Halloween Brownies

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F. Line a 13x9-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving at least 1 inch overhang on the sides.
2. In a large saucepan over medium-low heat, combine the chopped bittersweet chocolate, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and cubed butter. Stir until the chocolate is fully melted, about 3 minutes. Remove from heat and whisk in the sifted cocoa powder until smooth. Allow to cool for about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Add the vanilla extract and stir. Then gently fold in the flour, kosher salt, and instant espresso powder (if using) until just combined.
4. Spray the prepared pan with baking spray containing flour. Pour the batter into the pan and spread evenly. Tap the pan on the counter to release air bubbles. Bake for about 40 minutes, until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Do not overbake. Let the brownies cool completely in the pan.
5. For the topping: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the remaining cubed butter and chopped bittersweet chocolate. Microwave at 50% power in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until melted. Pour the mixture over the cooled brownies and smooth with a spatula. Immediately top with the assorted candy pieces, candy corn, Reese's Pieces, mini M&M's, candy bones or eyeballs, and Halloween sprinkles. Let set for 30 minutes to 1 hour. Use the parchment handles to lift the brownies out of the pan before slicing.