Twist on brownie mix offers up simple, flavorful treats
Why buy expensive brownies when you can make just as delicious ones for cheaper at home? All you need is your favorite boxed brownie mix and some pantry items. Grab some hot chocolate and get ready to feel those cozy winter vibes with these delectable treats.
Salted Caramel Brownies
Ingredients:
- 1 box brownie mix
- Eggs (amount depends on box)
- Vegetable oil (amount depends on box)
- Water (amount depends on box)
- About 1 cup Salted caramel topping
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F for a regular metal or glass pan and 325°F for a nonstick pan
- In a medium bowl mix together the box mix, eggs, oil and water till well combined and lumps disappear.
- Grease your pan or line with parchment paper, then pour in your brownie batter.
- Spoon in about a tablespoon or two at a time of salted caramel into five different areas (four corners and center). Grab a spreading knife or skewer and swirl the caramel into the batter. Make sure not to over-swirl it and accidentally mix them together.
- Put your pan in the oven and bake for the time directed on the box. Check if they’re ready by sticking in a toothpick or spreading knife and making sure no batter sticks to it.
- Let the brownies cool for about 15 minutes before cutting a piece and sharing with your loved ones—or eat them all by yourself because they are that good.
Espresso Chip Brownies
Ingredients:
- 1 box brownie mix
- Eggs (amount depends on box)
- Vegetable oil (amount depends on box)
- Cold-brewed coffee (to replace the amount of water on the box)
- 1 cup espresso baking chips (optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F for a regular metal or glass pan and 325°F for a nonstick pan.
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- In a medium bowl mix together the box mix and the 1 cup of espresso chips, making sure the chips are well coated in the flour mixture. You can add less or more chips depending on your preference.
- Make sure your coffee has been chilled and is no longer hot, then mix it into the mixture along with the eggs and oil until it’s well combined.
- Grease your pan or line with parchment paper, then pour in your brownie batter
- Optional: Top brownie batter with chopped espresso chips for a nice finish.
- Put your pan in the oven and bake for the time directed on the box. Check if they’re ready by sticking in a toothpick or spreading knife and making sure no batter sticks to it.
- Let the brownies cool for about 15 minutes, cut a piece and cuddle up by the window with a good book. (Caution: These brownies will have a lot of caffeine.)
English Toffee Brownies
Ingredients:
- 1 Box brownie mix
- Eggs, amount depends on box
- Vegetable oil, amount depends on box
- Water, amount depends on box (or coffee creamer to enhance flavors)
- 1 ½ cup English toffee baking bits
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F for a regular metal or glass pan and 325°F for a nonstick pan.
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- In a medium bowl mix together the box mix flour mixture and the English toffee baking bits. You can add less or more depending on your preference.
- In the same bowl mix in the eggs, oil, and water (or creamer) until the lumps disappear. Using a coffee creamer like vanilla, mocha or whatever is in your fridge can enhance and complement the flavors, giving it a richer and more well-rounded taste.
- Grease your pan or line with parchment paper, then pour in your brownie batter.
- Optional: Sprinkle on some more English toffee bits for a more beautiful presentation.
- Put your pan in the oven and bake for the time directed on the box. Check if they’re ready by sticking in a toothpick or spreading knife and making sure no batter sticks to it.
- Let the brownies cool for 15 minutes then cut and enjoy with a tall glass of milk.
These three easy box brownie recipes are the perfect treat for any occasion. Whether it be having a self care day and celebrating you, a family movie night or even having a midnight snack to satisfy your sweet tooth. So what are you waiting for? Channel your inner baker and try them out!
For more recipes, find Buthaina Asamarai on Instagram @buths.kitchen
Buthaina Asamarai is a senior at Columbia Heights High School. She is the Taste Editor for The Heights Herald and enjoys photography and baking.