Chocolate squares turn into playful, spooky treats with a few clever mix-ins and decorations. Whether you’re hosting a costume bash or packing lunchbox surprises, these brownies deliver the right balance of rich cocoa and festive whimsy. Each idea below includes an easy photo prompt so a food photographer can capture a fitting, text-free indoor shot.
Contents
- 1. Zombie Swirl Cheesecake Brownies
- 2. Spiderweb Dark Chocolate Brownies
- 3. Candy Corn Layered Blondie-Brownies
- 4. Pumpkin Spice Cream Cheese Brownies
- 5. Caramel Apple Skillet Brownies
- 6. Monster Eye Brownie Bites
- 7. Witch’s Brew Mint Brownies
- 8. Ghostly Marshmallow Brownies
- 9. Graveyard Cookies ’n’ Cream Brownies
- 10. Bloody Red Velvet Fudge Brownies
- 11. Black Cat Peanut Butter Brownies
- 12. Maple Pecan Jack-O’-Lantern Brownies
- 13. Salted Toffee Tombstone Brownies
- 14. S’mores Campfire Brownies
- 15. Cinnamon Skeleton Bone Brownies
- 16. Orange-Cranberry Moonlit Brownies
- 17. Midnight Espresso Brownies with Sugar Bats
- 18. Poison Apple Caramel-Filled Brownies
- 19. Chai Shadow Brownies
- 20. Gingersnap Pumpkin Patch Brownies
- 21. Licorice Swirl Night Sky Brownies
- 22. Hazelnut Werewolf Claw Brownies
- 23. Peppermint Mummy Brownies
- 24. Brown Butter Harvest Trail Mix Brownies
- 25. Pecan Pie Cauldron Brownies
- 26. Chili-Chocolate Fire Brownies
- 27. Lavender Fog Witch Hat Brownies
- 28. Apple Cider Doughnut Crumb Brownies
- 29. Coconut Cobweb Brownies
- 30. Apricot Lantern Glow Brownies
- 31. Triple Chocolate Cobblestone Brownies
- 32. Cherry Ghoul-ash Brownies
- 33. Cereal Monster Mash Brownies
- 34. Matcha Franken-Brownies
- 35. Rum-Raisin Pirate Brownies
- 36. Blueberry Nightshade Brownies
- 37. Key Lime Slime Brownies
- 38. Oreo Moon Crater Brownies
- 39. Bourbon Pecan Haunted Forest Brownies
- 40. Orange-Cardamom Candlelit Brownies
- 41. Graham Pumpkin Cheesecake Brownie Bars
- 42. Malt Ball Cauldron Bubble Brownies
- 43. Spiced Pear Phantom Brownies
- 44. Cookie Butter Gremlin Brownies
- 45. Molasses Raven Feather Brownies
- 46. Rosemary Smoky Campfire Brownies
- 47. Banana Foster Flaming Brownies
- 48. Cappuccino Moonbeam Brownies
- 49. Lemon Poppyseed Vampire Repellent Brownies
- 50. Mint Chip Grave Mist Brownies
- 51. Churro Cobweb Brownies
- 52. Grapefruit Twilight Brownies
- 53. Brownie Batter Bat Pops
- 54. Toasted Sesame Spellbook Brownies
- 55. Cranberry Pistachio Gargoyle Brownies
- 56. Butter Rum Jack-O’-Lantern Swirl Brownies
- 57. Espresso Bean Catacomb Brownies
- 58. Maple Bacon Witch’s Familiar Brownies
- 59. Salt-and-Pepper Twilight Brownies
- 60. Dulce de Leche Scarecrow Brownies
- 61. Blood Orange Midnight Brownies
- 62. Marshmallow Cobblestone Grave Path Brownies
- 63. Cherry Cola Cauldron Crackle Brownies
- 64. Pistachio Ghast Brownies
- 65. Black Sesame Mooncake Brownies
1. Zombie Swirl Cheesecake Brownies
The brownie base stays supremely fudgy while tangy cheesecake batter, tinted electric green with gel coloring, creeps across the top like zombie slime. Drag a toothpick through the two batters before baking to achieve dramatic streaks. Finish with a dusting of crushed chocolate cookies for graveyard “soil.” Kids love the ghoulish color contrast, and adults appreciate the classic chocolate-cheesecake pairing.
