Marshmallow Chocolate Brownies: The Ultimate Gooey Dessert Recipe

Marshmallow chocolate brownies: just the name alone conjures up images of fudgy, decadent goodness, doesn’t it? But these aren’t just any brownies; they’re a symphony of textures and flavors that will have you reaching for seconds (and maybe thirds!). Imagine sinking your teeth into a rich, chocolatey brownie, only to be met with the gooey, sweet surprise of melted marshmallows. It’s a delightful experience that elevates the humble brownie to a whole new level of indulgence.

While the exact origins of adding marshmallows to brownies are somewhat shrouded in mystery, the combination feels inherently American, doesn’t it? Brownies themselves emerged in the late 19th century, and the addition of marshmallows likely followed as cooks experimented with ways to enhance this already beloved treat. The pairing speaks to our love of sweet and comforting flavors, a nostalgic nod to childhood campfires and s’mores.

People adore marshmallow chocolate brownies for a multitude of reasons. The contrasting textures are a major draw – the dense, fudgy brownie against the soft, pillowy marshmallow creates a truly satisfying mouthfeel. Then there’s the taste: the intense chocolate perfectly complements the sugary sweetness of the marshmallows. And let’s not forget the visual appeal! Those melted marshmallows create a beautiful, swirled topping that’s as pleasing to the eye as it is to the palate. Plus, they’re relatively easy to make, making them a perfect treat for both experienced bakers and kitchen novices alike. Get ready to experience brownie bliss!

Ingredients:

• For the Brownies:
• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, melted
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
• 4 large eggs
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
• For the Marshmallow Swirl:
• 7 ounces marshmallow fluff
• 2 tablespoons milk
• Optional Toppings:
• Extra chocolate chips
• Chopped nuts (walnuts, pecans, etc.)
• Sea salt flakes

Preparing the Brownie Batter

1. Melt the Butter: Start by melting the butter in a large, microwave-safe bowl. I usually do this in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, to prevent it from splattering everywhere. You can also melt it in a saucepan over low heat if you prefer. Make sure it’s completely melted but not boiling hot.
2. Combine Wet Ingredients: Once the butter is melted, whisk in the granulated sugar until well combined. The mixture should be smooth and glossy. This step is crucial for achieving that fudgy texture we all love in brownies.
3. Add Cocoa Powder, Salt, and Baking Powder: Now, add the unsweetened cocoa powder, salt, and baking powder to the butter and sugar mixture. Whisk everything together until it’s well incorporated. Don’t worry if it looks a little dry at this point; the eggs will bring it all together.
4. Incorporate Vanilla Extract: Stir in the vanilla extract. The vanilla enhances the chocolate flavor and adds a lovely aroma to the brownies.
5. Add Eggs One at a Time: Crack in the eggs one at a time, whisking well after each addition. This is important because it helps to emulsify the batter and create a smooth, even texture. Over-mixing at this stage can lead to tough brownies, so just mix until each egg is fully incorporated.
6. Gently Fold in Flour: Gradually add the all-purpose flour to the wet ingredients, folding it in gently with a spatula. Be careful not to overmix; just mix until the flour disappears. Overmixing develops the gluten in the flour, which can result in cakey brownies instead of fudgy ones.
7. Stir in Chocolate Chips: Finally, stir in the semi-sweet chocolate chips. This adds extra chocolatey goodness and creates those delightful pockets of melted chocolate in every bite.

Preparing the Marshmallow Swirl

1. Combine Marshmallow Fluff and Milk: In a small, microwave-safe bowl, combine the marshmallow fluff and milk.
2. Microwave Briefly: Microwave the mixture for about 15-20 seconds, or until the marshmallow fluff is slightly melted and easier to work with. Be careful not to overheat it, as it can become very sticky and difficult to handle.
3. Stir Until Smooth: Stir the marshmallow fluff and milk until smooth and creamy. This will create the perfect consistency for swirling into the brownie batter.

Assembling and Baking the Brownies

1. Prepare the Baking Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan. You can also line the pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides, for easy removal of the brownies after baking.
2. Pour Brownie Batter into Pan: Pour the brownie batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly with a spatula.
3. Dollop Marshmallow Mixture: Drop spoonfuls of the marshmallow mixture over the brownie batter.
4. Create the Swirl: Use a knife or skewer to gently swirl the marshmallow mixture into the brownie batter. Be careful not to overmix, as you want to maintain distinct swirls of marshmallow.
5. Add Optional Toppings: If desired, sprinkle extra chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or sea salt flakes over the top of the brownies.
6. Bake the Brownies: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with moist crumbs attached. The baking time may vary depending on your oven, so keep an eye on them.
7. Cool Completely: Remove the brownies from the oven and let them cool completely in the pan before cutting into squares. This is important because the brownies will continue to set as they cool. If you try to cut them while they’re still warm, they may be too gooey and fall apart.
8. Cut and Serve: Once the brownies are completely cool, cut them into squares and serve. Enjoy!

