These Easy Mexican Brownies put a spicy twist on a classic favorite. Rich, fudgy, and infused with warm spices like cinnamon and cayenne, these brownies are a bold upgrade to your typical dessert bar. Perfect for potlucks, fiestas, or a cozy night in, they offer just the right balance of sweet and heat.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

A simple one-bowl recipe
A unique flavor combo that impresses guests
Spiced just enough for a warm finish without overwhelming heat
Perfect for making ahead and storing
A crowd-pleasing dessert with a touch of Mexican flair

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

All-purpose flour
Unsweetened cocoa powder
Ground cinnamon
Cayenne pepper
Salt
Unsalted butter
Granulated sugar
Eggs
Vanilla extract
Semi-sweet chocolate chips (optional for extra richness)

directions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease or line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper.
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, cinnamon, cayenne, and salt.
In a separate large bowl, melt the butter. Stir in the sugar until well combined.
Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in vanilla.
Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until just combined. Fold in chocolate chips if using.
Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and smooth the top.
Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with moist crumbs.
Let cool completely in the pan before cutting into squares.

Servings and timing

Makes 9 to 12 brownies, depending on size. Preparation takes about 10 minutes, and baking time is approximately 25-30 minutes. Total time: 35-40 minutes.

Variations

Add a pinch of nutmeg or cloves for deeper spice complexity
Mix in chopped nuts or swirl in dulce de leche for added texture and sweetness
Substitute chipotle powder for cayenne for a smoky flavor
Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream

storage/reheating

Store brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to a week or freeze for up to 2 months. To reheat, microwave individual brownies for 10-15 seconds or warm in a 300°F oven for about 5 minutes.

FAQs

What makes Mexican brownies different from regular brownies?

Mexican brownies include spices like cinnamon and cayenne, which add warmth and a slight kick to the classic fudgy treat.

Can I make these brownies without cayenne pepper?

Yes, you can leave out the cayenne if you prefer no heat. They’ll still have the cinnamon spice for flavor.

Are these brownies very spicy?

They’re mildly spicy. The cayenne adds warmth rather than intense heat, but you can adjust the amount to suit your taste.

Can I use boxed brownie mix instead?

Yes, add cinnamon and cayenne to a boxed brownie mix for a quick shortcut with a Mexican twist.

What kind of cocoa powder should I use?

Unsweetened natural cocoa powder works best for a rich chocolate flavor.

Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely. Double the ingredients and use a 9×13-inch baking pan. Adjust baking time to 35-40 minutes.

What type of chocolate chips work best?

Semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips complement the spices well, but you can use milk chocolate if you prefer.

How do I know when the brownies are done?

A toothpick inserted in the center should come out with moist crumbs, not raw batter.

Can I make these gluten-free?

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

Should I serve these brownies warm or chilled?

They’re delicious both ways. Warm offers a gooey texture, while chilled brownies are dense and fudgy.

Conclusion

Easy Mexican Brownies are a bold, exciting twist on a beloved classic. Whether you’re looking for something unique to bring to a gathering or just want to spice up your dessert game, these brownies are sure to impress. Rich, fudgy, and just the right amount of heat—they’re a must-try treat for any chocolate lover with a taste for adventure.

Easy Mexican Brownies