Have you ever had one of those days where you just crave something decadent yet easy to whip up? That’s exactly how I felt when I found myself staring at my pantry, longing for the sweet embrace of chocolate brownies. As the sun set behind the trees, I craved comfort, and nothing seemed better than the rich, gooey goodness only fresh-baked brownies can offer.
These Chocolate Brownies are more than just a dessert; they’re a warm hug in sweet, chewy form. With each bite, you’re met with the intense flavor of dark chocolate, perfectly flattened by a sprinkle of flaky sea salt that elevates it to a whole new level. Best of all, this recipe is surprisingly simple, ensuring you don’t have to spend hours in the kitchen to treat yourself and loved ones.
Whether you’re looking to impress at a potluck or simply satisfy your own cravings, these brownies will surely be a hit. So, grab those ingredients, and let’s get baking!
Why are these Brownie Cookies a must-try?
Decadent, each bite of these brownie cookies delivers a rich chocolate experience that melts in your mouth. Easy to make, you’ll find the steps straightforward, perfect for bakers of all skill levels. Versatile, these treats can be dressed up with nuts or served plain. Perfect for sharing, they’re sure to impress at gatherings or simply delight those at home. For even more indulgence, consider pairing with a scoop of ice cream for a dreamy dessert!
Brownie Cookie Ingredients
Get ready to indulge your sweet tooth!
For the Batter
- Unsalted butter – 6 tbsp (84 g); melts easily to create a rich flavor in your brownies.
- Chopped dark chocolate – 8 oz (227 g); a must for that deep chocolatey goodness, choose 60% cocoa for a perfect balance.
- All-purpose flour – 1/2 cup (63 g); use spooned and leveled for precise measurements that ensure a chewy texture.
- Dutch-process cocoa powder – 1/4 cup (20 g); gives a deeper flavor and darker color to your brownie cookies.
- Salt – 1/4 tsp; highlights the sweetness and enhances the chocolate flavor.
- Baking powder – 1 tsp; helps your brownies rise just a bit for a decadent texture.
- White granulated sugar – 1/2 cup (100 g); adds sweetness and moisture, making these brownie cookies irresistible.
- Light brown sugar – 1/4 cup + 2 tbsp (83 g); brings a hint of caramel flavor and adds to the chewy texture.
- Eggs – 2, at room temperature; they bind the ingredients together, ensuring a fudgy consistency.
- Vanilla extract – 1 tsp; enhances the overall flavor profile of your brownie cookies.
- Flaky sea salt – for sprinkling; a finishing touch that adds a delightful contrast to the sweetness and enhances the chocolate flavor.
Feel free to mix in chocolate chips or nuts if you want to elevate your brownie cookies even further!
How to Make Brownie Cookies
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Preheat the oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a baking dish with parchment paper or grease it lightly for easy removal later.
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Melt together: In a medium saucepan over low heat, melt the unsalted butter and chopped dark chocolate, stirring until smooth and glossy. This will be the rich base of your brownie cookies.
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Mix dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, Dutch-process cocoa powder, salt, and baking powder. This step ensures your brownie cookies have the right consistency and flavor balance.
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Whisk wet ingredients: In another bowl, combine the eggs, white granulated sugar, light brown sugar, and vanilla extract. Whisk vigorously until this mixture is creamy and well-blended.
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Combine mixtures: Pour the melted chocolate mixture into the egg mixture, stirring until everything is just combined and velvety. This is where your brownie cookies start to take shape!
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Add dry ingredients: Gradually stir the dry ingredient mixture into the wet ingredients. Mix until just combined—don’t overmix, as this helps maintain that luscious texture.
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Pour and sprinkle: Pour the thick brownie batter into your prepared baking dish, smoothing the top. Sprinkle flaky sea salt evenly on top for a delightful finish.
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Bake to perfection: Bake your brownies in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until the edges are set. A toothpick inserted in the center should come out with a few moist crumbs.
