What makes brownies “crack brownies"?

These boldly decadent brownies earn the name because they combine a rich boxed brownie mix base with an ultra-gooey layer—often sweetened condensed milk and chocolate chips—that creates an almost addictive texture and flavor. The contrast between the shiny crust and the soft center is what sets crack brownies apart.

Can I make crack brownies from scratch instead of using a boxed mix?

Yes, you absolutely can. While many recipes use a boxed mix for convenience, a homemade fudgy brownie batter works just as well. Just keep the same method of adding the gooey layer and the mix-ins to get the signature texture of the crack brownies you crave.

How should I store crack brownies and will the gooey layer stay intact?

After cooling completely, store your batch in an airtight container. At room temperature, they’ll keep well for up to 3 days. If you refrigerate, they’ll stay intact for up to a week—just bring them to room temperature or microwave briefly before serving to restore that molten-like center of your crack brownies.

What are common mix-ins and flavor variations for crack brownies?

You can customize your crack brownies with ingredients like peanut butter cups, caramel swirls, marshmallows, or sea salt sprinkled on top. These add-ons give new flavor dimensions while preserving that gooey, fudgy texture you’re aiming for.

Crack Brownies Recipe – 5 Irresistible Steps to Gooey Bliss

Description

These Crack Brownies are ultra-fudgy, gooey chocolate dessert bars with a shiny crust and creamy condensed milk layer. They’re easy to make, addictively delicious, and perfect for any chocolate lover.

Ingredients

Scale

1 box brownie mix (18–19 oz, any brand)
2 large eggs
½ cup vegetable oil or melted butter
2 tablespoons water
1 cup sweetened condensed milk
1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
½ cup peanut butter chips or caramel bits (optional)
¼ teaspoon salt

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Instructions

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9×13-inch pan with parchment paper.
In a medium bowl, combine brownie mix, eggs, oil, and water until smooth.
Pour two-thirds of the batter into the pan and spread evenly.
Bake for 15 minutes until partially set.
Remove from oven and pour sweetened condensed milk over the base.
Sprinkle chocolate chips and optional peanut butter or caramel bits.
Spread remaining batter on top and return to oven.
Bake another 20–25 minutes until edges are set and the center is slightly firm.
Cool completely before slicing into squares.

Notes

For a cleaner cut, chill the brownies before slicing.
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate up to a week.
Warm individual squares for 10 seconds in the microwave for extra gooey texture.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Category: Desserts
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 square
Calories: 285
Sugar: 26
Sodium: 120
Fat: 14
Saturated Fat: 6
Unsaturated Fat: 7
Trans Fat: 0
Carbohydrates: 37
Fiber: 2
Protein: 4
Cholesterol: 35