Brownies come in endless varieties, and this list shows just how creative you can get with a simple chocolate base. From rich and fudgy to light and cakey, these brownies include mix-ins, swirls, and unexpected twists. You’ll find everything from nostalgic candy-studded bars to elegant flavors like matcha or cream cheese. These treats go far beyond the basic box mix.

Chocolate Brownie Crinkle Cookies

Two chocolate crinkle cookies, reminiscent of chewy brownies, are dusted with powdered sugar on a white plate—one with a bite taken out—paired perfectly with a glass of milk in the background.
Chocolate Brownie Crinkle Cookies. Photo credit: Southern Food and Fun.

These brownie cookies have crisp edges and crackly tops that reveal a soft, fudgy center. Rolled in powdered sugar before baking, they bake into pretty rounds with rich chocolate flavor. Each bite tastes like the corner piece of a brownie. They’re perfect for cookie trays or gifting.
Get the Recipe: Chocolate Brownie Crinkle Cookies

Cocoa Brownies

Cocoa Brownies. Photo credit: Southern Food and Fun.

Made with cocoa powder instead of melted chocolate, these brownies are deep in flavor and simple to make. The texture lands somewhere between cakey and chewy. They come together with pantry staples in one bowl. A great go-to for last-minute cravings.
Get the Recipe: Cocoa Brownies

Easy Brownies

Two chewy brownies topped with caramel drizzle and a sprinkle of coarse salt, served on a decorative plate.
Easy Brownies. Photo credit: Southern Food and Fun.

These classic brownies are soft, dense, and loaded with chocolate flavor. They require minimal ingredients and just a few steps to pull off. The result is rich and satisfying without being overly complicated. A staple recipe for every baker’s rotation.
Get the Recipe: Easy Brownies

Image shows a close up of Candy Cookie Brownies on a wooden board.
Candy Cookie Brownies. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

A layer of cookie dough meets candy-studded brownie batter for a fun, colorful treat. The textures contrast perfectly with chewy, crisp, and melty bites. You can switch up the candies to match the season or your mood.
Get the Recipe: Candy Cookie Brownies

Lemon Brownies

Lemon Brownies. Photo credit: xoxo Bella.

Bright and zesty, these brownies swap chocolate for lemon for a refreshing twist. The texture stays soft and dense, with a tangy glaze on top. They’re a nice change of pace from traditional rich desserts. Great for spring and summer gatherings.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Brownies

S’mores Brownies

Image shows Smores brownies on a white tray.
S’mores Brownies. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

These brownies layer graham crackers, chocolate, and marshmallows into one gooey bar. The marshmallows toast in the oven for a campfire-style finish. Rich and sticky, they taste like summer. They’re easy to slice but messy in the best way.
Get the Recipe: S’mores Brownies

Best Black Bean Brownies

Best Black Bean Brownies. Photo credit: MOON and spoon and yum.

These flourless brownies use black beans for a dense, fudgy texture. You’d never guess the secret ingredient based on taste. They’re smooth, rich, and easy to blend up in a food processor. A creative take that’s both bold and surprisingly good.
Get the Recipe: Best Black Bean Brownies

Matcha Brownies

Four square slices of matcha brownies with white chocolate icing.
Matcha Brownies. Photo credit: Easy Homemade Life.

These green-hued brownies use matcha powder to add earthiness and color. They’re soft and lightly sweet with a smooth crumb. White chocolate chips add a creamy counterpoint. A standout treat for fans of tea and unique desserts.
Get the Recipe: Matcha Brownies

Peanut Butter Cup Brownies

Squares of peanut butter brownies.
Peanut Butter Cup Brownies. Photo credit: One Hot Oven.

Chocolate and peanut butter come together with whole peanut butter cups baked into the batter. Each piece is gooey with melted candy in every bite. The top bakes to a glossy finish while the centers stay soft. Rich and indulgent.
Get the Recipe: Peanut Butter Cup Brownies

Buckeye Brownies

Layered Buckeye Brownies stacked up with more brownies around them.
Buckeye Brownies. Photo credit: Little House Big Alaska.