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Cool and slice: Allow your brownie cookies to cool in the pan for at least 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. Once cooled, slice them into squares for serving.
Optional: Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the ultimate treat!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Brownie Cookie Variations
Unleash your creativity and make these Brownie Cookies truly your own with delightful twists!
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Nutty Delight: Add 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans for a satisfying crunch. The combination of chewy chocolate and nutty richness is simply divine.
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Espresso Boost: Mix in 1 tsp of instant espresso powder to the batter for an adult twist. It intensifies the chocolate flavor while adding a subtle coffee kick that elevates each bite.
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Minty Fresh: Stir in 1/2 tsp of peppermint extract for a refreshing mint flavor. Complete the treat with a sprinkle of crushed peppermint candies on top for that festive touch.
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Dairy-Free Bliss: Swap the unsalted butter with coconut oil and use dairy-free chocolate. These swaps ensure everyone can enjoy the deliciousness, without sacrificing flavor!
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Smooth Caramel: Drizzle melted caramel on top just before baking for a gooey surprise. The sweet caramel complements the rich chocolate, creating an irresistible combination.
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Spicy Kick: For a little heat, add 1/4 tsp of cayenne pepper or chili powder to the batter. It’s a surprising twist that pairs beautifully with the chocolate base!
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Fruit Infusion: Incorporate 1/2 cup of chopped dried cherries or cranberries. Their tartness brightens up the fudginess and adds a lovely chewy texture.
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Chewy Brownie Chips: Fold in 1/2 cup of chocolate chips into the dough for an extra chocolaty experience. The chips melt perfectly, adding a blissful burst of chocolate in every bite.
These variations are just the beginning—each one offers a new way to enjoy your delicious Brownie Cookies. Embrace the adventure and happy baking!
Expert Tips for Brownie Cookies
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Quality Chocolate: Use high-quality dark chocolate for the best flavor. Avoid imitation chocolates, as they can affect the texture and richness of your brownie cookies.
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Room Temperature Eggs: Ensure your eggs are at room temperature to help create a smoother batter. Cold eggs can cause the mixture to seize.
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Avoid Overmixing: Mix the batter until just combined; overmixing can make your brownie cookies tough instead of soft and chewy.
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Perfect Baking Time: Keep an eye on the baking time; oven temperatures can vary. Remove your brownies when the edges are set yet the center remains slightly gooey for that melt-in-your-mouth experience.
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Store Properly: To maintain freshness, store your brownie cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. They may also be frozen for later enjoyment!
What to Serve with Brownie Cookies?
Indulging in a warm, fudgy brownie cookie is a delightful experience, and pairing it with the right accompaniments can take your treat to the next level.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy sweetness of vanilla ice cream perfectly balances the rich chocolate in brownie cookies, creating a dreamy dessert combo.
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Fresh Berries: A medley of strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries adds a refreshing tartness that cuts through the chocolate’s richness. Enjoying warm cookies with fresh fruit elevates the experience!
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Whipped Cream: Light, fluffy whipped cream serves as a lovely contrast to the dense brownie cookies, adding a touch of airiness that enhances every bite.
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Espresso or Coffee: The boldness of a freshly brewed cup of coffee complements the deep chocolate notes, making it an ideal partner for your brownie cookies.
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Chocolate Sauce: A drizzle of warm chocolate sauce enriches the already decadent brownie cookies, delivering an indulgent treat that chocolate lovers will adore.
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Caramel Sauce: Sweet and salty caramel sauce over brownie cookies offers a delightful contrast that keeps your taste buds dancing with joy.
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Chopped Nuts: Adding crunchy nuts like walnuts or pecans to your brownie cookies gives a satisfying texture and additional flavor that perfectly complements their softness.
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Mint Tea: The refreshing notes of mint tea provide a soothing palate cleanser, balancing the rich flavors of the brownie cookies beautifully.
