Pastel Halloween Bat Wing Brownies

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I like this recipe because it’s simple to make but looks impressive once baked and cut into bat shapes. The combination of cocoa powder and two types of sugar gives the brownies a deep, rich flavor, while the vanilla adds a subtle sweetness. The pastel colors make them stand out on any Halloween dessert table, and they’re just as fun to decorate as they are to eat.

Ingredients

(Note: All ingredient amounts are listed in the recipe card below.)

1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup brown sugar (light or dark)
3 large eggs
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 tsp baking powder
1/2 cup pink food coloring
1/2 cup purple food coloring

Directions

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper.

Step 2: In a large bowl, whisk together cocoa powder, flour, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and baking powder.

Step 3: In another bowl, whisk eggs and vanilla extract until frothy. Stir the wet ingredients into the dry mixture until just combined.

Step 4: Divide the batter into two bowls. Mix pink food coloring into one and purple into the other.

Step 5: Drop spoonfuls of each colored batter into the prepared pan. Use a toothpick to swirl the colors together into a bat-wing-like pattern.

Step 6: Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with moist crumbs. Allow to cool completely.

Step 7: Cut the brownies into bat shapes using a cookie cutter or a sharp knife for festive serving.

Servings and Timing

This recipe makes approximately 12 servings.
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes

Variations

Sometimes I like to use pastel green or blue food coloring along with pink and purple for an even more magical look. I’ve also added chocolate chips or white chocolate chunks to the batter for extra richness. For a crunchier texture, I top the brownies with sprinkles or crushed cookies before baking.

Storage/Reheating

I keep these brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, I refrigerate them for up to 5 days. They also freeze well—I wrap individual pieces in plastic wrap, then store them in a freezer bag for up to 2 months. To enjoy, I thaw them at room temperature or warm them slightly in the microwave.

FAQs

Can I make these brownies ahead of time?

Yes, I often bake them a day in advance since they stay moist and fudgy.

Do I have to cut them into bat shapes?

No, I can serve them as regular squares or rectangles, but the bat shapes make them more festive.

Can I use gel food coloring instead of liquid?

Yes, gel food coloring works well and gives more vibrant colors with less liquid.

What’s the best way to swirl the bat wing design?

I use a toothpick or skewer to gently drag through the batter in figure-eight motions.

Can I make them gluten free?

Yes, I use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend in place of the all-purpose flour.

Can I add frosting on top?

Yes, a thin layer of vanilla or cream cheese frosting works nicely if I want extra sweetness.

Can I use butter instead of oil?

This recipe doesn’t call for oil, but if I want extra richness, I melt a little butter and add it in with the eggs.

How do I know when the brownies are done?

I look for moist crumbs on a toothpick; if it comes out clean, the brownies may be too dry.

Can I use other shapes besides bats?

Yes, I sometimes cut them into stars, pumpkins, or hearts depending on the occasion.

Can I double this recipe?

Yes, I bake it in a larger pan and extend the cooking time slightly.

Conclusion

These pastel Halloween bat wing brownies are a fun and delicious way to celebrate the season. I love how the vibrant swirls of color give a playful twist to a classic fudgy brownie, making them as pretty as they are tasty. Whether I bake them for a party or just for a festive family treat, they always bring a smile and plenty of compliments.