How to make boxed brownies better was always the question I asked myself every-time I followed the exact instructions on the back of a brownie mix box. The brownie itself tasted good but it wasn’t good enough… It wasn’t as good as a homemade brownie or a bakery style brownie. But with these 10 secrets on how to make boxed brownies better, you will have boxed brownies that taste like they came from the best bakery ever!
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Can we all take a moment of silence because this article is the holy grail for all your doctored up brownie mix needs!! I actually was not able to believe that the brownies I made were from a box! They tasted as homemade as can be and that’s exactly what I want you to get out of this article.
Brownies! The most American dessert ever. The dessert that I a pretty much can’t get enough of year round… Because well it’s chocolate and I am utterly obsessed with chocolate.
Unfortunately, being busy all the time, I don’t always have the energy or the time to make brownies from scratch so that’s when this one bowl brownie made from boxed mix comes into play.
These are the 10 best brownie mix hacks ever!
In this article I will be sharing the 10 best brownie mix hacks ever to help you turn any boring old boxed brownie into something that tastes homemade… Or even purchased from a high end bakery!
The first time I made this better tasting boxed brownie recipe, I was definitely skeptical. I couldn’t help but think that the brownies will not turn out as good because well.. It’s freaking box mix!
To my surprise the brownies turned out amazing and they didn’t even taste like they were made out of boxed brownie mix so if you ever have some brownie mix laying around, I urge you to try this recipe!
What makes this how to make boxed brownies better article so special?
You might have asked yourself this question before you clicked on here, and that’s a totally fair thought to have. But here is what makes this article different from all the other ones you might’ve seen online.
- It starts with boxed brownie mix but taste like a from scratch brownie recipe!
- Each brownie slice is extremely fudgy
- This boxed brownie recipe has a depth of flavor like no other!
- Don’t have time? This doctored up brownie mix brownie recipe takes less than 10 minutes of hands on work.
- It’s the perfect dessert to make for family gatherings or summer BBQs.
The 10 best kept secrets on how to make boxed brownies better!
Here are a few of my favorite boxed brownie hacks. They are ranked based on how helpful they are to making boxed brownies taste better. I would take a few of these brownie mix hacks and play around with them until you create your perfect box mix brownie recipe!
1- Start with good brownie mix!
This first tip sounds like a given, but I can’t tell you how many times I have gotten the wrong brownie mix and ended up with something that tasted like chemicals and despair.
One of my favorite brownie mixes to start with will have to be the Ghirardelli double or triple chocolate brownie mix or the Ghirardelli chocolate supreme.
Using a good brownie mix to start will make your final doctored up brownies taste even better!
2- Use butter instead of oil
Butter, butter, butter. My number one love when it comes to baking. Most brownie mix boxes suggest that you use oil but to add more richness to your brownie mix brownies, opt for melted butter.
Bonus points if it’s really good quality butter!
3- Use egg yolks instead of a whole egg
As a rule of thumb, you should know that 2 egg yolks make a whole egg. I love using 2 egg yolks instead of one whole egg in my boxed brownie recipe because it increases the fat content of the brownies and keeps them way more fudgy.
This is a simple swap that will yield amazing results! For those extra egg white you can make some meringue cookies
4- Use milk or heavy cream instead of water
When it comes to making brownies fudgy, you want to increase the fat of the brownie batter and that’s where the milk or heavy cream comes in to play.
If you think about it, adding in water to your brownie mix is boring. It doesn’t add anything special to the recipe while the milk or heavy cream both add some depth, some richness, and extra fat for the perfect ooey gooey brownie slice.
5- Use hot brewed coffee instead of water
You know what’s a match made in heaven? Coffee and chocolate! Many chocolate cake recipes require you to add hot brewed coffee into the cake mix to give it that intense chocolate flavor.
Same for these brownie mix brownies, using coffee instead of plain old water will help intensify the chocolate flavor and make them even better.
Keep reading for more tips on how to make boxed brownies better!
6- Add some vanilla extract
Adding vanilla might seem a bit odd especially since we are talking about chocolate brownies. But trust me, the vanilla extract will add an extra depth of flavor that will also enhance the other ingredients in the brownie, AKA the chocolate!!
7- Add s little salt to the boxed brownie batter, and sprinkle some more on top while you’re at it!
If you have ready my recipes before, you will notice that I always add some salt to my baked goods to balance out the sweetness of whatever I am baking.
Same goes for these boxed brownies. Adding a little bit of salt to the batter will add an interesting deep chocolate flavor without being too sweet.
Bonus points if you sprinkle some sea salt on top because you were feeling fancy!