Make Ahead Options
These Brownie Cookies are ideal for busy home cooks who want to enjoy homemade treats without the last-minute rush! You can prepare the batter and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours; this allows the flavors to meld beautifully, enhancing the taste. To do this, simply complete the mixing steps and transfer the batter into an airtight container. When you’re ready to bake, scoop the chilled batter onto your baking dish and sprinkle with flaky sea salt, then proceed with baking as directed. Just remember, the key to keeping them just as delicious is to not let the batter sit in the fridge for more than a day, ensuring your cookies remain fudgy and rich!
How to Store and Freeze Brownie Cookies
Room Temperature: Store your Brownie Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain their fudgy texture.
Fridge: For longer freshness, keep them in the fridge; they can last about a week. Just allow a few minutes at room temperature before enjoying!
Freezer: Freeze individual Brownie Cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a zip-top bag for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Reheating: To enjoy warm Brownie Cookies, reheat them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds. This enhances the chocolatey goodness!
Brownie Cookies Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best chocolate for my Brownie Cookies?
Absolutely! When it comes to chocolate, opt for high-quality dark chocolate with at least 60% cocoa. This richness provides the deep, fudgy flavor that makes your cookies irresistible. If you prefer a sweeter taste, feel free to swap it for milk chocolate, but keep in mind that the resulting flavor will differ slightly from the classic brownie texture you crave.
How should I store my Brownie Cookies to keep them fresh?
For optimum freshness, store your Brownie Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for about 3 days. They’ll maintain their moist, fudgy texture beautifully! If you want to keep them longer, stashing them in the fridge will extend their life to about a week—just let them sit at room temperature for a few minutes before enjoying!
Can I freeze my Brownie Cookies? If so, how?
Very! Freezing is a fantastic way to preserve your Brownie Cookies. Start by arranging the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet and placing them in the freezer until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a zip-top bag, squeezing out any excess air. They can be frozen for up to 3 months! To enjoy, just thaw them at room temperature or pop them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds to restore that delicious freshness.
What should I do if my Brownie Cookies turn out too cakey?
Oh no! If your Brownie Cookies are more cakey than fudgy, this could be due to overmixing the batter or baking them for too long. To ensure righteously fudgy cookies next time, mix the dry ingredients into the wet just until combined—no more! Keep your eye on the timer as well; baking for around 15-20 minutes should provide that perfect soft center. You want them to be slightly underbaked, as they’ll continue to firm up while cooling.
Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of when making Brownie Cookies?
Absolutely! If you have guests with dietary restrictions, you can easily modify the recipe. For a gluten-free version, substitute the all-purpose flour with almond flour or a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. If you’re catering to vegans, try using flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water per egg) and replace butter with coconut oil or a plant-based alternative. Don’t forget to check your chocolate for animal-derived ingredients if strict veganism is a concern!
What types of nuts can I add for extra crunch?
The more the merrier! Adding nuts such as walnuts or pecans can elevate your Brownie Cookies and add a delightful crunch. Aim for about 1/2 cup of chopped nuts mixed into the batter before you bake. This not only gives your cookies a fun texture but also complements the chocolate beautifully.
Decadent Brownie Cookies That Melt in Your Mouth
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a baking dish or line it with parchment paper.
- In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the unsalted butter and chopped dark chocolate. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring until completely smooth and glossy.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, salt, and baking powder until well combined.
- In another bowl, beat the eggs, granulated sugar, light brown sugar, and vanilla extract together until the mixture is thick and pale in color.
- Gently stir the melted chocolate mixture into the egg mixture until fully blended.
- Gradually incorporate the dry mixture into the chocolate batter, mixing just until combined.
- Using a cookie scoop or spoon, drop rounded tablespoons of the batter onto the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle flaky sea salt generously on top.
- Place in the oven and bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until the edges are set but the centers still look a bit soft.
- Allow the brownie cookies to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.
- Once completely cool, cut into squares.
