Name: Marshmallow Ghost Brownies for a Spooky Sweet Halloween Treat
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 60 min
Ingredients: 1 can Cooking Spray; 1 cup All-Purpose Flour (Use gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version.); 1 teaspoon Pumpkin Pie Spice (Optional, can be omitted.); 1 teaspoon Baking Powder; ½ teaspoon Kosher Salt; 1 cup Semisweet Chocolate Chips (Use dark chocolate for extra depth.); ½ cup Unsalted Butter; ½ cup Unsweetened Cocoa Powder; 1 cup Sugar (Consider coconut sugar for a healthier twist.); ½ cup Pumpkin Puree; 2 large Eggs (At room temperature.); 1 teaspoon Pure Vanilla Extract (Opt for alcohol-free for a cleaner taste.); 2 tablespoons Unflavored Gelatin; 1 cup Granulated Sugar; 1 tube Store-Bought Black Piping Frosting (Use for decorating.)

As the crisp autumn air creeps in, it’s time to embrace the Halloween spirit with a treat that’s both enchanting and delicious: Marshmallow Ghost Brownies. These delightful brownies get a seasonal twist from pumpkin puree, making them incredibly moist and fudgy—perfect for satisfying those sweet cravings. Topped with whimsical marshmallow ghosts, they are sure to be the highlight of any Halloween gathering. Not only are these treats a fun activity to make with your loved ones, but they also double as a crowd-pleaser that’s both family-friendly and a spooky addition to your dessert table. Ready to create some magic in the kitchen? Let’s make these ghostly delights come to life!

Why Are These Ghost Brownies Spooktacular?

Irresistible flavor: The combination of pumpkin puree and rich chocolate creates a moist and fudgy delight that is simply unforgettable.
Family-friendly fun: Baking these brownies is a perfect activity for families, allowing everyone to join in on the Halloween spirit!
Eye-catching presentation: With adorable marshmallow ghosts, these brownies are a treat that’s as fun to look at as they are to eat.
Versatile twists: Feel free to experiment by using cinnamon instead of pumpkin pie spice or swapping pumpkin with applesauce for a lighter option.
Effortless preparation: The straightforward steps make it easy for novice bakers to whip these up in no time! Pair these with some Patriotic Star Brownies for a themed dessert table that will leave your guests in awe!

Marshmallow Ghost Brownies Ingredients

For the Brownies
• Cooking Spray – A must to prevent sticking and ensure the brownies pop out easily from the pan.
• All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure; for a gluten-free version, swap it with a gluten-free flour blend.
• Pumpkin Pie Spice – Infuses that seasonal warmth; can be omitted for classic brownie flavor.
• Baking Powder – A little lift for a lighter brownie texture.
• Kosher Salt – A pinch enhances the overall flavor beautifully.
• Semisweet Chocolate Chips – For rich chocolate goodness; use dark chocolate for extra depth.
• Unsalted Butter – Contributes to that moisture and richness we all crave.
• Unsweetened Cocoa Powder – Adds robust chocolate flavor; vital for stunning color.
• Sugar – Sweetens the deal; consider coconut sugar for a healthier twist.
• Pumpkin Puree – Keeps brownies moist and imparts a delightful hint of fall flavor.
• Large Eggs – Essential for structure and moisture; ensure they’re at room temperature for the best results.
• Pure Vanilla Extract – Elevates flavor; opt for alcohol-free for a cleaner taste.

For the Marshmallows
• Unflavored Gelatin – Helps stabilize and shape those cute ghostly figures.
• Granulated Sugar – Vital for sweetness and the perfect marshmallow texture.
• Store-Bought Black Piping Frosting – Use for decorating; homemade frosting can bring an added personal touch.

Get ready to embrace the Halloween spirit with these Marshmallow Ghost Brownies that are as fun to create as they are to devour!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Marshmallow Ghost Brownies

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven heats, generously spray a 9×13-inch baking pan with cooking spray and dust it with flour, preventing the brownies from sticking. Set the prepared pan aside as you gather the rest of your ingredients for these delightful Marshmallow Ghost Brownies.