2. Spiderweb Dark Chocolate Brownies
Start with a dense dark chocolate brownie and glaze it with silky ganache. Pipe concentric white icing circles, then drag a skewer outward to form perfectly creepy webs. A single candy spider in the corner of each square adds playful drama. They look sophisticated yet require only pantry staples.
3. Candy Corn Layered Blondie-Brownies
A bottom chocolate layer anchors the treat, followed by a butterscotch blondie band dyed sunny yellow. The top stripe is orange-tinted vanilla brownie batter for a full candy-corn palette. Once cooled, cut into triangles to mirror the classic Halloween sweet. They vanish quickly from any dessert tray.
4. Pumpkin Spice Cream Cheese Brownies
Pumpkin purée and autumn spices swirl through tangy cream cheese and ripple across fudgy batter. The result is a moist, fragrant bite that combines two seasonal favorites. Extra cinnamon chips on top boost the cozy flavor. Serve slightly warm with whipped cream for crowd-pleasing comfort.
5. Caramel Apple Skillet Brownies
Bake the batter in a well-seasoned skillet so edges crisp while the center stays gooey. Fold in sautéed cinnamon apples for sweet-tart pops of fruit. A final flourish of warm caramel and a sprinkle of sea salt make each slice taste like fair-ground apples meets chocolate cake. Serve straight from the pan for rustic charm.
6. Monster Eye Brownie Bites
Portion batter into mini muffin tins for easy two-bite treats. Once cooled, swirl on neon buttercream and press oversized candy eyeballs right in the center. The goofy gaze turns simple brownies into adorable monsters. They’re perfect for classroom parties because they’re quick to serve and delightfully mess-free.
7. Witch’s Brew Mint Brownies
Infuse the batter with peppermint extract for a refreshing twist that cuts through the richness. A cool mint icing dyed witch-green sets the theme, while cookie crumbs offer crunchy “brew” bits. Add a sprinkle of purple sugar for magical sparkle. The minty aroma immediately signals Halloween mischief.
8. Ghostly Marshmallow Brownies
Pipe mounds of marshmallow fluff onto cooled brownies, then use a torch to lightly toast the edges for spectral shading. Tiny melted-chocolate dots create spooky eyes and mouths. The contrast between chewy brownie and airy marshmallow is irresistible. Serve within a few hours for the best gooey texture.
9. Graveyard Cookies ’n’ Cream Brownies
Layer a thick blanket of cookies ’n’ cream frosting over the chocolate base. Crushed sandwich cookies mimic fresh soil, while wafer cookies stand tall as gravestones. Personalize each headstone with quick icing designs. It’s an ideal make-ahead dessert because the cookie topping helps keep everything moist.
10. Bloody Red Velvet Fudge Brownies
Cocoa powder, buttermilk, and plenty of red food color turn a standard recipe into striking crimson squares. Drizzle melted dark chocolate in random streaks for a horror-film vibe. The subtle tang of red velvet balances the deep fudgy notes. They look dramatic but require no extra decorating skill.
11. Black Cat Peanut Butter Brownies
Swirl creamy peanut butter into the batter before baking for nutty ribbons in every bite. Once cooled, cover with inky black frosting made by adding a touch of black cocoa. Candy pieces form ears and eyes for charming feline faces. They bring a playful wink to any dessert table.
12. Maple Pecan Jack-O’-Lantern Brownies
Use a pumpkin cookie cutter to stamp out the shapes, then carve small facial details with a paring knife. Brush each piece with maple syrup and press on toasted pecan pieces to outline eyes and smiles. The syrup lightly caramelizes under a quick broil, adding shine and flavor. Every bite echoes the warmth of fall pies.
13. Salted Toffee Tombstone Brownies
Mix crunchy toffee pieces into the batter for sweet pockets that melt slightly during baking. A quick grey-tinted caramel icing gives a weathered stone look. Mini chocolate bars cut into headstone shapes push easily into the soft frosting. A sprinkle of flaky salt keeps the sweetness in check.
