Monster Mash Brownies Fun (Printable Version)

Fudgy brownies decorated with colorful frosting and playful candy eyes for a festive Halloween treat.

# Ingredients:

→ Brownie Base

01 - 1 box fudgy brownie mix (brand of choice)
02 - Ingredients listed on the box (typically eggs, vegetable oil, water)

→ Decoration

03 - 240 ml vanilla frosting (store-bought or homemade)
04 - Gel food coloring in green, purple, or orange hues
05 - Halloween-themed sprinkles (bats, pumpkins, festive shapes)
06 - Candy eyes, assorted sizes

→ Optional Add-ins

07 - Mini chocolate chips
08 - Chopped candy bars
09 - Orange or black sanding sugar

# Steps:

01 - Preheat oven according to brownie mix package instructions, typically 175°C. Grease a 23x33 cm (9x13 inch) baking pan with butter or non-stick spray, or line with parchment paper leaving overhang for easy removal.
02 - Combine brownie mix with specified eggs, vegetable oil, and water. Stir gently until smooth and just combined to avoid tough texture.
03 - Pour batter evenly into prepared pan. Bake following package directions, generally 25-30 minutes, until a toothpick inserted near the center has moist crumbs. Avoid overbaking.
04 - Allow brownies to cool completely in pan at room temperature for at least 60 minutes to prevent frosting from melting.
05 - Transfer vanilla frosting to bowl. Add gel food coloring dropwise, stirring thoroughly until desired vibrant color is achieved.
06 - Spread colored frosting evenly over cooled brownies using an offset spatula. Immediately apply Halloween sprinkles and randomly press candy eyes of various sizes into frosting for a playful appearance.
07 - Let decorated brownies rest for 15-20 minutes to allow frosting to firm slightly. Slice into 12 equal squares with a clean, sharp knife cleaned between cuts for neat edges.

# Notes:

01 - Using gel food coloring ensures vibrant colors without thinning the frosting. For clean slicing, chill frosted brownies for 30 minutes prior to cutting.
02 - Allow brownies to cool fully before frosting to prevent melting and ensure smooth decoration.