Brownies with Chocolate Ganache and Sprinkles

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These brownies with chocolate ganache and sprinkles are are a super simple dessert to make when you want something fun, easy, and pretty without a lot of extra work. Since they start with a box mix brownie base, they come together with very little effort but still feel special enough for birthdays, parties, or just a sweet weekend treat. The smooth chocolate ganache on top adds an extra layer of richness, while the sprinkles make them feel bright and festive. If you love easy baked goods that look a little more dressed up, this is such a good recipe to keep on hand. They’re also perfect for those times when you need last minute desserts but still want something homemade.

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Ingredients for Brownies with Ganache and Sprinkles

Brownie base

1 box brownie mix (for an 8×8 or 9×9 pan)
Oil, eggs, and water as called for on the box

Thick ganache topping

1 cup semi sweet chocolate chips
1/2 cup heavy cream

Finish

Rainbow sprinkles jimmies, confetti, or any cute mix you like (avoid sanding sugar sprinkle, because it dissolves into the ganache)

These brownies are the perfect the kind of last-minute desserts with few ingredients when you want something pretty without a ton of work!

How to Make Brownies with Ganache and Sprinkles

1. Line an 8×8 or 9×9 baking pan with parchment and leave a little overhang on two sides; it makes lifting and slicing so much easier. Lightly spray or grease the pan.

2. In a bowl, prepare the brownie mix according to the box directions using the oil, eggs, and water listed. Stir just until combined so the brownies stay fudgy, not cakey.

3. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread it into an even layer. Bake according to the box directions for an 8×8 or 9×9 pan. When a toothpick inserted near the center comes out with a few moist crumbs (but not raw batter), they are done.

Place the pan on a cooling rack and let the brownies cool completely. This is important so the ganache sets properly.

brownie batter in a square pan lined with parchment paper

4. Make the ganache: Add the chocolate chips and heavy cream to a microwave-safe bowl.

Microwave in 30-second increments, stirring in between. I usually only have to microwave mine for a minute total. Then, keep stirring until all of the chocolate is dissolved into the cream and everything is smooth (it does take quite a bit of stirring!).

5. Let the ganache sit at room temperature for 5-10 minutes, stirring every few minutes, until it has thickened to a spreadable consistency. You want it a little thicker than warm fudge sauce but still soft enough to glide over the brownies.

6. Once the ganache and brownies are fully cooled, pour the thickened ganache over the top of the brownies. Use an offset spatula or the back of a spoon to spread it into an even layer, all the way to the corners.

chocolate ganache spread over bake brownies

7. Immediately add your spring sprinkles on top so they stick to the soft ganache. I like to go a little heavy with sprinkles for a really festive, spring desserts look.

8. Let the pan sit at room temperature for 30 to 60 minutes so the ganache firms up. If you want extra clean cuts or you are in a hurry, chill the pan in the fridge for 15 to 30 minutes until the top is set but not rock hard.

9. If you used parchment, lift the entire slab of brownies out of the pan onto a cutting board. Use a sharp knife to cut into squares or rectangles. Wipe the knife clean between cuts for picture perfect edges.

Serve at room temperature for the softest, fudgiest texture.

sprinkles on top of wet chocolate ganache

brownies with ganache and sprinkles sliced into squares

Pro Tips

Go for fudgy not cakey. Bake your brownies until there are just a few moist crumbs on the toothpick. This doesn’t mean they’re undercooked! As long as your toothpick doesn’t come out with blatantly raw batter sitting on it, you’re good. The brownies will continue to set as they cool in the pan.
Room temperature brownies are key. If the brownies are even slightly warm, the ganache can slide around or soak in. I like to bake the brownies in the morning, let them cool, then add ganache later in the day.
Quick ganache fix: If your ganache looks too thin, let it sit longer to thicken. If it looks too thick, warm a tablespoon or two of cream and stir it in until you reach a spreadable consistency.
Plan ahead for parties. These are perfect easy baked goods to make the day before an event. Bake, cool, top with ganache and sprinkles, then cover and refrigerate. Bring to room temperature before serving.
Easy slicing trick: For super neat slices, chill the brownies briefly, then cut with a large sharp knife. Run the knife under hot water and dry it between cuts.

FAQs

Can I use any brand of brownie mix?

Yes. Use your favorite brand. Just follow the package directions for the eggs, oil, and water, and use an 8×8 or 9×9 pan.

Can I use homemade brownies?

Of course you can! This is my favorite recipe for homemade brownies in an 8×8 or 9×9 pan.

Can I use milk chocolate instead of semi sweet?

You can. Milk chocolate will make the ganache sweeter and a little softer. If it seems too thin, let it sit longer or add a small handful of extra chocolate chips while it is still warm and stir until melted.

Do these Springtime Brownies need to be refrigerated?

They can sit at room temperature for a day in a covered container, especially if your kitchen is cool. For longer storage, I keep them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days, then bring them to room temperature before serving.

Can I freeze these?

Yes. Chill the brownies until the ganache is firm, then slice and layer them in an airtight container with parchment between layers. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge, then bring to room temperature before serving.

If you need a dessert that feels a little extra without making things complicated, these brownies with chocolate ganache and sprinkles are such a fun option. Using a box mix keeps them quick and easy, while the ganache and sprinkles make them look bakery-worthy with hardly any extra effort. They’re great for parties, holidays, or anytime you want one of those reliable simple desserts everyone gets excited about. This is one of those easy baked goods I know I’ll come back to again and again.