14. S’mores Campfire Brownies
Layer graham cracker crumbs on the batter before it hits the oven so they bake into a crunchy crust. Once cooled, pile on marshmallows and toast until golden. Nestle extra chocolate chunks among the gooey topping to complete the classic trio. They capture campfire vibes without any smoke.
15. Cinnamon Skeleton Bone Brownies
Spike the batter with ground cinnamon for a gentle warmth that surprises alongside chocolate. After baking, outline skeleton bones using thick royal icing tinted snowy white. The crisp icing adds a snap that complements the chewy crumb. They’re a fun edible canvas for budding artists.
16. Orange-Cranberry Moonlit Brownies
Orange zest perfumes the batter while tart dried cranberries add chewy bursts of flavor. Use a small sieve and a circular stencil to dust powdered sugar crescents across the top, creating a lunar scene. The fruity notes lighten the rich chocolate in an unexpected way. Serve alongside mulled cider for a cozy match.
17. Midnight Espresso Brownies with Sugar Bats
Instant espresso powder intensifies the chocolate and gives a subtle caffeine kick. A glossy mocha glaze adds shine and depth. Scatter bat-shaped sprinkles before the glaze sets to lock them in place. These sophisticated squares pair beautifully with after-dinner coffee.
18. Poison Apple Caramel-Filled Brownies
Fill each brownie cup with cinnamon-laced apple cider caramel that stays molten after baking. A few drops of gel color turn the caramel ominous red. Black sanding sugar on top gives the illusion of wicked glitter. Bite in carefully—the luscious filling is dangerously delicious.
19. Chai Shadow Brownies
Warm spices like cardamom, cloves, and ginger mingle with cocoa for a brownie that smells like autumn evenings. Use a piece of parchment to shield half the surface while dusting icing sugar, forming stark shadow stripes. The minimalist look feels modern yet perfectly seasonal. Enjoy with a mug of hot tea for full effect.
20. Gingersnap Pumpkin Patch Brownies
Crushed gingersnaps lend crunch and spicy aroma to the topping. Place candy pumpkins across the crumbly “earth” so each slice reveals a little patch. A hint of molasses in the batter ties everything together. They’re simple enough for weeknight baking yet decoration-ready for parties.
21. Licorice Swirl Night Sky Brownies
Black licorice syrup makes dramatic charcoal-colored swirls against the lighter chocolate batter. Nonpareils dotted on top evoke a twinkling sky. The subtle anise notes divide the crowd—in the best way. Serve alongside vanilla ice cream to mellow the bold flavor.
22. Hazelnut Werewolf Claw Brownies
Toast hazelnut halves and embed them along one side of each cut wedge so they resemble menacing claws. Hazelnut spread folded into the batter adds another nutty layer. A quick drizzle of melted chocolate over the nuts secures everything in place. They look fierce but taste comforting and familiar.
23. Peppermint Mummy Brownies
Crushed peppermint patties stirred into the batter melt into cool pockets throughout. Once cooled, pipe thin zigzags of melted white chocolate across the top for makeshift wraps. Attach small candy eyes before the drizzle hardens. Their whimsical look hides a refreshing mint surprise.
24. Brown Butter Harvest Trail Mix Brownies
Brown butter amplifies the nutty backbone of the batter. Scatter a hearty trail mix on top halfway through baking so the fruits stay juicy and the nuts toast lightly. Candy-coated chocolates infuse autumn colors without additional dyes. Slice generously; these bars fuel hayrides and haunted maze visits alike.
25. Pecan Pie Cauldron Brownies
Bake brownies in a square pan, then pour a quick pecan pie filling over the partially cooled surface. Return to the oven until the topping sets into caramelized pools that crack when sliced. The layered look feels indulgent and festive. Vanilla ice cream on the side turns it into a plated dessert.
26. Chili-Chocolate Fire Brownies
A pinch of chipotle powder in the batter brings a smoky warmth that reveals itself gradually. Coat with silky ganache and sprinkle extra chili for a fiery finish. The sweet-heat combo intrigues adventurous palates. Pair with cold milk to keep tastes balanced.
