As the air turns crisp and the leaves paint a tapestry of orange and gold, I find myself craving sweets that embrace the spirit of Halloween. Enter Halloween Brookies—a delightful fusion of chewy brownies and soft cookies that will have everyone squealing with delight. I stumbled upon this enchanting treat during a weekend baking spree when I was determined to find a new dessert that could bring a dash of whimsy to my gatherings.
With just a handful of simple ingredients and minimal fuss, these brookies make baking feel like a breeze, all while delivering decadent flavor and festive charm. Imagine biting into a rich layer of fudgy brownie, crowned with playful ghost-shaped cookies and colorful Halloween M&Ms. It’s an irresistible combination that’s sure to enchant both kids and adults alike! Ready to impress your friends and family with an easy, crowd-pleasing dessert? Let’s dive into the magic of Halloween Brookies!
Why are Halloween Brookies a must-try?
Simplicity at Its Best: This recipe’s easy-to-follow steps make it perfect for both novice and seasoned bakers.
Bursting with Flavor: The rich chocolatey brownies and soft cookies create an irresistible taste explosion.
Festive Fun: With vibrant Halloween M&Ms and cute ghost-shaped cookies, they bring joy to any celebration.
Crowd-Pleasing Delight: Perfectly suited for gatherings, everyone is sure to enjoy these enchanting treats.
Make-Ahead Convenience: Bake a few days in advance and store them for stress-free entertaining!
Halloween Brookies Ingredients
• Get ready for a spook-tacular baking adventure!
For the Brownie Base
- Brownie Mix – The heart of this treat, providing a rich and fudgy foundation; feel free to swap it with your favorite homemade version for a personal touch!
- Halloween M&Ms – Add a delightful crunch and playful color; opt for regular M&Ms if you want something a bit more classic.
For the Cookie Topping
- Pillsbury Ghost-Shaped Sugar Cookie Dough – These adorable cookies bring festive spirit and a soft texture; you can substitute with any Halloween-themed dough available for extra fun!
Enjoy these Halloween Brookies that are sure to be the star of your seasonal dessert table!
How to Make Halloween Brookies
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Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your brookies bake evenly and achieve that perfect texture.
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Prepare the brownie mix according to the package instructions. Be careful not to over-mix, as this can lead to a tougher brownie texture.
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Stir in ¼ cup of Halloween M&Ms into the brownie batter. This adds a pop of color and delightful crunch in every bite!
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Pour the brownie batter into a greased 9×13 inch baking pan, spreading it evenly. Make sure the mix reaches all corners for uniform baking.
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Place the ghost-shaped cookies evenly spaced atop the brownie batter. This will create a charming presentation that’s sure to impress!
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Bake for 28-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. Avoid over-baking for that fudgy center!
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Allow the brookies to cool completely before slicing for clean cuts. Patience here will pay off in beautifully presented treats!
Optional: Add extra M&Ms on top after baking if they’re melted for an extra festive touch.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Halloween Brookies?
Creating a festive atmosphere for your Halloween gathering is just as delightful as the treats themselves!
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Spooky Milkshakes: Blend ice cream with chocolate syrup and ghost-shaped marshmallows to keep the dessert theme flowing. These drinks add a fun twist that kids adore!
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Pumpkin Spice Latte: The cozy flavors of pumpkin and spice in this warm drink beautifully complement the chocolatey brookies. Perfect for warming up chilly October evenings.
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Ghostly Fruit Platter: Arrange bananas, grapes, and strawberries in a fun ghost formation. Fresh fruit adds a vibrant, healthful touch to balance the sweetness of the brookies!
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Witch’s Brew Punch: Mix up a fizzy punch using lemon-lime soda and black cherry juice for a dramatic, refreshing drink that plays off the spooky theme.
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Candy Corn Cupcakes: These festive cupcakes bring a playful burst of flavor to the table while echoing the classic Halloween candy theme.
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Chocolate-Covered Pretzels: The sweet-salty contrast pairs well with the rich brookies and adds an appealing crunch. Dip them in colorful sprinkles for a fun look!
How to Store and Freeze Halloween Brookies
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Room Temperature: Store the Halloween Brookies in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain their delicious chewy texture.
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Fridge: If you want to prolong freshness, keep the brookies in the refrigerator for up to a week. Make sure they’re in an airtight container to prevent dryness.
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Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the brookies for up to 3 months. Wrap them individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag to avoid freezer burn.
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Reheating: To enjoy them warm again, simply pop the brookies in the microwave for a few seconds or warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes. Enjoy that fresh-baked taste anytime!
Make Ahead Options
These Halloween Brookies are a fantastic choice for busy home cooks looking to save time during the spooky season! You can prepare the brownie base up to 24 hours in advance; simply mix the brownie batter, stir in the M&Ms, and refrigerate it in an airtight container. Meanwhile, you can shape the ghost cookies and store them separately. When you’re ready to bake, pour the chilled brownie batter into the pan, place the cookies on top, and pop it in the oven as directed. This approach ensures that your treats taste just as delicious, while also streamlining your holiday baking plans!
