Can you put sprinkles on top of brownies before baking? This question often crosses the minds of bakers looking to add a festive touch to their treats. Sprinkles are a colorful and delightful addition to many baked goods, and brownies are no exception. In this article, we will answer this question in detail, covering tips, techniques, and common practices for using sprinkles effectively. By the end, you’ll know exactly how to use sprinkles to get the best results from your brownies.
Sprinkles on Brownies: Should You Add Them Before or After Baking?
Brownies are a beloved dessert known for their rich, fudgy texture. Adding sprinkles is a great way to elevate their visual appeal, making them perfect for special occasions like birthdays or parties. The key question is: Can you put sprinkles on top of brownies before baking? Yes, you absolutely can! You can add sprinkles before baking, allowing them to adhere to the brownie surface and create a colorful presentation.
However, there are a few things to keep in mind when adding sprinkles before baking. Sprinkles can sometimes melt, depending on their type. Traditional sugar sprinkles generally hold up well during baking, while chocolate or specialty sprinkles might have different results. Therefore, it is essential to choose the right kind of sprinkle and understand the effects of baking them.
For a more detailed explanation of how sprinkles behave during baking, you can check out this article on sprinkles science or explore tips for decorating brownies for more inspiration.
What Happens When You Put Sprinkles on Top Before Baking?
Can you put sprinkles on top of brownies before baking? When you add sprinkles before baking, they will melt slightly and adhere to the top of the brownies. This ensures that they stay in place without falling off after baking. The heat from the oven helps the sprinkles bond to the brownie batter, giving the baked brownies a consistent and even sprinkle distribution.
Choosing the Right Sprinkles
When deciding to add sprinkles, you should consider the following:
- Classic Sugar Sprinkles: These are the best choice for baking. Manufacturers make them from colored sugar, and they can withstand the baking process without melting into an unrecognizable mess.
- Nonpareils: These small, round sprinkles are also a good choice but may lose a bit of their color during baking.
- Chocolate Sprinkles: Chocolate sprinkles are more likely to melt, which might affect both the taste and appearance of the brownies.
- Specialty Sprinkles: Some specialty sprinkles, such as metallic or pearlized sprinkles, are not intended for baking and should be added after brownies are baked and cooled.
For additional details on choosing sprinkles, refer to Baking with Sprinkles.
How to Add Sprinkles to Brownies: A Step-by-Step Guide
Adding sprinkles to brownies is a simple process. Here is a step-by-step guide to ensure you do it right:
- Prepare the Brownie Batter: Follow your favorite brownie recipe and prepare the batter as usual.
- Pour the Batter into the Pan: Once your batter is ready, pour it into a baking pan lined with parchment paper for easy removal.
- Sprinkle Evenly: Before placing the pan in the oven, generously add your sprinkles on top of the brownie batter. Make sure to distribute them evenly to ensure a uniform appearance.
- Bake: Bake according to the recipe instructions. The sprinkles will adhere as the brownies bake, giving them a beautiful, festive look.
- Cool Before Serving: Allow the brownies to cool completely before cutting. This prevents the sprinkles from cracking or coming off.
Tips for Adding Sprinkles
- Avoid Overcrowding: Do not overdo it with sprinkles. Too many sprinkles may cause an uneven bake.
- Pat Lightly: If you want the sprinkles to stay firmly in place, lightly press them into the brownie batter before baking.
- Experiment with Colors: Choose colors that match the occasion. For a holiday theme, you might use red and green sprinkles, while rainbow sprinkles are great for birthdays.
Should You Put Sprinkles on Before or After Baking?
The answer largely depends on the type of brownies and the result you’re looking for. If If you want your sprinkles to slightly melt and stick to the top, add them before baking. This method works well for brownies that you plan to serve fresh out of the oven or after cooling.
If you prefer the sprinkles to maintain their vibrant colors and crisp texture, it is better to add them after baking. In this scenario, you can use a glaze or frosting to ensure that the sprinkles stick properly to the brownies.
Pros and Cons of Adding Sprinkles Before Baking
Pros:
- Sprinkles stay in place.
- Creates a baked-in look, giving a cohesive appearance.
- Easy to apply.
Cons:
- Sprinkles can melt or lose color.
- Texture might change slightly due to baking.