27. Lavender Fog Witch Hat Brownies
Dried culinary lavender steeps in melted butter, lending a subtle floral aroma. Cut brownies into triangles, ice them softly purple, and perch mini inverted sugar cones at the wider edge for hat shapes. A ring of orange sprinkles around each cone adds contrast. Delicate flavors meet playful visuals.
28. Apple Cider Doughnut Crumb Brownies
Reduce fresh apple cider to a syrup and fold it into the batter for concentrated flavor. Scatter a buttery cinnamon streusel over the top before baking. The finished brownies smell exactly like farm-stand doughnuts. They’re especially good served slightly warm for breakfast-style indulgence.
29. Coconut Cobweb Brownies
Spread brownies with glossy chocolate frosting, then use toasted shredded coconut to design lacy webs. The coconut’s nutty crunch contrasts the dense base. A single candy spider or almond “arachnid” completes the picture. They disappear quickly from dessert platters.
30. Apricot Lantern Glow Brownies
Slice cooled brownies into rectangles and cut simple eyes and mouth shapes from the top layer only. Brush the cavities with warm apricot jam so the vibrant filling peeks through like lantern light. The fruity tang balances the rich chocolate. Wrap individually in cellophane for take-home favors.
31. Triple Chocolate Cobblestone Brownies
Fold three kinds of chopped chocolate into thick batter, leaving some pieces poking out on top. As they bake, the exposed chunks melt into rocky, uneven terrain. Dust with gold luster powder for a magical touch. They require no further decoration—flavor does the talking.
32. Cherry Ghoul-ash Brownies
Swirl thick cherry pie filling through the batter before baking. The ruby ribbons maintain their color and create pockets of fruity moisture. A hint of almond extract ties everything together. They’re messy, dramatic, and delicious.
33. Cereal Monster Mash Brownies
Melt marshmallows with butter and spread the gooey layer over baked brownies. Quickly scatter monster-themed fruity cereal before the topping sets. The crunch-chewy combo feels nostalgic and vibrant. Slice with a sharp knife for clean edges through the cereal layer.
34. Matcha Franken-Brownies
Dark cocoa batter forms the base while earthy matcha powder colors a creamy frosting electric green. Pipe thin chocolate lines and small dots along the edges to resemble stitches. Chocolate-covered espresso beans work as bolt “ears.” They’re fun to decorate and deliver a subtle tea note.
35. Rum-Raisin Pirate Brownies
Soak golden raisins in dark rum until plump, then fold them into batter for juicy bursts. Sprinkle coarse demerara sugar on top before baking so crystalline “sand” forms. A tiny chocolate coin pressed into each piece drives home the pirate theme. Adults especially adore the boozy depth.
36. Blueberry Nightshade Brownies
Blueberry preserves swirled into batter create moody pockets of dark fruit. A pinch of black cocoa intensifies the color, pushing it toward midnight purple. The sweet-tart berries cut through the fudgy richness. Serve with a dusting of powdered sugar stars for extra drama.
37. Key Lime Slime Brownies
Whisk key lime juice and zest into confectioners’ sugar for a tangy glaze that stays bright and zingy. Dye it slime green, then pour over chocolate squares letting it ooze naturally. Chocolate and citrus make an unexpectedly balanced team. Chill briefly to set before stacking.
38. Oreo Moon Crater Brownies
Press whole sandwich cookies halfway into the batter. As the brownies rise, the cookies sink just enough to form moon craters. A light dusting of powdered sugar underscores the lunar effect. They’re easy, eye-catching, and universally loved.
39. Bourbon Pecan Haunted Forest Brownies
Fold a splash of bourbon and toasted pecans into batter for Southern flair. Dip pretzel sticks in dark chocolate, allow to set, then plant them in the frosted surface like leafless trees. A mist of edible silver glitter lends ghostly sheen. Adults appreciate the nuanced flavors.
40. Orange-Cardamom Candlelit Brownies
Cardamom adds an exotic spice note that pairs well with bright orange zest in the batter. After baking, stud squares with inch-long segments of candied peel upright so they mimic candle flames. The aroma alone sets a cozy mood. Serve on dark plates to let the fiery orange pop.
