A cosmic brownie lush is a step above the classic cosmic brownie! We’re starting with a base of rich, fudgy chocolate brownie and adding a cream cheese and chocolate pudding layer and then a chocolate ganache adorned with rainbow sprinkles. You can’t get any more decadent or delicious!
Cosmic Brownie Pudding Dessert
I’ve said this before but I was so disappointed when I had an actual Little Debbie cosmic brownie as an adult. It tasted like cardboard.
But, it is such a nostalgic and timeless treat that I can’t stop using it as the inspiration for new desserts.
Everything from cosmic brownie hot chocolate bombs to cosmic brownie cookies and fudgy chocolate cosmic brownie pie.
However, despite their differences, they’re always ultra-chocolatey and sprinkled with cosmic rainbow chocolate chips! So, what’s one more fudgy, decadent variation to the classic brownie?!
Similar to my chocolate lush (aka chocolate lasagna), this cosmic brownie lush is made with a fudgy brownie base that is topped not only with the signature ganache but underneath that lies a layer of rich chocolaty pudding.
To make things easy I use a boxed brownie mix but by all means, use the homemade cosmic brownie recipe or my better than boxed mix brownie recipe if you’d like.
Either way, it’s an easy recipe that yields just about the best chocolate dessert you could imagine, especially if you have a soft spot for those lunch box brownies!
Why you’ll love this recipe
- It’s rich, and fudgy, and has an extra unexpected pudding layer that adds to the flavor and texture.
- If you love cool, creamy, chocolaty desserts, this cosmic brownie lush is for you.
- With 20 minutes of prep time, waiting for it to chill is the hardest part.
- One batch makes 15 servings, so it’s great for parties, potlucks, and freezing for later if you don’t want to share 😉
Helpful Tools
- Baking dish with lid – makes for easy storage
- Hand Mixer
- Glass mixing bowls
- Offset spatula
Ingredients
Below is a list of the ingredients you’ll need to gather to make this recipe, why you need them, and possible substitutions. Scroll all the way down for the full recipe card with measurements.
Jump- For the brownie layer – Box of brownie mix plus the extra ingredients listed on the box (oil, water, egg, etc).
- For the chocolate pudding – Softened at room temperature cream cheese, instant chocolate pudding mix, and cold milk.
- For the ganache layer – Chocolate chips, heavy whipping cream, rainbow chocolate chips.
How to make Cosmic Brownie Lush
This section shows you how to make this recipe, with process photos showing the steps to help you visualize it. For full instructions, including amounts and temperatures, see the recipe card below.
Jump- Step 1: Brownie layer. Prepare the brownie mix according to package instructions and then pour the brownie batter into a prepared 9 x 13 pan lined with parchment paper. Bake also according to package directions (usually about 25-30 minutes). Let that cool.
- Step 2: Pudding layer. Whip the cream cheese with an electric mixer at medium speed. In a separate large bowl, whisk together the cold mix and pudding mix. Scoop the whipped cream cheese into the pudding bowl, and mix on low until combined. Spread the mixture evenly over the brownie layer. Chill in the fridge for 30 minutes.
- Step 3: Ganache layer. Microwave chocolate chips and heavy cream in a microwave-safe bowl for 30 seconds. Stir and then continue to heat for 15-second intervals, stirring between each one. Once the ganache is smooth and creamy, pour it over the pudding layer. Use an offset spatula to gently spread it into an even layer.
- Step 4. Add chocolate chips and chill. Sprinkle the top of the ganache with rainbow chocolate chips. Then, cover the dish with plastic wrap and chill in the fridge for at least 4 hours. Once firm and set, dig in! I like to cut it into 15 slices, but you can decide how big or small you want your pieces.
How to serve it
There’s no such thing as a bad day when you’ve got a piece of cosmic brownie lush and a cold glass of milk to wash it down.
- Use 2% milk for the pudding. I did! The higher the fat content the richer the consistency. However, using cream may make it too thick, since it’s already mixed with cream cheese.
- Bring the cream cheese out to room temperature so it creams easily without leaving lumps behind.
