If you’re searching for the ultimate crowd-pleaser, look no further than this Chocolate Frosted Brownies Recipe. Imagine dense, fudgy brownies crowned with a thick, creamy layer of chocolate frosting—each bite delivers that perfect harmony of rich cocoa flavor and melt-in-your-mouth sweetness. Whether you’re baking for a potluck, family night, or just to treat yourself, this recipe is your ticket to instant smiles and swoons. It’s a classic for good reason, and once you taste these brownies, you’ll understand why they never go out of style!

Ingredients You’ll Need
What makes these brownies truly special is how a handful of pantry staples come together to create pure magic. Each ingredient has a purpose, from the deep cocoa notes to the luscious, creamy frosting, ensuring every square is decadent and satisfying.
- Unsalted butter (melted): The base for rich, moist brownies and a creamy frosting—using melted butter ensures a fudgy texture.
- Granulated sugar: Sweetens the brownies and helps create that irresistible crackly top.
- Large eggs: Provide structure and a tender crumb—make sure they’re room temperature for the best results.
- Vanilla extract: Adds depth and rounds out the chocolate flavor in both brownie and frosting.
- All-purpose flour: Just enough to hold everything together without making the brownies cakey.
- Unsweetened cocoa powder: The real star—use a good-quality cocoa for the deepest chocolate flavor.
- Salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the chocolate notes.
- Baking powder: Lends a slight lift for brownies that aren’t too dense.
- Powdered sugar: Essential for a smooth, fluffy frosting that melts on your tongue.
- Milk or heavy cream: Adds creaminess to the frosting—use heavy cream for extra richness.
How to Make Chocolate Frosted Brownies Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Pan and Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper and give it a light coat of nonstick spray or butter. This simple step ensures your brownies pop right out, keeping those beautiful edges intact.
Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the melted butter and granulated sugar until the mixture looks glossy and thick. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. This helps incorporate air for a slightly lighter texture. Finish by stirring in the vanilla extract—it’s the secret behind that bakery-style aroma.
Step 3: Combine the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, salt, and baking powder. Sifting prevents lumps and ensures that every bite is perfectly blended and smooth.
Step 4: Make the Brownie Batter
Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, mixing just until combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few streaks of flour are okay. Overmixing can lead to tough brownies, and we’re aiming for pure fudgy bliss!
Step 5: Bake
Pour the batter into your prepared pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake for 28–32 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. The kitchen will smell like chocolate heaven!
Step 6: Cool Completely
Patience is key here—let the brownies cool completely in the pan. This makes them easier to frost and helps lock in moisture for that perfect texture.
Step 7: Make the Frosting
In a medium bowl, beat together the softened butter, cocoa powder, and a pinch of salt until smooth. Add powdered sugar, milk (or cream), and vanilla extract. Beat until the frosting is light and fluffy. If it’s too thick, just add a splash more milk until it spreads easily.
Step 8: Frost and Set
Once the brownies are cool, spread the frosting evenly over the top. Let them sit for a bit to allow the frosting to set, making slicing a breeze. Now all that’s left is to cut them into generous squares and enjoy!
How to Serve Chocolate Frosted Brownies Recipe

Garnishes
A sprinkle of flaky sea salt or a handful of mini chocolate chips adds a delightful crunch and extra flavor pop. For a festive touch, try colorful sprinkles or a dusting of cocoa powder on top of the frosting.
Side Dishes
Serve your brownies with a tall glass of cold milk, a mug of hot coffee, or even a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The contrast of warm, gooey brownie with cold, creamy ice cream is pure dessert joy.
Creative Ways to Present
Cut brownies into fun shapes using cookie cutters for parties or stack squares in a pyramid for a stunning dessert centerpiece. You can even wrap individual pieces in parchment and twine for adorable edible gifts.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover Chocolate Frosted Brownies Recipe in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. The frosting helps lock in moisture, so they stay soft and fudgy longer than you’d expect.
Freezing
These brownies freeze beautifully! Arrange the cut squares in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze solid, then transfer them to a zip-top bag. They’ll keep in the freezer for up to three months. Thaw at room temperature when you’re ready for a chocolate fix.
Reheating
If you love warm brownies, pop a piece in the microwave for 10–15 seconds. The frosting will get a little melty, and the brownie will taste freshly baked—perfect for pairing with ice cream!
FAQs
Can I use Dutch-processed cocoa powder instead of natural?
Absolutely! Dutch-processed cocoa powder will give your Chocolate Frosted Brownies Recipe an even deeper chocolate flavor and a darker color. Just be aware that the texture may be slightly different, but the result is still delicious.
How do I make the brownies extra fudgy?
For super fudgy brownies, slightly underbake them and let them chill in the fridge before cutting. You can also add a handful of chocolate chips to the batter for pockets of melted chocolate in every bite.
What’s the best way to slice brownies cleanly?
Wait until the brownies are completely cool and the frosting is set. Use a sharp knife, wiping it clean between cuts. For perfectly neat edges, you can even chill the brownies first before slicing.
Can I make the Chocolate Frosted Brownies Recipe gluten-free?
Yes, just swap the all-purpose flour for your favorite 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. The brownies will still be decadent, rich, and full of chocolate flavor!
Is it possible to double the frosting?
Of course! If you’re a frosting fanatic, go ahead and double the frosting ingredients for an extra-thick, bakery-style topping on your brownies. Just make sure to let the brownies cool completely before piling it on.
Final Thoughts
There’s something magical about sharing a pan of homemade treats, and this Chocolate Frosted Brownies Recipe is as comforting and irresistible as it gets. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just to brighten an ordinary day, these brownies are sure to become a go-to favorite. Give them a try—you’ll be glad you did!
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Chocolate Frosted Brownies Recipe
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 24 brownies 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Deliciously rich and moist chocolate frosted brownies featuring a fudgy cocoa base topped with a creamy chocolate frosting. Perfect for dessert or a sweet snack, this classic American recipe is simple to make and sure to satisfy any chocolate craving.
Ingredients
For the Brownies:
- 1 cup unsalted butter (melted)
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
For the Chocolate Frosting:
- ¼ cup unsalted butter (softened)
- ¼ cup milk or heavy cream
- ¼ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- pinch of salt
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper to ensure easy removal of brownies after baking.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the melted butter and granulated sugar until fully combined. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition to incorporate air and ensure a smooth batter. Stir in the vanilla extract for flavor.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, unsweetened cocoa powder, salt, and baking powder. Gradually add this dry mixture into the wet ingredients. Stir until just combined, taking care not to overmix as this could toughen the brownies.
- Bake the Brownies: Pour batter evenly into the prepared pan and smooth the surface with a spatula. Bake for 28–32 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted near the center comes out with a few moist crumbs indicating perfect fudgy texture. Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan before frosting.
- Prepare the Chocolate Frosting: In a medium bowl, beat the softened butter, cocoa powder, and a pinch of salt until creamy and smooth. Add powdered sugar, milk (or heavy cream), and vanilla extract, and beat until the mixture becomes light and fluffy. Adjust the consistency by adding a little more milk if needed.
- Frost the Brownies: Spread the prepared chocolate frosting evenly over the cooled brownies. Let the frosting set before slicing into 24 squares to ensure neat and clean cuts.
Notes
- For a fudgier brownie, slightly underbake by reducing baking time by 2-3 minutes and chill before cutting.
- Add chocolate chips or chopped nuts to the batter for added texture and flavor.
- Store brownies in an airtight container at room temperature; they keep well for up to 5 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 brownie
- Calories: 240
- Sugar: 26g
- Sodium: 90mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 33g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 45mg