Frosted Brownies

with Quick Cocoa Honey Frosting

These frosted brownies are a classic, easy dessert made with simple pantry ingredients and a rich cocoa flavor. The brownie base comes together quickly after melting butter and mixing everything in one bowl, making this recipe approachable for beginner and intermediate bakers alike. Baked in a square pan, the brownies develop a soft, chewy center with lightly crisp edges.
While the brownies bake, the frosting is prepared using cocoa powder, powdered sugar, honey, and a splash of milk for smoothness. Making the frosting during bake time keeps the process efficient and minimizes downtime in the kitchen. A stand mixer or hand mixer works well here, and the consistency can be easily adjusted to your preference.
Spreading the frosting over warm brownies allows it to glide on effortlessly and set into a smooth, glossy layer. This step adds a bakery-style finish without requiring extra chilling or complicated techniques. For best results, wait just a few minutes after baking so the brownies are warm but not piping hot.
These frosted brownies are ideal for family gatherings, potlucks, or simple weeknight desserts. For cleaner slices, let the brownies cool fully before cutting, or refrigerate briefly if needed. Store leftovers in an airtight container to keep them moist and chocolatey for days.

1. Preheat and prepare panPreheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line an 8 to 9 inch square pan with parchment paper.Lining the pan reduces cleanup and prevents sticking.

2. Mix brownie batterMelt butter in a saucepan or microwave. Stir in sugar, eggs, and vanilla, then mix in cocoa powder, flour, salt, and baking powder until just combined.Avoid overmixing to keep the brownies tender.

3. Bake browniesSpread batter evenly into the prepared pan and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, until a toothpick comes out with moist crumbs.A few moist crumbs mean the brownies will stay chewy.

4. Prepare frosting while bakingUsing a mixer, combine softened butter, cocoa powder, honey, vanilla, and powdered sugar. Mix on low, then add milk one tablespoon at a time until smooth.Adjust milk slowly to control frosting thickness.

5. Frost warm browniesLet brownies rest for about 5 minutes after baking, then spread frosting evenly over the warm surface.Warm brownies help the frosting spread smoothly.

6. Cool and serveAllow brownies to cool fully before slicing and serving.

Butter1/2 cup

- Dairy

white sugar1 cup

- baking aisle

Eggs2 each

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All-Purpose Flour1/2 cup

- Baking

Salt1/4 tsp

- Spices

baking powder1/4 tsp

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Unsalted butter3 tbsp

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cocoa powder3 tbsp

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Honey1 tbsp

- Condiments

Vanilla Extract1 tsp

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powdered sugar1 cup

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Milk3 tbsp

- Dairy

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