“Little Debbie” Brownies

These Little Debbie Brownies are a nostalgic treat that brings back childhood memories while being gluten-free! With their rich, fudgy texture and a smooth chocolate topping, they are perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a birthday party or just a cozy night in. Enjoy these brownies knowing they deliver the same delightful flavor as your favorite snack cake.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Gluten-Free Delight: Enjoy all the taste of traditional brownies without gluten.
• Quick and Easy: With just 20 minutes of prep time, you can whip these up in no time.
• Rich Flavor: Made with high-quality cocoa and semi-sweet chocolate for an indulgent experience.
• Customizable Toppings: Add miniature M&Ms or Sixlets to make them even more fun and colorful.
• Perfect for Sharing: This recipe yields 12 brownies, making it great for gatherings or potlucks.

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Tools and Preparation

To create your delicious Little Debbie Brownies, you will need some essential tools. Having the right equipment makes the process smoother and ensures better results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Rubber spatula
• Measuring cups
• Measuring spoons
• 9×13 inch baking pan
• Parchment paper
• Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients evenly without mess.
• Rubber spatula: Perfect for scraping down the sides of bowls and ensuring nothing is left behind.
• Measuring cups/spoons: Accurate measurements are crucial for achieving the perfect brownie texture.

Ingredients

These rich, fudgy brownies with the thick but smooth chocolate top taste just like Little Debbies, but they’re gluten free!

For the Brownie Batter

• 1 cup all-purpose gluten-free flour (please click thru for info on appropriate blends)
• 1/2 teaspoon xanthan gum (omit if your blend already contains it)
• 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder (See Recipe Notes)
• 1/8 teaspoon kosher salt
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
• 8 tablespoons unsalted butter (at room temperature)
• 2 tablespoons neutral oil (like vegetable, canola or peanut oil)
• 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
• 2 tablespoons light corn syrup
• 2 eggs (at room temperature, beaten)

For the Chocolate Topping

• 8 ounces semi-sweet chocolate (chopped)
• 2/3 cup heavy whipping cream
• 1/8 teaspoon kosher salt

For Decoration (Optional)

• 3 ounces miniature M&Ms candies or multicolored Sixlets

How to Make Little Debbie Brownies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your brownies bake evenly.

Step 2: Prepare Your Baking Pan

Line a 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper. This will help prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, combine:
1. Gluten-free flour
2. Xanthan gum (if using)
3. Unsweetened cocoa powder
4. Kosher salt

Whisk these together until well blended.

Step 4: Cream Butter and Sugars

In another bowl, beat together:
1. Unsalted butter
2. Granulated sugar
3. Light brown sugar

Mix until creamy and combined.

Step 5: Add Wet Ingredients

To the butter mixture, add:
1. Neutral oil
2. Vanilla extract
3. Light corn syrup
4. Beaten eggs

Stir until fully combined.

Step 6: Combine Mixtures

Gradually add dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep your brownies fudgy.

Step 7: Bake

Pour the batter into your prepared pan and spread it evenly. Bake in your preheated oven for about 28 minutes or until a toothpick comes out with a few moist crumbs.

Step 8: Prepare Chocolate Topping

While brownies bake, heat heavy whipping cream in a saucepan until just simmering. Remove from heat and stir in chopped semi-sweet chocolate until melted and smooth.

Step 9: Add Topping

Once brownies are cooled slightly, pour the chocolate topping over them. Spread evenly using a spatula.

Step 10: Decorate

If desired, sprinkle miniature M&Ms or Sixlets on top for decoration before cutting into squares.

Now you have delicious Little Debbie Brownies ready to enjoy! Perfectly fudgy with a delightful chocolate finish!

How to Serve Little Debbie Brownies

Serving Little Debbie brownies is all about enhancing their rich, fudgy goodness. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying them with family, here are some delightful serving suggestions.

A La Mode

• Serve warm brownies topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delicious contrast between hot and cold.

With Whipped Cream

• Add a dollop of fresh whipped cream on top for an airy texture that complements the dense brownie.

Drizzled with Caramel

• A drizzle of warm caramel sauce can elevate the flavors and add a sweet, sticky touch.

Topped with Nuts

• Sprinkle chopped walnuts or pecans on top for added crunch and nuttiness that pairs well with chocolate.

How to Perfect Little Debbie Brownies

To achieve the ultimate Little Debbie brownies, attention to detail is essential. Follow these tips for perfect results every time.

• Use Quality Chocolate: Opt for high-quality semi-sweet chocolate for a richer flavor and smoother texture.
• Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure butter and eggs are at room temperature for better mixing and consistency.
• Don’t Overmix: Mix just until combined to keep the brownies fudgy and prevent them from becoming too cake-like.
• Check Oven Temperature: Use an oven thermometer to ensure your oven is at the correct temperature, as baking times can vary.
• Cool Completely: Allow brownies to cool in the pan before cutting to ensure neat, clean edges.

Best Side Dishes for Little Debbie Brownies

Pairing side dishes with your Little Debbie brownies can create a balanced dessert experience. Here are some tasty suggestions:

1. Fresh Fruit Salad
   A mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances the sweetness of the brownies.

2. Chocolate Milkshake
   A creamy chocolate milkshake complements the chocolatey goodness of the brownies perfectly.

3. Coffee or Espresso
   A cup of strong coffee or espresso enhances the flavors of chocolate while providing a caffeine boost.

4. Vanilla Yogurt Parfait
   Layered with yogurt and granola, this parfait offers a healthy contrast in texture and flavor.

5. Mint Tea
   A refreshing mint tea serves as a palate cleanser after indulging in rich desserts like brownies.

6. Peanut Butter Dip
   Serve peanut butter dip alongside sliced apples for a fun contrast with your fudge brownies.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Little Debbie brownies, it’s easy to overlook a few key details. Here are some common mistakes and how to avoid them.

• Using the wrong flour: Not all gluten-free flours are the same. Make sure you’re using a blend that works for baking.
• Skipping room temperature ingredients: Cold eggs and butter can affect the texture. Always use room temperature for better blending.
• Not measuring cocoa powder correctly: Too much cocoa can make brownies dry. Use a spoon to fluff it up before scooping.
• Overbaking: Brownies should be fudgy, not cakey. Keep an eye on the timer and do the toothpick test a couple of minutes early.
• Neglecting to let them cool: Cutting brownies while they are still warm can lead to messy pieces. Allow them to cool completely before slicing.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• They will last about 5-7 days in the fridge.

Freezing Little Debbie Brownies

• Wrap each brownie individually in plastic wrap.
• Place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Little Debbie Brownies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and reheat for 10-15 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat one brownie at a time for about 15-20 seconds or until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Place in a pan over low heat, cover with a lid, and heat gently for about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some commonly asked questions regarding Little Debbie brownies.

Can I use regular flour instead of gluten-free?

No, this recipe is specifically crafted for gluten-free flour blends to achieve the right texture.

How can I make these brownies vegan?

Replace the eggs with flaxseed meal or applesauce and use dairy-free chocolate and butter alternatives.

What makes these brownies taste like Little Debbies?

The rich chocolate flavor and fudgy texture mimic the classic Little Debbie treat perfectly!

How do I add more flavor to Little Debbie brownies?

Consider adding chocolate chips, nuts, or even a swirl of peanut butter for an extra flavor boost.

Final Thoughts

These delightful Little Debbie brownies offer an irresistible treat that’s both rich and fudgy, capturing the essence of childhood nostalgia. With options for customization like adding nuts or different toppings, they cater to various tastes. Try making them today!