“Little Debbie” Brownies

These Little Debbie brownies are a delightful treat that brings back childhood memories while being gluten-free! With their rich, fudgy texture and smooth chocolate topping, they’re perfect for any occasion—be it a birthday party, family gathering, or simply a sweet indulgence at home. Enjoy the taste of nostalgia without compromising dietary needs.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Deliciously Fudgy: These brownies deliver an intense chocolate flavor that rivals your favorite store-bought treats.
• Gluten-Free Delight: Made with gluten-free flour, everyone can enjoy these brownies, regardless of dietary restrictions.
• Easy to Make: The simple steps make this recipe beginner-friendly and accessible for all baking enthusiasts.
• Customizable Toppings: Add your favorite candies or nuts to personalize your brownies for any celebration.
• Perfect for Sharing: With 12 servings, these brownies are great for sharing with friends and family or enjoying throughout the week.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start baking your Little Debbie brownies, gather the essential tools to make the process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Rubber spatula
• Baking pan (9×13 inch)
• Double boiler or microwave-safe bowl

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: A variety of sizes helps in properly mixing dry and wet ingredients without mess.
• Baking pan: A good quality 9×13 inch pan ensures even baking and easy serving.
• Double boiler: Ideal for melting chocolate gently without burning it, ensuring a smooth texture.

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Ingredients

For these delicious Little Debbie brownies, gather the following ingredients:

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 Topping

• 8 ounces semi-sweet chocolate (chopped)
• 2/3 cup heavy whipping cream
• 1/8 teaspoon kosher salt
• 3 ounces miniature M&Ms candies or multicolored Sixlets (for decorating – optional)

How to Make Little Debbie Brownies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is crucial for even baking.

Step 2: Prepare the Baking Pan

Grease a 9×13 inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper. This will help prevent the brownies from sticking.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, combine:
1. Gluten-free flour
2. Xanthan gum (if using)
3. Cocoa powder
4. Salt

Whisk together until well blended.

Step 4: Cream Butter and Sugars

In a large mixing bowl:
1. Beat together the unsalted butter and both sugars until creamy.
2. Add in oil and vanilla extract; mix well.

Step 5: Add Eggs and Corn Syrup

1. Incorporate the beaten eggs one at a time into the butter mixture.
2. Stir in light corn syrup until fully combined.

Step 6: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture into the wet ingredients:
1. Mix until just combined; be careful not to overmix.

Step 7: Bake the Brownies

Pour the brownie batter into your prepared baking pan:
1. Smooth it out evenly using a rubber spatula.
2. Bake in preheated oven for about 28 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out with moist crumbs.

Step 8: Prepare Chocolate Topping

While brownies are baking:
1. In a double boiler or microwave-safe bowl, heat chopped chocolate with heavy whipping cream until melted and smooth.
2. Stir in salt; let cool slightly before pouring over baked brownies.

Step 9: Decorate

Once topped with chocolate ganache, sprinkle miniature M&Ms or Sixlets on top if desired.

Step 10: Cool and Serve

Allow brownies to cool completely before cutting into squares. Enjoy your homemade Little Debbie brownies!

How to Serve Little Debbie Brownies

These rich and fudgy Little Debbie brownies are perfect for any occasion. They can be enjoyed on their own or paired with delightful accompaniments that enhance their chocolatey goodness.

With Ice Cream

• Serve warm brownies topped with a scoop of vanilla or chocolate ice cream for a delicious contrast in temperature and texture.

With Whipped Cream

• Add a dollop of whipped cream to each brownie slice for a light and airy complement to the dense chocolate.

With Fresh Berries

• Top your brownies with fresh strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries for a fruity twist that balances the sweetness.

Drizzled with Chocolate Sauce

• Enhance the chocolate flavor by drizzling warm chocolate sauce over each brownie before serving.

As Brownie Sundaes

• Create a fun dessert by layering brownie pieces, ice cream, whipped cream, and toppings like nuts or sprinkles in a glass.