8- Add in Espresso powder or instant coffee
This brownie mix hack is very similar to the one where you can add hot coffee instead of water. But I especially like this one because it allows you to add coffee to get that depth of flavor while also adding milk as the liquid to add richness and extra fat to make your boxed brownies more fudgy.
To use this hack, add 1-2 teaspoon of espresso powder or instant coffee to your brownie mix batter and enjoy that intense chocolate flavor!
9- Avoid over-mixing your boxed brownie mix batter
This is a tip that I live by when it comes to cakes and cookies but surprisingly enough, it applies to brownies too!
Over mixing your brownie batter will result in a dense and not fudgy brownie so mix just until the dry mixture disappears, transfer to your baking pan and bake right away.
10- Change up the baking directions for low and slow bake. This yields an extremely fudgy brownie.
Not all boxed brownie mix are created equal, and many of them have different baking instructions. My favorite way to bake boxed brownie mix is to lower the heat to 325F and bake the brownies for 40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted about an inch from the edge comes out clean or with a few dry crumbs.
Want to take your brownie mix up a notch?!
Here are a few extra tips to take your brownie mix up a notch and make them even more special!
- Top with chocolate ganache and berries
- Swirl peanut butter caramel, or Nutella before baking.
- Add some mix-ins (chocolate chips, nuts, coconut…)
- Top with frosting for a festive brownie recipe
- Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream
I would love to hear more ideas that you might use to make your brownies extra special in the comments below!
Here are a few more brownie recipes you will love!
- The Best Brownies With Cake Mix
- The best Fudgy 1-minute Brownie Mug Cake
- Small Batch Brownie Cookie Recipe
Extra tips on how to make boxed brownies better!
How many eggs should I put in box brownies?
The back fo the brownie mix box usually asks for 2 eggs and that’s what I like to stick with because I prefer a fudgy brownie. You can also use 2 eggs and an egg yolk to increase the fat amount in the brownie which will then result in a fudgy brownie.
Make sure to use room temperature eggs though to allow everything to get incorporated together better.
What pan should I bake my brownies in?
I have baked my brownies in a glass pan as well as a metal pan. I personally prefer my USA Pan because it is lighter in color and gives me the perfect sharp edges.
If you are baking in a glass pan, add about 4-5 minutes of bake time because it takes a little longer to heat up.
Also, try and bake in a lighter colored pan because it will distribute heat more evenly. If you don’t have anything that’s lighter, reduce your baking time by a few minutes.
How to cut brownies cleanly?
This one is one of my favorite bets kept secrets ever! The biggest thing when it comes to cutting brownie slices just like food bloggers is to chill your brownies in the fridge for an hour or more before slicing into them.
Then use a long knife to cut into the brownies, making sure to wipe the knife down with a damp towel between each slice! This is super important especially if your brownie is more on the fudgy side.
How to freeze boxed brownies?
This all depends on if you want to freeze your brownies before or after slicing into them.
If you want to freeze the brownie whole, wrap it tightly in aluminum foil then place it in an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months.
If you want to freeze the sliced brownies, wrap each one individually in aluminum foil then place them all in an airtight container and back in the freezer for up to 3 months.
Once you’re ready to enjoy them, pull them out of the freezer and let them thaw in the fridge overnight! I always like to pop them in the microwave for a few seconds for that extra fudgy texture!
Ingredients you need to make boxed brownies better!
Here are the ingredients you will need to make the best brownie out of boxed mix. Make sure to scroll down to the recipe card for the detailed recipe.
- brownie mix– Start with very good quality brownie mix to the ultimate lazy girl brownie recipe.
- Egg yolks– You will need to use egg yolks instead of the egg to increase the fat content of this recipe and make it more fudgy.
- Hot coffee– The hot brewed coffee is the perfect swap for the water that is required in the recipe. It intensifies the chocolate flavor.
- Vanilla extract– The vanilla extract will add depth of flavor and make the chocolate flavor shine even more.
- Butter– You will need to use melted butter instead of oil for added richness.
- Sea salt– I always like to add some salt to my baked goods to balance out the sweetness in them .
- Chocolate chips– I like my brownies fudgy and packed with chocolate so adding some chocolate chips is the way to go if you want that too!
These are seriously my favorite lazy girl brownies made out of brownie mix ( but better!) So if you get the chance try them and let me know what you think in the comments below!
My secret recipe for how to make boxed brownies better
If you tried and enjoyed this better boxed mix brownie recipe, make sure to give it a 5-star rating by clicking on the 5 stars under the description.
