Name: Spooky Halloween Brookies for a Fun Family Treat
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 38 min
Ingredients: 1 box Brownie mix (Use your favorite store-bought mix); 2 large Eggs (Fresh eggs for moist texture); 1/2 cup Oil (Vegetable or canola oil); 1 pack Pillsbury ghost-shaped sugar cookie dough; 1 cup Halloween M&M's

As I walked through the grocery store aisles, the vibrant colors of Halloween confections caught my eye—pumpkin-shaped candies, ghost decorations, and an array of spooky treats. It sparked the idea for my Halloween Brookies, a delightful mashup that combines fudgy brownies with whimsical ghost-shaped sugar cookies. Perfect for those crisp autumn nights, these treats not only come together in just 38 minutes but also give you a fun twist that will enchant both kids and adults alike. If you’re looking to elevate your dessert game while warding off the fast-food blues, this recipe is your golden ticket. Ready to dive into a Halloween-inspired baking adventure that’s not only delicious but also incredibly easy? Let’s get started!

Why are Halloween Brookies so irresistible?

Quick and Easy: With just 10 minutes of prep, you can whip up this delightful dessert. Perfect for busy schedules!
Spook-tacular Presentation: The combination of ghost-shaped cookies and colorful M&M's adds a festive flair that’ll impress your guests.
Fudgy Goodness: These brookies blend rich, decadent brownies with soft, sugary cookies for a bite that's simply heavenly.
Family Fun: Bake them together as a family; kids will love to help place the cookie shapes and M&M's.
Crowd Pleaser: Whether at a Halloween party or a cozy family gathering, everyone will rave about these treats. You can also check out my guide on easy Halloween recipes for more fun ideas!

Halloween Brookies Ingredients

• Get ready to create a magical treat!

For the Brownie Base

Brownie mix – Use your favorite store-bought mix for a quick and easy base.
Eggs – Fresh large eggs help give the brownies their moist texture.
Oil – Vegetable or canola oil keeps the brownies rich and fudgy.

For the Cookie Topping

Pillsbury ghost-shaped sugar cookie dough – Adds a whimsical flair and sweetness to the top of the brownie base.

For the Crunchy Sweetness

Halloween M&M's – These festive chocolate candies add a pop of color and crunch, making your Halloween Brookies even more delightful!

These simple ingredients come together to create an enchanting dessert that your family will love!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Halloween Brookies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin your Halloween Brookies by preheating your oven to 350 °F. This ensures that your treats will bake evenly, creating that perfect fudgy texture. While the oven warms up, gather your ingredients and grease a 9 x 13-inch baking pan with cooking spray or butter, preparing for the festive baking adventure ahead.

Step 2: Prepare the Brownie Batter
In a large mixing bowl, prepare the store-bought brownie mix according to the package instructions, usually by adding water, oil, and eggs. Stir until you have a smooth, rich batter—about 2 minutes of mixing. This step not only establishes the base of your Halloween Brookies but also fills your kitchen with a delightful aroma of chocolate.

Step 3: Add the M&M's to the Batter
Once the brownie batter is mixed, fold in ¼ cup of Halloween M&M's, allowing their vibrant colors to blend into the rich chocolate. This adds a fun crunch and sweetness to the fudgy brownies. Ensure the M&M's are evenly distributed for a delightful surprise in every bite.

Step 4: Spread the Brownie Batter
Pour the brownie batter into your greased baking pan, using a spatula to spread it evenly across the bottom. Ensure that it reaches the corners for uniform baking. You'll want a smooth top so that the spooky cookie layer can sit perfectly atop it—this is the base of your delicious Halloween Brookies.

Step 5: Add More M&M's
Sprinkle an additional handful of Halloween M&M's on top of the brownie batter. This not only gives a festive look but also adds extra chocolatey bits to each bite. The colorful candies will create a beautiful contrast against the dark brownie base, bringing in that playful Halloween spirit.

Step 6: Place the Sugar Cookies
Now, take 15 pieces of the Pillsbury ghost-shaped sugar cookie dough and evenly place them on top of the brownie batter. Space them out to allow for some spreading during baking. This whimsical addition transforms your brownies into Halloween Brookies, combining the best of both worlds in one delicious dessert.

Step 7: Bake to Perfection
Slide the baking pan into your preheated oven and bake for 28-30 minutes. Keep an eye on the edges, which will become slightly crispy, while the center remains fudgy. When a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with just a few crumbs, remove your Halloween Brookies from the oven to finish baking.

Step 8: Cool and Serve
Once baked, allow your Halloween Brookies to cool in the pan for at least 15 minutes. This resting time helps them set up perfectly, making for easier slicing. When ready, cut them into squares, and enjoy the delightful blend of brownie and cookie as you celebrate this spooky season!

Halloween Brookies Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to let your creativity soar with these delightful tweaks, making your Halloween Brookies even more magical!