How to Perfect Little Debbie Brownies

To achieve the best results with your Little Debbie brownies, follow these handy tips for perfecting your baking technique.

• Use quality chocolate – Opt for high-quality semi-sweet chocolate to ensure rich flavor in your brownies.
• Don’t overmix – Mix just until combined to keep your brownies fudgy and moist; overmixing can lead to a cake-like texture.
• Check baking time – Keep an eye on the baking time; removing the brownies when they are slightly underbaked will result in a softer texture.
• Cool properly – Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan before cutting; this helps them set up nicely and prevents crumbling.
• Experiment with toppings – Feel free to add nuts or different candies on top before baking for added texture and flavor variety.

Best Side Dishes for Little Debbie Brownies

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

1. Vanilla Ice Cream – A classic choice that complements the rich flavors of the brownies perfectly.
2. Chocolate Mousse – This airy dessert adds an indulgent touch without overpowering the brownie’s taste.
3. Fruit Salad – A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits offers a light contrast to the dense sweetness of the brownies.
4. Hot Fudge Sauce – Serve alongside for those who crave more chocolate; it’s perfect for drizzling on top.
5. Caramel Sauce – A drizzle of caramel can add a sweet, buttery flavor that pairs wonderfully with chocolate.
6. Coffee or Espresso – A cup of coffee enhances the flavors of chocolate and makes for a sophisticated pairing.
7. Milkshakes – Blend up some milkshakes to create an indulgent dessert experience when served together.
8. Churros – These cinnamon-sugar treats provide a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with soft brownies.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Little Debbie Brownies, it’s easy to overlook a few key steps. Here are some common mistakes to keep in mind.

• Incorrect flour measurement: Using too much or too little gluten-free flour can affect the texture. Always spoon and level the flour for accuracy.
• Skipping room temperature ingredients: Not bringing eggs and butter to room temperature can lead to uneven mixing. Be sure to set them out ahead of time.
• Overmixing the batter: Mixing too vigorously can create dense brownies. Mix just until combined for a lighter texture.
• Not using parchment paper: Skipping parchment paper can result in brownies sticking to the pan. Line your baking pan for easy removal.
• Ignoring cooling time: Cutting brownies before they cool can lead to messy pieces. Allow them to cool completely in the pan before slicing.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Little Debbie Brownies in an airtight container.
• They will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• Place parchment paper between layers if stacking to prevent sticking.

Freezing Little Debbie Brownies

• Wrap brownies tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• You can freeze them for up to 3 months.
• Make sure to label with the date for reference.

Reheating Little Debbie Brownies

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place brownies on a baking sheet and reheat for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat individual portions on medium power for about 15-20 seconds, checking frequently.
• Stovetop: Place a brownie on a skillet over low heat, cover, and heat for about 5 minutes until warm.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some commonly asked questions about making Little Debbie Brownies.

How do I achieve fudgy Little Debbie Brownies?

For fudgy brownies, avoid over-baking and ensure you use enough chocolate and fat in your recipe.

Can I make Little Debbie Brownies vegan?

Yes! Substitute eggs with flaxseed meal mixed with water or use applesauce as an egg replacement for a vegan version.

What is the best way to decorate Little Debbie Brownies?

Use miniature M&Ms or multicolored Sixlets on top of your brownies before they cool for fun decoration!

Why are my Little Debbie Brownies dry?

Dry brownies often result from overbaking or not measuring ingredients properly. Ensure you follow the recipe closely.

Can I use different types of chocolate in my Little Debbie Brownies?

Absolutely! You can experiment with dark chocolate or milk chocolate based on your preference.

Final Thoughts

These Little Debbie Brownies are a delightful treat that brings back childhood memories while being gluten-free! With their rich, fudgy texture and customizable toppings, they cater perfectly to any dessert craving. Try adding nuts or dried fruits for extra flavor!