10 Secrets to make boxed brownies better + RECIPE
Ingredients
- 1 box brownie mix
- 2 egg yolks
- 1 stick butter melted
- ⅓ cup brewed hot coffee
- 1 teaspoon vanilla
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼-1/2 cup chocolate chips depending on your preference
Instructions
- Start by preheating the oven to 325F then line an 8×8 inch baking pan with parchment paper and set aside.
- In a large bowl, mix the brownie mix, egg yolks, melted butter, brewed hot coffee, vanilla extract, salt, and chocolate chips together.
- Pour the brownie batter into the prepared pan and bake in the preheated oven for 40 minutes. Let the brownies cool completely before cutting into it.
Notes
Nutrition
Thank you so much for making it all the way down.
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Avalon
These were so good!! The only thing I did differently was use smoked maldon salt instead of regular salt. Amazing recipe!
Chahinez
Sounds delish Avalon!
Amy
Great brownie ideas. The egg yolks instead of whole egg worked great. I also had toffee bits to mine, Yum. But can you add bourbon, Baileys or other alcohols to it? Or will it all cook out?
Chahinez
You can! The alcohol will cook off but the flavor will be there 🙂 Use half and half with the liquid or use them to replace the liquids. I do have a red wine brownie recipe you might enjoy as well!
Julie Yarnall
These brownies were the BEST brownies I have ever made. I served them while camping, and everyone went on and on about how delicious, and moist they were. Love the addition of hot coffee, because well….coffee is life! 😂 I am never disappointed with any recipe I make from this site, always 100% delicious.
Chahinez
This sounds SO good! Thank you Julie.
Riley
I’ve made these for summer picnics and serve with a scoop of homemade peanut butter or vanilla ice cream.. so good! I sub chocolate wine for the coffee and it is delicious. Thank you so much for the ideas to make the boxed brownie taste like a bakery brownie!
Chahinez
YUM! That sounds so good Riley!
Melody
These turned out great!
Chahinez
Enjoy!
Rob
Used the Ghirdelli Triple Fudge mix and made 2 batches with 2 added ‘hacks’. In one I used your basic ‘hacks’ of egg yokes and butter plus as my ‘hack’ a good Cabernet Savigion instead of water. Red wine and chocolate are a great match. in the other I used sweetened condensed milk. Both came out great. Next time I plan to swirl in some cherry pie filling in the red wine version to make Black Forrest brownies!
Chahinez
This sounds delish Rob!!! Wow!
Amy
Huge hit!. I doubled the recipe. 2 bags of triple chocolate brownie mix, 4 egg yolks, 2/3 cup milk, 2/3 cup melted butter, vanilla, I had no coffee so I added a splash of Kahlua. And I had a bag of CarmeI bits I through in half the bag. 9 x 13 glass pan for the full hour. They were THICK and yummy. Everyone took them home. Thanks
Chahinez
This sounds delicious Amy! Glad to hear you enjoyed them.
MICHELLE
I am always looking for new ways to make something I knew of all of these except for the hot coffee will be trying tonight. I like adding the instant coffee, egg yolks, and milk or cream with salt as well but on occasion I will change it up with nuts and coconut coffee creamer they come out fudge and tasting like an Almond Joy. 🥰
Chahinez
Oooh sounds yummy!
Annie
Hi! I need to double this recipe. Will a 13×9 pan work or do i need to make two batches? Thanks!
Chahinez
I haven’t tried making this in a 9×13 inch pan, you can definitely give it a try but you might need to bake it for. a bit longer. If you don’t want to experiment, just do 2 8×8 inch pans !
Marie
I need to make 100 brownies…can I triple the recipe and bake on a half sheet pan?
Chahinez
I have never made this in a half sheet pan but I am guessing the baking time will vary greatly! Let me know if you do give it a try!
Sarah
Hi I was wondering if I need to use 1 egg do I still use the 2 egg yolks? Or just 1 egg yolk?
Chahinez
2 egg yolks!
Sharon
The recipe asked for hot brewed coffee, does it mean we mixed the cooled coffee liquid in, or do you mean to literally add the
coffee while it is still hot??
Chahinez
Coffee while still hot! 🙂
Donna Thomas
2 questions
1) I only have 2% milk, no whole milk, how would it be if I substituted canned evaporated milk?
2) if the box mix calls for 2 large eggs should I use 4 egg YOLKs instead?
Chahinez
YESS! You got it perfectly right. Please let me know how your brownies turn out! I’m so excited for you to try them. Know that you will have to let them cool down quite a lot before you dig in because they’ll be a bit underdone and super fudgy right our of the oven!
Asia
I made this recipe with heavy cream and a splash of water, vanilla bean, walnuts, and some espresso…best boxes brownies I’ve ever had!