Gluten-Free: Substitute the brownie mix with a gluten-free blend and be sure the sugar cookie dough is also gluten-free for everyone to enjoy.
Dairy-Free: Use a dairy-free brownie mix and coconut-based sugar cookie dough to accommodate lactose-intolerant friends while keeping the treats delicious!
Nutty Addition: Add ½ cup of chopped walnuts or pecans into the brownie batter for a delightful crunch that complements the rich chocolate flavor.
Spicy Kick: Toss in a pinch of cayenne pepper or cinnamon to the brownie batter for a warming, spicy twist that adds a surprising depth of flavor.
Candy Crush: Mix in crumbled Halloween candies like Reese's or Snickers instead of M&M's for an indulgent twist that'll make these treats even more decadent.
Halloween Sprinkles: Add festive Halloween-themed sprinkles on top before baking to introduce a colorful pop that'll capture the spirit of the season!
Frosted Finish: Top the cooled brookies with a light layer of cream cheese frosting for an extra-rich dessert that feels indulgent and special.
Chewy Chocolate Chunk: Swap out the M&M's for chocolate chunks or chips in the brownie batter and scattered on top for a gooey texture everyone will love.

Explore these variations to create your perfect Halloween Brookies, and don’t forget to check out my guide on easy Halloween recipes and other whimsical treats that can brighten your festive gatherings!

How to Store and Freeze Halloween Brookies

Room Temperature: Store your Halloween Brookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to keep them fresh and delicious.

Fridge: For slightly longer storage, keep them in the fridge for up to a week. Allow them to come to room temperature before serving for the best taste.

Freezer: Freeze uneaten Halloween Brookies by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer bag. They can last for up to 3 months.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw the frozen Brookies in the fridge overnight and reheat in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds for a fresh-from-the-oven taste.

Expert Tips for Halloween Brookies

Check the Batter: Make sure to mix the brownie batter just until combined, avoiding overmixing, which can result in dense brownies instead of fudginess.
Cookie Placement: Space out the ghost-shaped cookies on the brownie base to allow for spreading; this will help maintain the cookie shape while baking.
Monitor Baking Time: Keep an eye on the brookies as they bake, checking them at the 25-minute mark to avoid over-baking. A toothpick should come out with a few crumbs for the perfect fudgy texture.
Cool Before Cutting: Allow the Halloween Brookies to cool for at least 15 minutes in the pan before cutting. This helps them set, making them easier to slice into perfect squares.
Experiment with Mix-ins: Feel free to add nuts or different types of candy to the brownie batter for added texture and fun variations—creativity is key!

Make Ahead Options

These Halloween Brookies are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts, saving you time on busy weeknights! You can prepare the brownie batter and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Simply mix the ingredients as directed, fold in the M&M's, and cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap to keep it fresh. You can also place the ghost-shaped sugar cookies on top of the brownie batter up to 3 days in advance—just ensure you refrigerate them as well. When ready to bake, preheat your oven, pour the chilled brownie mixture into the pan with the cookie topping, and bake as instructed. This way, you'll have scrumptious Halloween Brookies that are just as delicious with minimal effort!

What to Serve with Halloween Brookies

Elevate your spooky dessert experience with these delightful pairings that will enchant your taste buds and gather everyone around the table.

Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream adds a smooth, cool contrast to the warm, fudgy brookies, creating a comforting combination.
Pumpkin Spice Latte: Embrace the fall season with this cozy drink. The warm spices enhance the sweet flavors of the Halloween Brookies, making each bite even more enjoyable.
Caramel Sauce Drizzle: A light drizzle of rich caramel on top will add a heavenly sweetness, enhancing the brookies’ goodness and providing a lovely stickiness.
Whipped Cream: Fluffy and light, a dollop of whipped cream perfectly balances the richness of the brownie and adds an inviting touch to your dessert presentation.
Chocolate Milk: This classic drink brings nostalgia to the table. Its creamy texture and chocolatey taste make it a fabulous match for the chocolatey brookies.
Cranberry Salad: Brighten up your dessert table with a refreshing cranberry salad. The tartness contrasts beautifully with the sweetness of the Brookies, adding a delightful burst of flavor.
Hot Apple Cider: Cozy up with warm apple cider, infused with spices. Its comforting aroma and taste complement the festive spirit of Halloween and the chocolatey dessert.

Delight in these pairings that transform your Halloween Brookies into a whimsical feast for family and friends!

Halloween Brookies Recipe FAQs

What type of brownie mix should I use?
Absolutely! You can use any store-bought brownie mix that you enjoy—fudge, chocolate, or even a low-fat option if you prefer. What matters is that it creates a rich base that complements the sweetness of the ghost cookies and chocolate M&M's beautifully.

How should I store leftover Halloween Brookies?
To keep your Halloween Brookies fresh and tasty, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you prefer them a bit colder, you can also refrigerate them for up to a week. Just remember to bring them back to room temperature before enjoying for the best flavor!

Can I freeze Halloween Brookies?
Absolutely! If you want to save some for later, wrap the uneaten Halloween Brookies tightly in plastic wrap. Then, place them in a freezer bag. They’ll stay good for up to 3 months. When you're ready to indulge, simply thaw them in the fridge overnight and reheat them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds to bring back that fresh-baked warmth.

What if my brownie edges are too crispy?
Very! If you find the edges of your Halloween Brookies are getting too crispy, it's likely a sign they’ve been in the oven a little too long. For next time, keep an eye on them and start checking for doneness at around 25 minutes using a toothpick—it should come out with just a few crumbs for that ideal fudgy texture!

Are Halloween Brookies safe for pets?
Definitely! Since these treats are made with sugar and chocolate, which can be harmful to pets, it’s best to keep them away from furry friends. If you're looking for pet-friendly treats to bake, consider making some special cookies just for them instead!