Brownie Mix Makeovers

Need an impressive dessert but short on time? Here are 7 easy ways to turn any brownie mix into a gourmet treat using items you probably have in your pantry. Simply add a few ingredients, bake as directed, and voila! Sweet perfection. For best results, let brownies cool completely before cutting.

Simply Decadent Brownies: Substitute raw milk or buttermilk for water. Stir in a teaspoon of vanilla, ½ cup of chocolate chips, and a ½ cup of chopped pecans or walnuts.

Nut Butter Cup Brownies: Stir a cup of nut butter cups (cut in fourths) into the batter. Once baked, sprinkle warm brownies with chocolate chips and spread. Top with chopped nut butter cups.

Salted Caramel Brownies: Add soft caramels cubes to batter and bake. Drizzle warm brownies with caramel sauce or melted caramels. Sprinkle lightly with flaked sea salt.

Peppermint Brownies: Pour ½ of batter into prepared pan. Top with chocolate peppermint patties. Cover with remaining batter and bake. Garnish with frosting and chopped peppermint.

S’Mores Brownies: Layer baked brownies with mini-marshmallows. Broil 30-60 seconds (until marshmallows begin to brown). Remove and top with graham cracker crumbs and chocolate chips.

Cheesecake Brownies: Blend ½ package softened cream cheese, 1 egg, 1 tsp. flour, ½ cup sugar, and 1 tsp. vanilla until smooth. Spoon over brownie batter and swirl before baking.

Mocha Brownies: Substitute strong brewed coffee for water, and add 2 tsp. of espresso powder. Spread chocolate frosting over cooled brownies. Top with chopped coffee beans and hazelnuts.