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Perfect Mini Graduation Cap Brownie Bites

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These mini brownie bites combine a rich, fudgy brownie base with playful graduation cap decorations made from black candy melts and vanilla frosting, perfect for celebrations and last-minute parties.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs, room temperature
  • 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
  • 3/4 cup (95g) all-purpose flour
  • 1/3 cup (35g) unsweetened cocoa powder (preferably Dutch-process)
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp baking powder (optional)
  • 1 cup (about 150g) black candy melts
  • 1/2 cup (120g) vanilla frosting (store-bought or homemade)
  • Toothpicks, cut in half
  • Optional: edible gold or silver dust
  • Optional: colored sprinkles or edible stars

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving overhang for easy removal.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk melted butter and granulated sugar until combined and glossy, about 1-2 minutes. Add eggs one at a time, whisking well after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract.
  3. In a separate bowl, sift together flour, cocoa powder, salt, and baking powder (if using).
  4. Gradually fold dry ingredients into wet ingredients using a spatula until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep batter fudgy.
  5. Pour batter into prepared pan and spread evenly. Bake for 20-25 minutes. Check doneness with a toothpick; it should come out with a few moist crumbs.
  6. Cool brownies completely in the pan on a wire rack for at least 30 minutes.
  7. Cut cooled brownies into 1.5-inch (4 cm) squares, keeping them uniform.
  8. Melt black candy melts gently in a microwave-safe bowl or double boiler, stirring frequently. Add a tiny splash of vegetable oil if too thick.
  9. Spoon small dollops of melted candy melts onto parchment paper, shaping into flat squares slightly larger than brownie tops. Let set until firm (about 10 minutes in fridge).
  10. Spread a thin layer of vanilla frosting on each brownie square. Press a hardened candy melt square on top.
  11. Insert half a toothpick into the edge of each candy square to create tassels. Optionally, add a dab of frosting and sprinkle edible glitter or decorations.
  12. Arrange brownie bites on a platter and serve. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

Notes

Do not overbake the brownies to keep them fudgy. Cool brownies completely before cutting and frosting to prevent melting. Use short bursts when melting candy melts to avoid burning. Store assembled bites in a cool, dry place away from humidity to keep candy caps crisp. For gluten-free, substitute flour with almond or gluten-free blend. For dairy-free, substitute butter with coconut oil and use dairy-free frosting.

Nutrition

Keywords: graduation treats, mini brownies, brownie bites, celebration desserts, easy brownies, candy melts, party snacks

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