Ready to create your own batch of irresistible Vegan Cosmic Brownies? Follow these simple steps to brownie heaven:

Preparing the Brownie Batter:

1. Preheat and Prep: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and lightly flour a 9×13 inch baking pan. You can also line the pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides, for easy removal of the brownies later. This is highly recommended for clean cuts.
2. Cream Butter and Sugars: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened vegan butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy. This step is crucial for creating a tender brownie. Use an electric mixer for best results, or a sturdy whisk and some elbow grease!
3. Incorporate Wet Ingredients: Add the applesauce and vanilla extract to the butter and sugar mixture. Mix until well combined and smooth. The applesauce will add moisture and bind the batter beautifully.
4. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. Whisking ensures the dry ingredients are evenly distributed and eliminates any lumps of cocoa powder.
5. Gradually Add Dry to Wet: Slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed (or gently folding with a spatula) until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to tough brownies. Mix until you see no more streaks of flour.
6. Fold in Chocolate Chips (Optional): If using chocolate chips, gently fold them into the brownie batter. This adds an extra layer of chocolate indulgence.
7. Pour into Pan: Pour the brownie batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly with a spatula or knife. Ensure the batter reaches all corners of the pan for uniform baking.

Baking to Fudgy Goodness:

1. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with moist crumbs attached. Be careful not to overbake, as you want fudgy brownies, not cakey ones. Start checking for doneness around 25 minutes.
2. Cool Completely: Remove the brownies from the oven and let them cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. This is essential for the frosting to set properly and for clean cuts. Resist the temptation to frost warm brownies! Patience is key.

Creating the Dreamy Vegan Frosting:

1. Cream Frosting Butter: In a medium mixing bowl, cream the softened vegan butter for the frosting until smooth and fluffy. This creates a light and airy base for the frosting.
2. Add Cocoa Powder: Gradually add the cocoa powder to the butter, mixing on low speed until combined. Ensure there are no lumps of cocoa powder for a smooth frosting.
3. Incorporate Powdered Sugar: Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, mixing on low speed until incorporated. Start on low speed to prevent a powdered sugar cloud! Once mostly combined, you can increase the speed slightly.
4. Add Vanilla and Milk: Stir in the vanilla extract. Then, add almond milk (or other plant-based milk) one tablespoon at a time, mixing until the frosting reaches a smooth, spreadable consistency. You may need slightly more or less milk depending on the consistency you desire. Aim for a frosting that is thick enough to hold its shape but spreadable.
5. Frost the Brownies: Once the brownies are completely cooled, evenly spread the vegan chocolate frosting over the top using an offset spatula or knife. Create a smooth, even layer of frosting.

Sprinkling on the Cosmos:

1. Sprinkle Generously: Immediately after frosting, generously sprinkle the vegan rainbow sprinkles over the frosting. The frosting needs to be soft for the sprinkles to adhere properly. Don’t be shy – the sprinkles are what make them cosmic!
2. Set the Frosting: Allow the frosting to set for at least 30 minutes, or until firm to the touch. This will make cutting cleaner and prevent the sprinkles from smudging. You can speed up the setting process by placing the brownies in the refrigerator for a shorter period.

Cooling and Cutting:

1. Chill (Optional for cleaner cuts): For extra clean cuts, you can chill the frosted brownies in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes before cutting. This firms up the frosting and brownies, making them easier to slice neatly.
2. Cut into Squares: Cut the brownies into squares using a sharp knife. For the classic cosmic brownie look, aim for rectangular shapes, similar to the original store-bought versions. If you lined the pan with parchment paper, lift the brownies out of the pan using the overhang and place them on a cutting board for easier slicing.
3. Serve and Enjoy! Your Vegan Cosmic Brownies are now ready to be served and devoured! Prepare for nostalgic bliss and happy smiles.