Halloween Brookies Variations
Feel free to get creative with these enchanting treats and make them your own!
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Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free brownie mix and cookie dough for a tasty alternative that everyone can enjoy.
Swap in your favorite gluten-free treats for a festive bite that doesn’t compromise on flavor. -
Chocolate Chunk Bliss: Replace M&Ms with chocolate chunks or chips for a richer chocolate experience.
This twist introduces an extra gooey goodness that chocolate lovers will adore! -
Nutty Addition: Stir in chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans into the brownie batter for added texture and flavor.
The crunch of nuts complements the soft cookies beautifully, creating an unforgettable bite. -
Yummy Peppermint: Add crushed peppermint candy or peppermint extract to the brownie batter for a refreshing twist.
It’s like Halloween meets winter wonderland, bringing a zing of festive cheer! -
S’mores Style: Substitute ghost cookies with graham cracker cookie dough and add mini marshmallows on top.
This decadent twist transforms your brookies into a campfire-inspired delight perfect for outdoor gatherings! -
Bold Spices: Introduce pumpkin spice or cinnamon into the cookie dough for a lovely warm flavor that sings fall.
This cozy addition will wrap you in warmth with every bite, truly embodying the spirit of the season. -
Fruit Fun: Incorporate dried fruit like cranberries or raisins for a touch of natural sweetness.
The little bursts of flavor will make your brookies feel even more festive! -
Double Chocolate Delight: Use a dark chocolate brownie mix to intensify the chocolate flavor and pair it with white chocolate cookies.
Rich and creamy, this variation is sure to dazzle chocolate enthusiasts!
Expert Tips for Halloween Brookies
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Avoid Over-Mixing: Be gentle with the brownie batter; over-mixing can result in a dense, tough texture instead of the desired chewiness.
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Perfect Slicing: Use a plastic knife to slice the brookies cleanly, preventing the soft cookie top from crumbling or tearing.
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Keep an Eye on Baking: Check for doneness a few minutes before the timer goes off; you want moist crumbs, not a dry center, for perfect Halloween Brookies.
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Extra Festive Touch: Toss additional M&Ms on top right after baking if they’ve melted into the batter, creating a gorgeous color display.
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Storage Tips: Allow brookies to cool completely before storing them in an airtight container to keep them fresh for enjoying later!
Halloween Brookies Recipe FAQs
How do I select the right brownie mix?
Absolutely! For the best brownies, look for a mix that has a rich chocolate flavor and minimal added ingredients. I often choose ones that are moist without any added artificial flavors. Gourmet or organic options can enhance the taste, but you can also use your favorite homemade brownie recipe for a personal touch!
How should I store leftover Halloween Brookies?
Very easy! Store your Halloween Brookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you plan to keep them longer, the refrigerator can extend their freshness up to a week. Just ensure they’re sealed tightly to avoid drying out!
Can I freeze Halloween Brookies, and if so, how?
Absolutely! To freeze your Halloween Brookies, wrap each individual piece tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag. This prevents freezer burn and keeps their flavor intact. They can be stored for up to 3 months. To enjoy, thaw them at room temperature or warm in the microwave for a delightful treat!
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What should I do if my brookies come out dry?
Oh no! If your Halloween Brookies turn out dry, it’s often due to overbaking. Next time, try checking them a few minutes before the timer goes off, and remember to use a toothpick for testing doneness. You want a few moist crumbs, not a clean pick! If they’re dry, serving them with a scoop of ice cream or whipped cream can help add moisture and richness.
Are these brookies safe for people with food allergies?
While they’re packed with delightful treats, it’s essential to consider your guests’ allergies. The brownie mix and cookie dough may contain allergens like gluten, dairy, or eggs. I recommend checking the labels carefully and perhaps making a gluten-free brownie base or using egg substitutes for those with specific dietary needs. Always best to ask your guests ahead of time for peace of mind!
How can I enhance the festive look of my Halloween Brookies?
Very fun! To up the ante on aesthetics, save a few M&Ms to sprinkle on top right after baking! You can also add festive sprinkles or drizzle melted chocolate over the top once cooled. This will turn ordinary brookies into an eye-catching centerpiece that brings even more holiday spirit to your gatherings!
Halloween Brookies: Irresistible Treats for Festive Fun
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Prepare the brownie mix according to package instructions.
- Stir in 1/4 cup of Halloween M&Ms into the brownie batter.
- Pour the brownie batter into a greased 9x13 inch baking pan.
- Place the ghost-shaped cookies evenly atop the brownie batter.
- Bake for 28-30 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out with a few moist crumbs.
- Allow the brookies to cool completely before slicing.