Chahinez
So glad to hear this Asia! Enjoy!
Morrisa Schaefer
I add about 1/3 cup of sour cream and half a package of softened cream cheese to the Salted Caramel Brownie boxed mix! I add the sour cream directly into the mix. After blending ingredients I pour half the batter into the pan and drop dollops of cream cheese onto the mix then add remaining batter and repeat with top layer. Then squeeze on the caramel topping and use a knife to swirl the caramel and cream cheese throughout the batter! Best brownies ever!!
Chahinez
YAY for the best brownies ever! Thank you for sharing all these amazing tips too Morrissa!
Chahinez
CAROL KELLER
Norma, only use the 2 egg yolks. All the ingredients listed above are in place of ingredients listed on box
Chahinez
yes!
Chahinez
Norma Clark
My box calls for 2 whole eggs should I use 4 egg yolks?
Chahinez
That will depend on the size of your brownie box? Is it larger than usual? The one I used was 18.3oz
Norma Clark
It’s 18.4
Mary
What can I use instead of coffee? I can detect even a smidgen of coffee in anything. 🤢
Chahinez
You can use regular water or milk. You will not be able to taste the coffee at all actually, it’s there just to highlight the flavor of the chocolate.
Chahinez
Michelle Little
Mine didn’t turn out quite right, they didn’t bake quite right slightly undercooked kinda in the middle hard on the edges. I used an 8×8 glass pan lined with parchment paper I followed all the steps. Is there something I can do to get a better result bc the flavor was amazing but I’d prefer a batch of completely perfectly baked brownies.
Chahinez
Hi Michelle, the brownies will be a little underbaked at first, letting them cool down is a must to get those super fudgy brownies.
If you want them a little more baked/set, bake for another 5 or so minutes and let them cool down before slicing!
Chahinez
Lauren
These are absolutely FANTASTIC!! I’m the brownie lover in the house-my family will eat them, but I’m the one who puts the biggest dent in the pan. I made these yesterday and my husband LOVED them. He thought I scratched made them!! I was a bit skeptical about the amount of egg but I’m glad I didn’t add an extra yolk. I got home from work and almost the whole pan was gone. Dad and son went crazy on them last night haha. Thanks for sharing this- absolutely delicious and I’ll definitely be making them again!!
Chahinez
I am so happy you and everyone else in the house loved these just as much! It’s crazy how that extra egg yolk adds so much moisture huh!! We love this recipe so much so I am happy that you guys do too <3
Chahinez
Dottie Sigman
I am a die hard foodie and was nodding yes as I read through your 10 hacks…the only new one for me was “yolks only”. I will give it a try shortly. Txs lots for your post~
Chahinez
Let me know your thoughts!!
Chahinez
Lynda Toth
Made recipe as directed wasn’t cooked in 40minutes? Cooks in glass 8×8 pan and followed directions?
Chahinez
Glass pans heat up a lot slower than regular metal pans which is probably why you needed to bake your brownies for a little longer. Hope you like how your brownies turned out still and the extra time wasn’t too much of an inconvenience for you!
Chahinez
Lynda Toth
Made your recipe for 10 secrets to boxed brownies in 8×8 glass pan.
Followed directions but feel not done even left in 45 mins. Used Ghiradelli double chocolate which has chocolate chips so didn’t add.
I usually add nuts but didn’t this time. Cooked at 325’. Loved the version of you recipe but cooking time was a issue☹️
Chahinez
Different ovens heat up differently as well as the pan used. Since you used a glass pan, it might’ve taken longer. Glad the recipe was still delicious!
Chahinez
Marianna
Just made this and it seriously tasted like a from scratch brownie!!!!
Chahinez
I love hearing that Marianna! Thank you for sharing 🙂
Chahinez
Heather
HI there – I would love to try this but. . . .I only have salted butter. Should I leave out the additional 1/4 tsp salt in the recipe?
Chahinez
Yes! That will work perfectly!
Chahinez
Heather
Thank you!
Lyn
Did a family size pan, used butter & milk instead of oil & water. Added chocolate chips, vanilla and espresso powder. Did 2 yolks plus 1 egg instead of 2 whole. Using glass pan at 325 for 30 minutes, still not done, adding 10 more minutes. They smell wonderful.
Chahinez
So glad to hear they smell wonderful!Hope you enjoyed them!
Chahinez
Alicia
This recipe made my boxed brownies taste incredible! I made them for the 4th of July and everyone thought they were made from scratch. Thank you!
Chahinez
Thank you so much for sharing this and I’m glad to hear everyone loved it 🙂
Chahinez