Eyeball Brownies are a fun and spooky treat that’s perfect for Halloween or anytime you want a playful twist on classic brownies. These fudgy, chocolatey brownies get their quirky name and look from the icing or candy “eyeballs” placed on top, making them both creepy and cute. They’re rich, moist, and packed with that deep chocolate flavor everyone loves.
I love making these brownies with my family because the eyeball decorations are such a simple way to make baking feel creative and silly. It’s always a hit with kids and adults alike, and I find it’s a great way to bring a little extra joy and laughter to dessert time. Plus, if you don’t have eyeball candies on hand, I’ve found you can easily use simple round candies or even draw eyes with frosting and chocolate chips.
My favorite way to serve Eyeball Brownies is on a big platter at a Halloween party or just after dinner when everyone’s ready for a fun surprise. They’re perfect with a cold glass of milk or a cup of coffee. Whenever I make these, I can’t help but smile seeing those silly eyes staring back at me—it’s like the brownies have a little personality all their own!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Butter: Butter gives these brownies their rich, moist texture. If you prefer, you can substitute with equal parts coconut oil or a plant-based butter for a dairy-free version.
Sugar: Granulated sugar sweetens the brownies perfectly. You can try brown sugar for a slightly deeper flavor and chewier texture.
Eggs: Eggs help bind the batter and give structure. If you need an egg substitute, try flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water per egg).
Cocoa Powder: Use unsweetened cocoa powder for that intense chocolate taste. Dutch-process can be used if you like a mellower flavor but adjust baking powder accordingly.
Chocolate Chips: Optional but adds extra fudginess. Feel free to skip or swap with chunks of your favorite chocolate bar.
Candy Eyeballs: These are a fun decoration, but if you don’t have them, you can make simple eyes with white frosting and chocolate chips or colored icing.
How Do You Get Fudgy Brownies That Are Easy to Cut and Decorate?
Fudgy brownies can be tricky because they’re soft when warm. Here’s how I make sure they come out just right and look great with the eyeball topper:
- Don’t overbake: Check for moist crumbs on a toothpick instead of fully clean—it keeps brownies soft.
- Cool completely in the pan: This helps brownies firm up, making cutting easier without crumbling.
- Use a sharp knife: Warm the knife by running it under hot water and dry it before slicing to get clean edges.
- Press candy eyeballs gently on top: This ensures they stick without sinking into the brownies.
Equipment You’ll Need
- 9×13-inch baking pan – I like it because it’s the perfect size for even, fudgy brownies.
- Parchment paper or non-stick spray – makes removing the brownies easy and keeps them from sticking.
- Mixing bowls – for combining wet and dry ingredients smoothly.
- Wooden spoon or spatula – helps fold in ingredients and spread the batter evenly.
- Small saucepan – for melting butter gently on the stove.
- Cooling rack – to cool the brownies completely before decorating.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- White chocolate chips instead of semi-sweet for a sweeter, contrasting look.
- Swirl in peanut butter or caramel before baking for extra richness.
- Add chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for crunch and texture.
- Use colored frosting or candy for creative eye effects or different monsters.
How to Make Eyeball Brownies?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Brownies:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips (optional)
For The Decoration:
- Edible candy eyeballs or eyeball-shaped candies (about 12)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes for preparation and mixing, 25-30 minutes to bake, plus about 30 minutes for the brownies to cool completely before decorating. In total, you’ll need roughly 1 hour from start to finish.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare The Oven and Pan:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
2. Make The Brownie Batter:
In a medium saucepan over low heat, melt the butter. Once melted, remove from heat and stir in the sugar until well combined. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition, then stir in the vanilla extract.
3. Combine Dry Ingredients:
In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, salt, and baking powder. Gradually fold these dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring just until combined. If you want extra fudgy brownies, gently fold in the chocolate chips now.
4. Bake The Brownies:
Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pan and spread it out smoothly. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs but not wet. Avoid overbaking to keep them fudgy.
5. Cool and Decorate:
Remove the brownies from the oven and let them cool completely in the pan on a cooling rack. Once cool, cut into squares about 2 inches wide. Place one candy eyeball on top of each brownie square, pressing gently so it sticks.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Arrange your spooky eyeball brownies on a plate and serve! These treats are perfect for Halloween parties, fun family treats, or any time you want a little spooky fun with chocolate.
Can I Use Store-Bought Brownie Mix for This Recipe?
Yes! You can bake brownies from a store-bought mix and simply add the candy eyeballs on top once cooled. Just follow the package instructions for baking.
What If I Don’t Have Candy Eyeballs?
No worries! You can make simple eyes using white frosting or melted white chocolate as the whites and mini chocolate chips or black icing for the pupils.
How Should I Store Leftover Eyeball Brownies?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week. Bring to room temperature before serving for best texture.
Can I Make These Brownies Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Bake and cool the brownies a day ahead, then add the eyeball decorations just before serving to keep them looking fresh and fun.