool, so removing them when they still look a little soft in the center will ensure a perfectly chewy, fudgy texture.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
These Easy Brownie Cupcakes are a versatile treat perfect for any occasion.
- Snack Time: Enjoy them as a quick, satisfying snack with a glass of milk or a cup of coffee.
- Dessert: Serve plain, or for extra decadence, top with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, a dollop of whipped cream, or a drizzle of chocolate sauce.
- Parties & Potlucks: Their individual portions make them perfect for easy serving at gatherings.
- Lunchbox Treat: A delightful surprise to pack in lunchboxes.
- Other Brownie Delights: If you’re a true brownie aficionado, you might also enjoy my The Best Peanut Butter Brownies I’ve Ever Made (and I’ve Made a Lot) for another fantastic twist.
Storage and Leftover Tips
These brownie cupcakes store well, making them great for batch baking.
- Storage: Store cooled brownie cupcakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days.
- Freezing: Cooled brownie cupcakes (unfrosted) can be frozen. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to flash freeze for about 30 minutes, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 2-3 months. Thaw at room temperature or gently warm in the microwave.
- If Frosted: If frosted, store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, or freeze following instructions for frosted cakes.
More Recipes You Will Love
If you loved the easy, chocolatey, and comforting nature of these brownie cupcakes, you’ll definitely want to explore some of these other fantastic baking and sweet treat recipes:
- For a truly indulgent and unique treat, check out These Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Brownie Bombs Are My Favorite Sweet Obsession.
- If you’re a fan of classic cookies, my These Chocolate Chip Cookie Bites Are My Favorite Little Treat to Bake Anytime are a must-try.
- For a simple, comforting bake that uses ripe fruit, don’t miss This Chocolate Chip Banana Bread Is My Favorite Way to Use Up Overripe Bananas.
- And if you’re craving a no-bake delight, consider This Edible Cookie Dough Is My Favorite No-Bake Treat for Late Night Cravings.
Final Thoughts
These Easy Brownie Cupcakes are a revelation for anyone who loves that perfect brownie edge. They’re quick, simple, and deliver consistently delicious results, making every bite a crispy-chewy dream. Say goodbye to pan fights and hello to perfectly portioned brownie bliss! Go ahead, whip up a batch, and enjoy every delightful morsel.
What’s your favorite way to customize a boxed brownie mix? Share your tips and ideas in the comments below! And don’t forget to follow Chef Maniac for more delicious and heartwarming recipes that bring joy to your kitchen.
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