41. Graham Pumpkin Cheesecake Brownie Bars
Press a thin graham cracker crust into the pan before pouring on brownie batter. A creamy pumpkin cheesecake layer nestles over the partially baked base, then finishes together. A sprinkle of extra crumbs lends crunch on top. The tidy layers slice cleanly for elegant presentation.
42. Malt Ball Cauldron Bubble Brownies
Stir malted milk powder into the batter for subtle milk-shake flavor. Press malt balls into the warm brownies so they stick without rolling. A drizzle of dark chocolate “steam” completes the cauldron scene. Each bite offers crunchy pops against a fudgy base.
43. Spiced Pear Phantom Brownies
Poach pear halves with cinnamon and clove, then slice thinly and lay over batter. The fruit bakes into tender, translucent shapes that resemble drifting phantoms. A whisper of cocoa powder highlights their outline. The spice-fruit notes make these feel grown-up and refined.
44. Cookie Butter Gremlin Brownies
Velvety cookie butter adds caramelized biscuit flavor plus extra moisture. Drop spoonfuls over batter and swirl with a knife for dramatic ribbons. A scatter of green novelty sprinkles cements the mischievous theme. Fast, flavorful, and freezer-friendly.
45. Molasses Raven Feather Brownies
Adding robust blackstrap molasses deepens cocoa notes and darkens color naturally. Use a small brush to paint feather shapes with slightly thinned black cocoa paste, then dust lightly with edible black glitter. The finished squares resemble raven wings in flight. Flavor and visuals both skew delectably dark.
46. Rosemary Smoky Campfire Brownies
Infuse melted butter with fresh rosemary, strain, then proceed with the recipe. The herb adds pine-like aroma reminiscent of brisk outdoor nights. A finishing sprinkle of smoked salt heightens the campfire illusion. These pair wonderfully with peaty whiskey.
47. Banana Foster Flaming Brownies
Sauté banana coins in butter, brown sugar, and a splash of rum until caramelized. Arrange over baked brownie slabs and spoon the remaining sauce across the top. The bananas bring gooey fruitiness and a faint flambé vibe. Serve slightly warm to enjoy the full caramel aroma.
48. Cappuccino Moonbeam Brownies
A light cappuccino mousse sets on top of dense brownie, offering airy contrast. Use a small crescent-moon template to dust cocoa powder decorations before serving. Coffee notes amplify the chocolate and keep sweetness in balance. Refrigerate until mousse firms for neat slicing.
49. Lemon Poppyseed Vampire Repellent Brownies
Grated lemon zest and a squeeze of juice brighten the batter unexpectedly. A tangy lemon glaze poured over the cooled slab locks in moisture and provides vivid color. Poppyseeds add crunch and graphic appeal. Chocolate and citrus prove they can coexist deliciously.
50. Mint Chip Grave Mist Brownies
Fold chopped mint chocolate bars into the batter for icy pockets. Pipe mint-tinted whipped cream “fog” across the top and sprinkle miniature chips like scattered pebbles. A whisper of edible silver dust gives a haunted mist impression. Keep refrigerated until showtime.
51. Churro Cobweb Brownies
Bake brownies in a rimmed sheet so they’re thin enough to cut into fingers. Brush with melted butter and toss in cinnamon sugar while warm, creating a churro exterior. Arrange the sticks on a platter, then drizzle thin strands of white chocolate across them to weave edible webs. Dip in melted dulce de leche for extra flair.
52. Grapefruit Twilight Brownies
Fresh grapefruit juice counterpoints the dense chocolate, adding subtle bitterness. The blush-colored glaze sets softly, reflecting dusk tones. Candied peel strips lined up at angles evoke fading sunlight. They bring a sophisticated fruit note to the lineup.
53. Brownie Batter Bat Pops
Roll cooled brownies with a touch of frosting into balls, insert sticks, and freeze briefly. Dip in dark chocolate coating, then sandwich miniature wafer cookies to form wings before chocolate sets. Add tiny sprinkle eyes and let dry completely. These portable treats double as decor.
