Baking molds let you make brownies in different shapes and sizes, including individual brownie bites. Traditional mold pans include muffin tins and Bundt pans, while silicone baking molds in various shapes and sizes, including cake pops, have increased the variety of baking options available. While your recipe likely provides cooking times for a traditional 9-inch by 13-inch pan, baking your brownies in smaller molds does not necessarily mean a shorter cooking time.
It’s All About the Depth
When it comes to cooking time, your focus should be on the depth of the brownie batter. Suggested baking times allow for even cooking throughout the brownie. When using a different pan, you don't have to adjust the time unless the batter depth is drastically different. For example, if your batter is 1 inch deep in a 9-inch by 13-inch pan and 1 inch deep in your mold pan, keep the cooking time the same. If the batter is deeper, add a few more minutes to the baking time and drop the temperature by 25 degrees Fahrenheit. If the batter is shallower, cook the brownies for five to 10 minutes less than the recommended time.
Times and Testing for Doneness
The typical baking time for brownies is between 20 and 30 minutes, adjusted for batter depth. Check your brownies about five minutes before the time is up by inserting a toothpick in the center. If it comes out clean, the brownies are cooked.