Step 2: Melt the Chocolate Mixture
In a medium saucepan over low heat, melt 1 cup of semisweet chocolate chips and ½ cup of unsalted butter together. Stir continuously until the mixture is smooth and glossy, about 5 minutes. Once melted, promptly remove from heat and let it cool slightly before combining it with the remaining ingredients for an indulgent brownie base.

Step 3: Combine the Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled chocolate mixture with 1 cup of sugar, ½ cup of pumpkin puree, 2 large eggs (at room temperature), and 1 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract. Mix until well blended and uniform in consistency. The combination will lend moisture and depth to your Marshmallow Ghost Brownies while creating a deliciously rich flavor.

Step 4: Add the Dry Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk together 1 cup of all-purpose flour, ½ cup of unsweetened cocoa powder, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, ½ teaspoon of kosher salt, and 1 teaspoon of pumpkin pie spice. Gradually fold this dry mixture into the wet ingredients with a spatula until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep your brownies fudgy and inviting.

Step 5: Bake the Brownies
Pour the brownie batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The enticing aroma will fill your kitchen as the brownies bake, signaling it’s almost time for your spooky creation to be completed!

Step 6: Cool the Brownies
Once baked, remove the brownies from the oven and allow them to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Afterward, gently lift them out using the parchment edges (if used) or slide them onto a wire rack to cool completely. This step is crucial before adding the marshmallow ghosts, ensuring they set properly on your delicious Marshmallow Ghost Brownies.

Step 7: Prepare the Marshmallows
In a saucepan, combine 1 cup of granulated sugar and ½ cup of water over medium heat. Stir until dissolved and bring to a boil. Cook until the mixture reaches 240°F (115°C) on a candy thermometer. Remove from heat and quickly mix in 2 tablespoons of unflavored gelatin until fully dissolved. Let the mixture cool slightly before piping it onto the brownies.

Step 8: Pipe the Ghost Shapes
When the marshmallow mixture cools to a manageable temperature, using a piping bag fitted with a round tip, carefully pipe ghost shapes on top of the cooled brownies. Work quickly, as the marshmallow mixture will start to set. Create different sizes and shapes for a fun display of ghostly treats atop your Marshmallow Ghost Brownies.

Step 9: Decorate the Ghosts
Once the marshmallow has set for about 20-30 minutes, use store-bought black piping frosting to draw eyes and mouths on each ghost for a spooky effect. The playful decorations will bring your Marshmallow Ghost Brownies to life, adding the perfect Halloween touch for your gathering or family delight.

What to Serve with Marshmallow Ghost Brownies?

Bring your spooktacular dessert to life by pairing it with delightful companions that enhance the Halloween spirit!

Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream offers a rich, refreshing contrast to the fudgy brownies, balancing flavors perfectly.
Spiced Apple Cider: Warm, spiced apple cider envelopes your senses with the comforting essence of fall. This drink complements the pumpkin flavor beautifully.
Whipped Cream: Light and fluffy whipped cream invites a delightful creaminess that enhances the brownies’ rich chocolate and pumpkin notes, making each bite heavenly.
Pumpkin Spice Hot Chocolate: Cozy up with a cup of this seasonal treat; its sweetness and warmth intertwine joyfully with the flavors of your brownies.
Candy Corn: Add a festive touch with colorful candy corn. Their sweet crunch brings a playful texture that contrasts with the soft brownies.
Chocolate Drizzle: Elevate your brownies further with a glossy drizzle of melted chocolate, transforming each piece into a decadent masterpiece.
Peanut Butter Swirl: Swirl in some creamy peanut butter atop brownies for a nutty flavor explosion that pairs well with pumpkin and chocolate.
Festive Fruit Platter: Serve with a vibrant fruit platter featuring apples, pears, and seasonal berries, creating a refreshing balance of flavors and textures.
Ghostly Milkshakes: Make whimsical milkshakes decorated like ghosts; their creamy sweetness pairs splendidly with the rich brownie texture for a fun drink option.

Marshmallow Ghost Brownies Variations

Feel free to put your personal twist on these delightful brownies and make them even more enchanting!

Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour for a deliciously inclusive treat. Your guests won’t even notice the difference!
Dairy-Free: Swap unsalted butter for coconut oil or vegan butter. This will keep the brownies moist while catering to dairy sensitivities.
Low-Sugar: Replace regular sugar with monk fruit sweetener or stevia to lower the sugar content while still keeping the sweetness.
Nutty Crunch: Add chopped walnuts or pecans to the brownie batter for an extra layer of flavor and a delightful crunch.
Fruit Infusion: Introduce a swirl of raspberry or cherry jam in the brownie batter before baking to add a fruity, tart contrast to the chocolate.
Flavor Twist: Swap pumpkin puree with applesauce for a light and fruity version that’s just as moist and delicious. It’s like a friendly ghost of fall!
White Chocolate Variation: Use white chocolate chips instead of semisweet for a sweeter twist that pairs perfectly with the marshmallow topping.
Heat it Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or espresso powder for a subtle kick and rich depth of flavor that will surprise your taste buds.

For more festive ideas, check out these Covered Pretzel Brownies that provide a salty-sweet balance for Halloween gatherings. Together with some charming Patriotic Star Brownies, you can create a dessert table that steals the spotlight!

Make Ahead Options

These Marshmallow Ghost Brownies are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can bake the brownies up to 3 days in advance; simply allow them to cool completely, then store them in an airtight container at room temperature for optimal moisture. Additionally, you can prepare the marshmallow mixture ahead of time, allowing it to set overnight in the refrigerator, ensuring a fluffy texture. When you’re ready to serve, just pipe the ghost shapes onto the cooled brownies and apply the black frosting for decoration. By prepping ahead, you’ll save time on busy Halloween nights while still impressing your family and friends with these spooktacular treats, just as delicious as if freshly made!

Expert Tips for Marshmallow Ghost Brownies

Temperature Check: Always use a candy thermometer to ensure your sugar mixture reaches 240°F for perfect marshmallows, preventing any sticky disasters.
Piping Practice: Work swiftly when piping the ghosts, as the marshmallow mixture sets quickly. Consider practicing on parchment paper first if you’re unsure!
Egg Temperature: Use eggs at room temperature for a smoother batter; cold eggs can lead to a less fluffy brownie texture.
Weigh Your Ingredients: If you want consistent results, consider weighing your dry ingredients, especially flour, for accuracy and the ultimate fudgy brownies.
Prep Ahead: Bake your brownies a day in advance for a more intense flavor, topping them with marshmallows on the day you serve your Marshmallow Ghost Brownies.

Storage Tips for Marshmallow Ghost Brownies

Room Temperature: Keep your brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain their softness and flavor.

Fridge: For longer freshness, refrigerate the brownies in an airtight container for up to 1 week; let them come to room temperature before serving for the best taste.

Freezer: Freeze leftovers for up to 3 months. Wrap each brownie individually in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil, to prevent freezer burn.

Reheating: To enjoy warm brownies, microwave individual pieces for 15-20 seconds, ensuring they stay moist and delicious when serving your Marshmallow Ghost Brownies.

Marshmallow Ghost Brownies Recipe FAQs

What type of pumpkin puree should I use?
I recommend using canned pumpkin puree for convenience, but if you’re feeling adventurous, you can roast and puree fresh pumpkins for a homemade version. Just make sure it’s pure pumpkin without additives or spices, ensuring a smooth texture and perfect flavor.

How should I store leftover Marshmallow Ghost Brownies?
Absolutely! Store your brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want them to last longer, refrigerate them for up to a week. Just let them sit at room temperature for a while before indulging, as this helps revive their lovely texture.

Can I freeze Marshmallow Ghost Brownies?
Yes, you can! To freeze, wrap each brownie individually in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil, making sure there are no air pockets. They will maintain their deliciousness for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply let them thaw at room temperature or pop them in the microwave for a delightful warm-up!

What if I run into trouble while making marshmallows?
If your marshmallow mixture doesn’t set properly, it might not have reached the right temperature or may have been over-whipped. Make sure to use a candy thermometer to double-check that your sugar syrup reaches 240°F (115°C). When piping, if the mixture begins to thicken too much, try heating it gently on low until it’s manageable again before continuing to pipe.

Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
Definitely! If you’re serving these brownies to guests, keep in mind that they contain eggs and might not be suitable for those with egg allergies. For a pet-friendly environment, make sure to keep these away from dogs, as chocolate can be toxic to them. Always check your frosting and gelatin brands too for any allergens that might be specific to your guests!