Pros and Cons of Adding Sprinkles After Baking
Pros:
- Maintains vibrant color and texture.
- No risk of melting.
- Allows more creativity with placement.
Cons:
- Sprinkles might fall off without proper adhesion.
- Requires an additional step, such as using frosting or a glaze.
Common Mistakes When Adding Sprinkles to Brownies
When adding sprinkles to brownies, there are a few mistakes that you should avoid to achieve the best possible results:
- Using the Wrong Type of Sprinkles: Not all sprinkles are created equal. Some may melt entirely or lose their color when exposed to heat. Always choose sprinkles that are designed for baking.
- Adding Sprinkles to a Hot Brownie: If you decide to add sprinkles after baking, make sure the brownies are completely cooled. Adding sprinkles to a hot brownie will cause them to melt and lose their shape.
- Overloading with Sprinkles: While it might be tempting to add a lot of sprinkles, doing so can overwhelm the taste of the brownie and make it difficult for the batter to bake evenly.
Can Sprinkles Go in the Oven?
The short answer is yes. Most sprinkles can go in the oven. As mentioned earlier, the best results come from using classic sugar sprinkles that are formulated to handle the heat. Sprinkles such as jimmies, nonpareils, and even colored sugar are perfect for baking and can be safely placed on top of brownie batter.
Keep in mind that while sprinkles can withstand the heat of the oven, their colors may become slightly duller. Therefore, if you want a more vibrant topping, consider adding additional sprinkles after the brownies have cooled.
Enhancing Brownie Appearance with Sprinkles
Sprinkles are a fun way to enhance the look of brownies, but they are not the only option. Here are some alternatives you might consider:
- Drizzled Chocolate: Melt some chocolate and drizzle it over the top of the brownies.
- Crushed Candies: Sprinkle crushed candies, such as peppermint or toffee, for a different texture and flavor.
- Nuts: Finely chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts can be added before baking to provide a contrast of textures.
- Edible Glitter: Edible glitter can be sprinkled over the brownies for an extra shimmer, particularly for special occasions.
Using Frosting or Glaze to Add Sprinkles After Baking
If you decide to add sprinkles after baking, you will need something to help them stick to the brownies. Frosting or glaze works perfectly for this purpose. Here’s how you can use them effectively:
Frosting Method
- Prepare the Brownies: Bake your brownies and allow them to cool completely before adding frosting. If the brownies are still warm, the frosting may melt and make it difficult to get the sprinkles to adhere.
- Apply a Thin Layer of Frosting: Spread a thin layer of frosting over the top of the cooled brownies. You can use a classic buttercream frosting or any flavor of your choice.
- Add Sprinkles: Once the frosting is applied, quickly add your sprinkles on top. Gently press them into the frosting to ensure they stick.
- Set the Frosting: Allow the frosting to set at room temperature or in the refrigerator until it is firm.
Glaze Method
- Prepare the Glaze: Make a simple glaze using powdered sugar, a small amount of milk or cream, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.
- Pour Over Brownies: Drizzle or pour the glaze over the cooled brownies.
- Add Sprinkles: Immediately after glazing, sprinkle your chosen sprinkles over the top. The glaze will act as an adhesive to keep the sprinkles in place.
- Allow to Set: Let the glaze set until it forms a firm coating on the brownies.
Using frosting or glaze not only helps the sprinkles stay in place but also adds extra sweetness and texture to the brownies, making them even more delicious.
Creative Ways to Use Sprinkles for Different Occasions
Sprinkles are versatile, and they can be used in many creative ways to suit different occasions. Here are some ideas for using sprinkles to make your brownies more festive:
1. Birthday Party Brownies
For birthday parties, go all out with rainbow sprinkles. Add them to the brownies before baking to create a colorful, baked-in look. After the brownies have cooled, top them with a layer of vanilla frosting and more rainbow sprinkles. This double-sprinkle approach makes the brownies look fun and festive, perfect for a birthday celebration.
2. Holiday-Themed Brownies
- Christmas: Use red, green, and white sprinkles for a festive holiday look. You can add these sprinkles before baking and then finish off with a light dusting of powdered sugar for a snowy effect.