54. Toasted Sesame Spellbook Brownies
Nutty toasted sesame seeds contrast beautifully with sweet chocolate. Press seeds onto the batter before baking to create speckled, parchment-like tops. Use melted white chocolate to pipe runic symbols if desired. The subtle savory element keeps tasters coming back for another square.
55. Cranberry Pistachio Gargoyle Brownies
Bright cranberries and verdant pistachios offer a festive palette that references classic holiday fruitcake but feels right at home for Halloween. Position nuts and berries intentionally to craft stern gargoyle faces on each slice. Their tart-nutty crunch contrasts the fudgy base. Bake an extra pan—people go back for seconds.
56. Butter Rum Jack-O’-Lantern Swirl Brownies
A buttery rum glaze mingles with pumpkin puree swirled through the batter. Use a cookie cutter after cooling to produce neat pumpkin silhouettes. Pipe simple eyes, noses, and wide grins with the remaining glaze. They offer a grown-up flavor wrapped in kid-friendly decoration.
57. Espresso Bean Catacomb Brownies
The espresso beans bake into crunchy nuggets that lend a mocha crunch. Arrange them in grid patterns across the top before baking to echo ancient catacomb walls. A glossy espresso glaze deepens the coffee kick. Serve small squares—they’re potent.
58. Maple Bacon Witch’s Familiar Brownies
Candied bacon pieces provide smoky-sweet bursts against rich chocolate. Maple syrup brushed over warm brownies ties everything together. A delicate dark chocolate drizzle keeps the surface shiny and cohesive. The salty-sweet combo wins converts every time.
59. Salt-and-Pepper Twilight Brownies
A layer of silky ganache takes standard brownies up a notch. Sprinkling freshly ground black pepper alongside flaky salt highlights cocoa bitterness and adds subtle heat. The flavor blooms more fully as brownies rest overnight. Ideal for mature palates craving complexity.
60. Dulce de Leche Scarecrow Brownies
Canned dulce de leche makes decorating effortless—just warm slightly and pipe in crisscross patterns. A sprinkle of shredded toasted coconut resembles hay poking from the sweet “straw.” Each bite is caramel-rich and multi-textured. They travel well for potlucks.
61. Blood Orange Midnight Brownies
Fresh blood orange juice lends jewel-toned color and fragrant citrus notes to a simple icing. Pour over cooled brownies and tilt the pan to coat evenly, letting extra drip away for jagged edges. The tart glaze offsets dense chocolate beautifully. Garnish with a single twist of peel for elegance.
62. Marshmallow Cobblestone Grave Path Brownies
Scatter mini marshmallows across batter halfway through baking so they puff and brown slightly without disintegrating. Once cool, create a winding cookie crumb path on top, ending at a cookie tombstone. The varied textures keep each bite interesting. It’s a show-stopping pan centerpiece.
63. Cherry Cola Cauldron Crackle Brownies
Reduce cherry cola on the stove to make a thick syrup, which replaces part of the sugar in the batter and keeps brownies extra moist. Brush more syrup on top while warm and sprinkle popping candy right before serving. The candies crackle like bubbling potion. Kids listen for the fizz before taking a bite.
64. Pistachio Ghast Brownies
Ground pistachios replace some flour, tinting the interior a natural green and adding nutty depth. Press white chocolate pieces cut with a small ghost cutter onto the surface during the last minutes of baking so they soften slightly. A dot of melted dark chocolate forms simple eyes. They taste indulgent yet feel lighter than traditional versions.
65. Black Sesame Mooncake Brownies
Whip black sesame paste with a touch of honey and shape into thin rounds using a mooncake press or cookie stamp. Lay them over partially baked brownies to finish together, fusing the seed paste to the surface. Earthy sesame flavor offsets cocoa richness, and the stamped patterns look ornate. A dusting of powdered sugar highlights every groove.
Stock the buffet with any mix of these brownies and watch guests sample their way through—there really is a flavor for every ghoul and goblin.
Nathaniel Lee is an avid cook, drawing on his decades of home cooking and fine dining experience. He is a contributing chef at Mashed, and his recipes and contributions have been featured in Tasting Table, Edible Arrangements, Insanely Good Recipes, and The Daily Meal.