Description
Cosmic Brownie Lush is a decadent layered dessert featuring a rich brownie base, a creamy chocolate pudding layer whipped with cream cheese, and a luscious chocolate ganache topped with colorful rainbow chips. This no-fuss treat combines multiple textures and flavors for a crowd-pleasing dessert perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Brownie Layer
- 18 ounces brownie mix plus required ingredients (oil, water, eggs, etc.)
Chocolate Pudding Layer
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened to room temperature
- 5.9 ounces instant chocolate pudding mix
- 3 cups cold 2% milk
Chocolate Ganache
- 1 cup semi-sweet or bittersweet chocolate chips
- ½ cup heavy whipping cream
- ¼ cup rainbow chocolate chips
Instructions
- Prepare the Brownie Layer: Preheat your oven to 350°F. Line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper. In a large mixing bowl, combine the 18-ounce brownie mix with the ingredients called for on the box—typically oil, water, and eggs. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake according to package instructions, usually 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Once baked, set the brownies aside and allow them to cool completely.
- Make the Chocolate Pudding Layer: While the brownies cool, take 8 ounces of softened cream cheese and whip it in a small bowl using an electric mixer at medium speed until smooth and fluffy. In a separate large bowl, whisk together the 5.9-ounce instant chocolate pudding mix with 3 cups of cold 2% milk until fully combined. Add the whipped cream cheese into the pudding mixture and gently mix using the electric mixer on low speed until well incorporated. Spread this creamy pudding mixture evenly over the cooled brownie base. Place the pan in the refrigerator and chill for 30 minutes to set.
- Prepare the Ganache: In a large microwave-safe bowl, combine 1 cup of chocolate chips with ½ cup of heavy whipping cream. Heat the mixture in the microwave for 30 seconds, stir well, then continue heating in 15-second intervals, stirring between each, until the ganache is smooth and creamy. Pour the ganache over the chilled pudding layer and use an offset spatula to spread it evenly. Sprinkle ¼ cup of rainbow chocolate chips on top for a colorful finish.
- Chill and Serve: Cover the entire dessert and refrigerate for at least 4 hours to allow the layers to firm up completely. Once set, slice into squares and serve chilled for the best taste and texture.
Notes
- You can use your favorite brownie mix or a homemade 9×13″ brownie recipe for the base.
- Store the cheesecake covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days for optimal freshness.
- Using 2% milk in the pudding layer ensures a balanced consistency—higher fat milk enriches the flavor, but cream can make the pudding too thick when combined with cream cheese.
- Semi-sweet or bittersweet chocolate chips work well for the ganache layer.
- For added fun, stir ¼ cup rainbow chips into the pudding layer before spreading it over the brownies.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
