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Spooky Halloween Chili-Black Cocoa Brownies

These dark, fudgy brownies feature a secret swirl of smoky chili and black cocoa, creating a rich, mysterious flavor with a hint of heat. The batter is mixed until smooth, then baked to a glossy, oozy center with a crackling sugar topping and a spooky swirl pattern. They are perfect for Halloween parties, offering a playful, indulgent treat that looks as wicked as it tastes.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 12
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 250
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter
  • 1 cup dark chocolate chunks (70% cacao)
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 3/4 cup black cocoa powder smoky, dark cocoa
  • 1/4 teaspoon chili powder adds subtle heat
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional) for smoky depth
  • 1/2 cup sour cream for swirl
  • few drops black food coloring black food coloring for spooky swirl

Equipment

  • 9-inch square pan
  • Mixing bowls
  • Rubber spatula
  • Whisk
  • Measuring cups & spoons
  • Silicone scraper
  • Knife or toothpick

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) and generously grease the pan or line it with parchment paper.
  2. Melt the butter and dark chocolate together in a microwave or double boiler until smooth and glossy, then set aside to cool slightly.
  3. In a large bowl, whisk the eggs and sugar until frothy and slightly pale, filling the kitchen with a sweet, inviting aroma.
  4. Stir in the vanilla extract into the egg mixture, blending until well combined.
  5. Pour the cooled chocolate mixture into the egg mixture, folding gently until smooth and unified.
  6. Sift together the black cocoa, chili powder, and smoked paprika, then gradually fold these dry ingredients into the wet batter until just combined, creating a dark, velvety mixture.
  7. Gently fold in the chocolate chunks, distributing them evenly throughout the batter.
  8. Pour the batter into your prepared pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula for a smooth surface.
  9. Mix the sour cream with black food coloring to create a dark swirl, then dollop spoonfuls onto the batter’s surface.
  10. Use a skewer or toothpick to gently swirl the sour cream into the batter, creating a spooky, marbled effect.
  11. Bake in the preheated oven for 20–25 minutes, until the edges are set and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out moist but not battering.
  12. Allow the brownies to cool in the pan for about 15 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing to reveal the dark, spooky swirl inside.

Notes

For extra spooky effect, sprinkle with edible glitter or dust with powdered sugar before serving.