- To test when the brownies are done, insert a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean, they’re ready.
- For added fun, stir 1/4 cup of the rainbow chips into the pudding layer.
- For easy slicing, pop the whole pan into the freezer for 30 minutes before you’re ready to serve. The chill will make the layers slice easier.
- I recommend using a sharp knife and wiping the blade off with paper towel between each slice for clean cuts.
Storage & Leftovers
How to store leftovers
Keep leftovers covered so the brownies don’t dry out. They’ll keep fresh in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can keep them on the counter for about an hour or so while you’re serving them.
Freezing Instructions
Pudding freezes well. I would freeze the whole pan, or move individual slices to a freezer safe container. They’ll keep frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw however many slices you need at room temperature before serving.
FAQs
What if I can’t find rainbow chips?
If you’ve tried Walmart, Hobby Lobby, and Amazon, and still no luck, you can swap them with whatever fun colored candy you can get your hands on. Mini M&Ms will be your best bet.
What type of chocolate is best for the ganache?
Semi-sweet or bittersweet chocolate chips can be used for the ganache. Milk chocolate chips would be too sweet since the pudding layer and brownie already deliver enough sweetness.
Need more brownie recipes? Try these:
Nutter Butter Stuffed Brownie Bars
Click here to view my entire collection of bars and brownie recipes.
Did You Make This?
If you made this recipe, I’d love to know how it went in the comments section below.
You can also tag me on Instagram – @melissa_ppplates or share a pic in the Persnickety Plates Community Facebook group. I love seeing what you’ve tried!
Cosmic Brownie Lush
Video
Ingredients
For the brownie layer
- 18 ounce brownie mix + ingredients called for on box (oil, water, egg, etc.)
For the chocolate pudding layer
- 8 ounces cream cheese softened to room temperature
- 5.9 ounce instant chocolate pudding mix
- 3 cups cold milk
For the chocolate ganache
- 1 cup chocolate chips
- ½ cup heavy whipping cream
- ¼ cup rainbow chocolate chips
Instructions
To make the brownie layer
- Preheat the oven to 350°F and line a 9×13 baking dish with parchment paper. Set it aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, prepare the brownie mix per the box instructions (mix together the eggs, oil, water) and pour into the prepared pan.18 ounce brownie mix
- Bake according to the package instructions, generally 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Set the brownies aside to cool.
To make the pudding layer
- While the brownies are cooling, prepare the pudding layer.
- Add the softened cream cheese to a small mixing bowl. Use an electric mixer on medium speed to whip the cream cheese.8 ounces cream cheese
- In another large mixing bowl, add the pudding mix and cold milk. Whisk together.5.9 ounce instant chocolate pudding mix, 3 cups cold milk
- Scoop the whipped cream cheese into the pudding bowl and using the electric mixer on low, combine the two.
- Spread the pudding mixture evenly over the cooled brownie layer.
- Place the pan into the fridge to chill for 30 minutes.
To make the ganache
- To a large microwave safe bowl, add the chocolate chips and heavy cream. Heat in the microwave for 30 seconds, stir, then continue at 15 second intervals, stirring between each, until the ganache is creamy and smooth.1 cup chocolate chips, ½ cup heavy whipping cream
- Pour the ganache over the pudding layer and use an offset spatula to gently spread it evenly.
- Sprinkle with the rainbow chips.¼ cup rainbow chocolate chips
- Cover and chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours to firm up.
- Slice and serve!
Notes
- Use your favorite brownie mix or 9×13 “from scratch” brownie recipe.
- Store covered in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Use 2% milk for the pudding for a nice consistency—higher fat makes it richer, but cream can make it too thick with the cream cheese.
- Semi-sweet or bittersweet chocolate chips can be used for the ganache.
- Stir in 1/4 cup of rainbow chips into the pudding layer for a fun twist.
Nutrition
Nutritional information is an estimate and provided to you as a courtesy. You should calculate the nutritional information with the actual ingredients used in your recipe using your preferred nutrition calculator.