Inspired by the classic Ohio candy, these brownies feature a thick peanut butter layer topped with melted chocolate. The contrast between the layers makes for a striking look and a rich taste. They slice cleanly and store well. A must for peanut butter lovers.
Get the Recipe: Buckeye Brownies

Peanut Butter Brownies

Stack of peanut butter brownies with creamy peanut butter visible in the background.
Peanut Butter Brownies. Photo credit: Quick Prep Recipes.

These brownies swirl peanut butter into rich chocolate batter for a marbled effect. The peanut butter adds creaminess and a salty touch. They bake up dense and chewy with bold flavor. A classic pairing that never disappoints.
Get the Recipe: Peanut Butter Brownies

Caramel Apple Cheesecake Brownie

A piece of cake on a blue plate with a fork.
Caramel Apple Cheesecake Brownie. Photo credit: Ginger Casa.

A brownie base holds layers of spiced apples, cheesecake, and caramel drizzle. The combination of textures—from fudgy to creamy to juicy—is hard to resist. It’s like three desserts in one bite. A standout for fall baking.
Get the Recipe: Caramel Apple Cheesecake Brownie

Easy Pumpkin Brownies

A chocolate brownie on a gold spatula.
Easy Pumpkin Brownies. Photo credit: Little House Big Alaska.

Pumpkin puree adds moisture and subtle spice to these dense brownies. Swirled or layered, the flavors balance chocolate and cinnamon notes. They bake with a glossy top and soft center. A seasonal favorite with rich depth.
Get the Recipe: Easy Pumpkin Brownies

Cream Cheese Brownies

Cream Cheese Brownies. Photo credit: xoxo Bella.

These brownies swirl tangy cream cheese into rich chocolate batter. The result is a two-tone dessert with creamy and fudgy layers. Each slice looks marbled and bakes up soft. Great for those who like a little balance with their sweets.
Get the Recipe: Cream Cheese Brownies

Pecan Caramel Brownies

Pecan Caramel Brownies. Photo credit: Eat Fresh Glow.

Toasted pecans and a swirl of caramel sauce take these brownies up a notch. The nuts add crunch while the caramel brings stickiness and richness. They bake with gooey pockets and chewy edges. Perfect with a scoop of ice cream.
Get the Recipe: Pecan Caramel Brownies

Pecan Pie Brownies

Three pieces of pecan pie brownies on slate coasters.
Pecan Pie Brownies. Photo credit: Bake What You Love.

This mashup layers gooey pecan pie filling over a dense brownie base. The top bakes up glossy and packed with toasted nuts. The contrast between fudgy and syrupy is unforgettable. Ideal for holidays or special gatherings.
Get the Recipe: Pecan Pie Brownies

Caramel Swirl Brownies

A plate of chocolate brownies with caramel swirls.
Caramel Swirl Brownies. Photo credit: Trina Krug.

Ribbons of caramel run through these soft, chewy brownies. Each bite has a mix of deep chocolate and smooth sweetness. The swirl also gives them a beautiful look. Easy to cut and great for sharing.
Get the Recipe: Caramel Swirl Brownies

Best Fudgy Low Carb Brownies

Best Fudgy Keto Brownies on top of each other with cupsicum on top.
Best Fudgy Low Carb Brownies. Photo credit: Low Carb – No Carb.

These brownies deliver rich flavor and dense texture without traditional flour or sugar. Almond flour and sugar alternatives keep them thick and satisfying. You won’t miss the classic version. They’re a smart choice when you want chocolate without the crash.
Get the Recipe: Best Fudgy Low Carb Brownies

A woman with shoulder-length blonde hair, wearing a white T-shirt and dark jeans, stands in a kitchen with a brick backsplash and stainless steel appliances. She is smiling and resting her hands on the counter.

About the author

Hi, Iโ€™m Lucy! Iโ€™m a home cook, writer, food and wine fanatic, and recipe developer. Iโ€™ve created and tested hundreds of recipes so that I can bring you the best tried and true favorites.

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