“Little Debbie” Brownies

These Little Debbie Brownies are a delightful treat that captures the rich, fudgy essence of the beloved snack cake, all while being gluten-free! Perfect for birthday parties, family gatherings, or simply satisfying your sweet tooth, these brownies stand out with their smooth chocolate topping and chewy texture. Enjoy them as a dessert or an indulgent snack at any time of day.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich Flavor: These brownies pack a chocolate punch that will satisfy any sweet craving.
• Gluten-Free Option: Made with gluten-free flour, they cater to those with dietary restrictions without compromising taste.
• Easy to Make: The simple steps ensure that even novice bakers can whip up this delicious treat.
• Versatile Topping: The optional decorations like M&Ms or Sixlets add a fun twist for kids and adults alike.
• Perfect for Sharing: With 12 servings, these brownies are great for sharing at gatherings or keeping all to yourself!

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Tools and Preparation

Preparing your Little Debbie Brownies is simple. Having the right tools ensures a smooth baking process and perfect results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Rubber spatula
• 9×13 inch baking pan
• Parchment paper (optional)

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients evenly without mess.
• Whisk: Helps achieve a smooth batter by breaking down lumps in dry ingredients.
• Rubber spatula: Perfect for scraping down sides of bowls and ensuring no batter is wasted.

Ingredients

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

For the Brownies

• 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

Optional Decorations

• 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). Prepare your baking pan by greasing it lightly or lining it with parchment paper.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl:
1. Combine the gluten-free flour, xanthan gum (if needed), cocoa powder, and kosher salt.
2. Whisk together until well mixed.

Step 3: Cream Sugars and Butter

In another bowl:
1. Beat together the unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
2. Add in the neutral oil, vanilla extract, and corn syrup. Mix until thoroughly combined.

Step 4: Add Eggs

1. Beat in the eggs one at a time into the butter mixture until fully incorporated.

Step 5: Combine Mixtures

Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture using a rubber spatula until just combined. Avoid overmixing.

Step 6: Bake the Brownies

Pour the batter into your prepared pan and spread it evenly.
1. Bake in preheated oven for about 28 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out mostly clean.
2. Allow cooling completely before moving on to the topping.

Step 7: Prepare Chocolate Topping

In a saucepan over medium heat:
1. Combine chopped semi-sweet chocolate and heavy cream.
2. Stir constantly until smooth and melted.
3. Remove from heat once fully melted.

Step 8: Assemble Brownies

Pour the chocolate topping over cooled brownies:
1. Use a spatula to spread it evenly over the surface.
2. If desired, sprinkle miniature M&Ms or Sixlets on top before allowing to set.

Now you have your delicious Little Debbie Brownies, ready to be enjoyed!

How to Serve Little Debbie Brownies

These delightful Little Debbie brownies are perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a party or enjoying a quiet night at home, these brownies can be served in various delicious ways.

With Ice Cream

• Serve warm brownies topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert.

Drizzled with Caramel Sauce

• Drizzle homemade or store-bought caramel sauce over the brownies to add an extra layer of sweetness.

Topped with Whipped Cream

• A dollop of fresh whipped cream makes for a light and airy complement to the rich chocolate flavor.

Accompanied by Fresh Berries

• Serve with a side of strawberries or raspberries for a refreshing contrast to the fudgy texture.

Dressed Up with Nuts

• Sprinkle chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans on top for added crunch and flavor.

Served at Room Temperature

• Allow your brownies to cool and serve at room temperature for the best texture and taste experience.

How to Perfect Little Debbie Brownies

Making the perfect Little Debbie brownies requires some attention to detail. Follow these tips to ensure your brownies are rich, fudgy, and delicious every time.

• Use Quality Chocolate – Opt for high-quality semi-sweet chocolate for the best flavor.
• Don’t Overmix – Mix just until combined to keep your brownies fudgy rather than cakey.
• Room Temperature Ingredients – Ensure butter and eggs are at room temperature for better incorporation.
• Bake Until Just Set – Remove from the oven when edges appear firm but the center is still slightly soft; this keeps them moist.
• Let Them Cool – Allow your brownies to cool completely before cutting for clean edges and easier serving.
• Experiment with Toppings – Feel free to add chocolate chips, nuts, or candies on top before baking for extra fun!

Best Side Dishes for Little Debbie Brownies

Pairing side dishes with Little Debbie brownies can elevate your dessert experience. Here are some excellent options:

1. Vanilla Ice Cream – A classic pairing that complements chocolate flavors perfectly.
2. Fresh Fruit Salad – A mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances richness.
3. Chocolate Sauce – For those who crave more chocolate, serve a warm chocolate sauce on the side.
4. Peanut Butter Drizzle – A drizzle of smooth peanut butter creates a delightful nutty flavor contrast.
5. Coffee or Espresso – The bitterness of coffee enhances the sweetness of the brownies beautifully.
6. Milkshake – A chocolate or vanilla milkshake offers a creamy, dreamy addition to your brownie treat.
7. Hot Chocolate – Pairing these brownies with hot chocolate makes it an ultimate comfort food combo.
8. Nutty Granola Bar Crumble – Sprinkle some granola on top for added crunch and texture.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making brownies can be simple, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for. Here are some mistakes to avoid when making Little Debbie Brownies.

• Using the wrong flour: Always ensure you use a suitable gluten-free flour blend. Not all blends behave the same in baking.
• Overmixing the batter: Mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to tough brownies rather than fudgy ones.
• Not measuring ingredients accurately: Baking is a science! Use proper measuring cups and spoons for accurate results.
• Skipping room temperature ingredients: Ingredients like butter and eggs should be at room temperature to mix properly, ensuring a smoother batter.
• Ignoring baking time: Keep an eye on your brownies as they bake. Every oven is different, so check for doneness with a toothpick.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store brownies in an airtight container.
• They can last up to 5 days in the fridge.

Freezing Little Debbie Brownies

• Wrap brownies tightly in plastic wrap and then foil.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Little Debbie Brownies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat for 10-15 seconds until just warm; be careful not to overheat!
• Stovetop: Place in a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm gently.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about making Little Debbie Brownies, you’re not alone! Here are some frequently asked questions that might help.

Can I substitute regular flour for gluten-free flour?

Yes, but the texture will change. Using a gluten-free blend is recommended for the best results.

How do I know when my brownies are done?

Insert a toothpick in the center; it should come out with a few moist crumbs, not wet batter.

Can I add nuts or chocolate chips?

Absolutely! Feel free to customize your Little Debbie Brownies by adding pecans, walnuts, or chocolate chips.

What if I don’t have xanthan gum?

If your gluten-free flour blend already contains xanthan gum, you can skip adding more. Just check the packaging!

Final Thoughts

These Little Debbie Brownies offer a rich, fudgy treat that brings nostalgic flavors right into your kitchen. They’re perfect for customizing with toppings or mix-ins like nuts or candies. Enjoy these brownies fresh or stored for later—they’re sure to delight anyone who tries them!