- Valentine’s Day: Pink, red, and white heart-shaped sprinkles are perfect for adding a romantic touch to your brownies. Consider drizzling some melted white chocolate on top to enhance the Valentine’s theme.
- Halloween: Use orange and black sprinkles to create spooky brownies. You could even add some edible candy eyes after baking to make them extra festive.
3. Graduation Party Brownies
If you’re making brownies for a graduation party, use sprinkles in the colors of the school or university. Add them before or after baking, depending on whether you want a baked-in look or a crisp topping. Consider using white chocolate drizzle to write the graduation year or initials on each brownie square for a personalized touch.
4. Baby Shower Brownies
For a baby shower, use pastel-colored sprinkles such as light pink, blue, yellow, or green. A thin layer of glaze followed by pastel sprinkles can make the brownies look elegant and charming, perfect for celebrating the new arrival.
Adding Texture and Flavor with Sprinkles
Sprinkles are not just for decoration; they can also add texture and a bit of extra flavor to brownies. Here’s how different types of sprinkles can contribute:
- Crunch: Traditional sugar sprinkles and nonpareils add a slight crunch to each bite, which contrasts nicely with the soft, fudgy texture of the brownie.
- Chocolate Flavor: Using chocolate sprinkles adds a mild chocolate flavor that complements the rich brownie base.
- Popping Texture: Specialty sprinkles like popping candy can add a surprising texture that’s fun, especially for children’s parties.
Using Other Toppings Alongside Sprinkles
Sprinkles are a great way to decorate brownies, but you can combine them with other toppings for an even more decadent treat. Here are some ideas
- Mini Marshmallows: Add mini marshmallows on top of the brownie batter alongside sprinkles before baking. The marshmallows will puff up and add a gooey texture, while the sprinkles add color.
- Caramel Drizzle: Drizzle some caramel sauce over the baked brownies, then add sprinkles. The caramel adds a buttery sweetness that balances the slight crunch of the sprinkles.
- Crushed Cookies: Crushed chocolate sandwich cookies or graham crackers can be sprinkled on top along with colorful sprinkles for added texture and flavor.
The Science Behind Sprinkles in Baking
Understanding how sprinkles behave in the oven can help you make better choices when adding them to your brownies. Manufacturers make sprinkles using sugar, food coloring, and a binding agent. When exposed to heat, the sugar in sprinkles can melt, especially if the baking temperature is too high or if the sprinkles are not meant for baking.
Why Do Some Sprinkles Melt?
The melting point of the sugar and the type of coloring used will affect how well sprinkles hold up during baking. Some sprinkles are coated with a layer that helps them resist melting, which is why certain types (like jimmies) are better for baking than others (like metallic dragees).
If you notice that your sprinkles are melting too much during baking, try lowering the oven temperature slightly or switching to a different type of sprinkle that is more heat-resistant. Always check the packaging to see if the sprinkles are labeled as “oven-safe” or “baking sprinkles.”
Storing Brownies with Sprinkles
Once you’ve baked your brownies with sprinkles, proper storage is important to maintain their freshness and appearance.
- Room Temperature: Store the brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. Place parchment paper between layers to prevent the sprinkles from smudging or sticking.
- Refrigeration: If your brownies are frosted or glazed, they should be stored in the refrigerator. Cover them well to keep them from absorbing any odors from the fridge.
- Freezing: Brownies with sprinkles can also be frozen for up to 3 months. Wrap each brownie individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. Thaw at room temperature when ready to enjoy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should You Add Sprinkles Before or After Baking Brownies?
Adding sprinkles before baking allows them to stick better and melt slightly into the surface of the brownies. This gives a cohesive and even finish. However, if you want the sprinkles to be vibrant and crisp, consider adding them after baking using a glaze or frosting.
Should You Put Sprinkles on Before or After Baking?
Sprinkles can be added either before or after baking, depending on the result you want. Before baking will allow them to adhere to the brownie surface, while after baking will maintain their color and texture.
What Not to Do When Baking Brownies?
Avoid using sprinkles not designed for baking, as they may completely melt or lose color. Do not overload the batter with sprinkles, since doing so can affect how evenly the brownies bake.
Can Sprinkles Go in the Oven?
Yes, sprinkles can go in the oven. Use sugar-based sprinkles that are heat-resistant and specifically designed for baked goods.