Tips for Perfect Marshmallow Chocolate Brownies

• Use High-Quality Ingredients: Using high-quality ingredients, especially cocoa powder and chocolate chips, will make a big difference in the flavor of your brownies.
• Don’t Overbake: Overbaking is the enemy of fudgy brownies. Keep a close eye on them and remove them from the oven when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with moist crumbs attached.
• Let Them Cool Completely: As mentioned earlier, letting the brownies cool completely before cutting is crucial for achieving the perfect texture.
• Experiment with Toppings: Feel free to experiment with different toppings to customize your brownies. Some other great options include crushed Oreos, peanut butter chips, or caramel sauce.
• Storage: Store leftover brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. You can also freeze them for longer storage.

Troubleshooting

Why are my brownies cakey?

Cakey brownies are usually the result of overmixing the batter or using too much flour. Be sure to gently fold in the flour until just combined, and measure your ingredients accurately.

Why are my brownies too gooey?

Gooey brownies can be caused by underbaking or using too much butter. Make sure to bake them for the recommended time and check for doneness with a toothpick. Also, ensure you’re using the correct amount of butter in the recipe.

Why is my marshmallow swirl disappearing?

If your marshmallow swirl is disappearing into the brownie batter, it could be because the marshmallow mixture is too thin or the brownie batter is too warm. Make sure to microwave the marshmallow fluff and milk just until slightly melted, and let the brownie batter cool slightly before adding the marshmallow swirl.

Conclusion:

This isn’t just another brownie recipe; it’s an experience. The fudgy, intensely chocolatey base, coupled with the gooey, toasted marshmallow topping, creates a symphony of textures and flavors that will have everyone begging for more. Seriously, prepare to be crowned the dessert champion! These marshmallow chocolate brownies are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, perfect for everything from casual weeknight treats to special occasion celebrations.

But why is this recipe a must-try? It’s simple: it elevates the classic brownie to a whole new level. The marshmallows aren’t just sprinkled on top; they’re strategically placed to create pockets of molten sweetness that perfectly complement the rich, dark chocolate. The slight char on the marshmallows adds a subtle smoky note that balances the sweetness beautifully. Plus, the recipe is surprisingly easy to follow, even for novice bakers. You don’t need any fancy equipment or complicated techniques to achieve brownie perfection.

Looking for serving suggestions? These brownies are divine served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The contrast between the warm brownie and the cold ice cream is simply irresistible. A drizzle of salted caramel sauce would also be a fantastic addition, adding another layer of sweetness and complexity. For a more sophisticated presentation, dust the brownies with cocoa powder or a light coating of powdered sugar.

And if you’re feeling adventurous, there are plenty of variations you can try. Add a handful of chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter for a nutty crunch. Swirl in some peanut butter for a decadent peanut butter and chocolate combination. Or, for a truly indulgent treat, add a layer of chocolate ganache on top of the marshmallows before baking. You could even experiment with different flavors of marshmallows, like strawberry or vanilla bean, to create your own unique twist. Consider adding a pinch of sea salt to the batter to enhance the chocolate flavor. Another great idea is to use different types of chocolate, such as milk chocolate or white chocolate, to create a different flavor profile. Don’t be afraid to get creative and experiment with different ingredients to find your perfect marshmallow chocolate brownies recipe.

These brownies are also incredibly versatile. They’re perfect for potlucks, bake sales, or even as a homemade gift. Package them in a pretty box with a ribbon, and you’ve got a thoughtful and delicious present that anyone would appreciate. They also freeze well, so you can make a batch ahead of time and have them on hand whenever you need a sweet treat. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store them in the freezer for up to three months. When you’re ready to eat them, simply thaw them at room temperature or warm them up in the microwave for a few seconds.

I truly believe that this recipe will become a staple in your baking repertoire. It’s easy, delicious, and always a hit. So, what are you waiting for? Preheat your oven, gather your ingredients, and get ready to bake the best marshmallow chocolate brownies you’ve ever tasted!

I’m so excited for you to try this recipe! Once you do, please come back and share your experience in the comments below. I’d love to hear what you think and see any variations you come up with. Happy baking! Let me know if you have any questions, and I’ll do my best to answer them. I can’t wait to see your creations!