In our book, brownies and cookies are as synonymous with the big game as the messy, savory stuff. And the easiest way to keep your focus during the fourth quarter is to munch on handheld desserts — no utensils or hand-eye coordination necessary.

If it’s bold brownies you’re after, skip the boxed mix and opt for a simple, but super rich recipe, like Alton’s Cocoa Brownies (shown above). Add extra crunch and sweetness by mixing chocolate nougat bars into the batter, yielding these Candy Bar Chocolate Brownies.

While you’re drinking your beer, why not eat it, too? Dave Lieberman's moist, rich Chocolate Stout Cupcakes (topped with cream cheese frosting) will pair perfectly with your favorite brew.

For those who long for peanut butter above all else, transform blondies into Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Bars that are thick, chewy and rich with nutty flavor.

And of course, you can’t go wrong with a chocolate chip cookie. But after all those great mains, plain cookies won’t do — add smoky bacon to your dough to turn out a sweet and salty surprise.