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

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.
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.
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.
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.
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!
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.
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.
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.
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.

What to Serve with Chocolate Brownies?

There’s nothing quite like the magic of pairing delicious homemade brownies with delightful sides to create a complete dessert experience.

Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy, cold texture of vanilla ice cream complements the rich warmth of your brownies, creating a heavenly contrast.
Fresh Berries: Add a burst of color and natural sweetness with strawberries or raspberries, balancing the chocolatey richness with a fruity touch.
Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream adds lightness and creaminess, making each bite of brownie feel indulgently airy.
Chocolate Sauce: Drizzle warm chocolate sauce over your brownies for an extra layer of chocolate decadence that every chocoholic will adore.
Espresso: A shot of espresso or a rich coffee enhances the chocolate flavor, making your brownie experience feel gourmet.
Chopped Nuts: Toasted walnuts or pecans add a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the soft, fudgy texture of your brownies.
Caramel Sauce: Sweet, gooey caramel creates a luscious topping that brings out the deeper flavors of the chocolate in your brownies.
Mint Chocolate Chip Ice Cream: The refreshing hint of mint in the ice cream pairs perfectly with brownies, giving a twist on traditional flavors.
Milk: A glass of cold milk is the classic companion for brownies that enhances each decadent bite while helping to wash it down.
Chocolate-Covered Strawberries: For a fancy dessert twist, serve chocolate-covered strawberries alongside your brownies for an elegant presentation.

Brownie Cookie Variations

Get ready to explore delightful twists on your brownie cookies!

Nutty Delight: Stir in 1/2 cup of chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for a satisfying crunch. The combination of creamy chocolate and nutty flavors will surprise your taste buds!
Mint Chocolate: Incorporate 1 teaspoon of peppermint extract into the wet ingredients for a refreshing twist. Perfect for those who love the classic mint and chocolate pairing that feels festive year-round.
Gluten-Free: Swap with 1/2 cup gluten-free all-purpose flour for a gluten-free alternative. Enjoy the same rich, fudgy goodness without compromising on flavor.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of cinnamon to the dry ingredients for a warm, spicy surprise in every bite. It’s a subtle hint that pairs beautifully with chocolate!
Dairy-Free: Use coconut oil instead of butter and choose dairy-free chocolate. This buttery yet rich substitute works wonderfully and keeps the texture just right.
Stuffed Surprise: Before baking, place a small piece of your favorite chocolate bar or a spoonful of peanut butter in the center of each brownie cookie. Bake as directed, and enjoy the molten surprise inside!
Caramel Drizzle: Drizzle warm caramel sauce over the cookies just before serving. The sweet and gooey addition enhances the richness, creating a delightful dessert experience.
Fruit Fusion: Mix in 1/2 cup of dried fruits like cherries or blueberries for a surprising fruity burst. The added texture and flavors will make your brownie cookies even more memorable!

Make Ahead Options

You can easily prepare these Brownie Cookies ahead of time, making them a fantastic choice for meal prep! To save time, you can melt the butter and chocolate mixture up to 24 hours in advance; simply store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Additionally, you can mix the dry ingredients (flour, cocoa powder, salt, and baking powder) ahead of time, keeping them in a sealed container at room temperature for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to bake, just combine the chocolate mixture with the egg and sugar mixture, add the dry ingredients, and follow the rest of the baking instructions. This way, your brownie cookies will taste just as delicious without any hassle when it’s time to indulge!

Storage Tips for Brownie Cookies

Room Temperature: Store your brownie cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week, keeping them soft and chewy.

Fridge: If you prefer a firmer texture, you can refrigerate brownie cookies in a sealed container for up to 10 days, but they may become slightly less moist.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze brownie cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating: To enjoy frozen brownie cookies, simply thaw them in the fridge overnight, then warm them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds for that fresh-out-of-the-oven taste!

Expert Tips for Brownie Cookies

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.
Room Temperature Eggs: Ensure your eggs are at room temperature to help create a smoother batter. Cold eggs can cause the mixture to seize.
Avoid Overmixing: Mix the batter until just combined; overmixing can make your brownie cookies tough instead of soft and chewy.
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.
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!

Chocolate Brownies Recipe FAQs

What type of chocolate should I use for the best flavor?
Absolutely, for these chocolate brownies, it’s best to use high-quality dark chocolate with around 60% cocoa content. This balance of cocoa and sweetness will provide a rich flavor without being overly bitter. Brands like Ghirardelli or Callebaut are wonderful choices to consider!

How long can I store leftover brownies?
You can store your brownie cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. Just make sure they are well sealed to maintain that soft, chewy goodness. If you find they’re not consumed quickly enough, refrigerating them can extend their shelf life a bit longer, up to 10 days, though they might lose some moisture.

Can I freeze brownie cookies for later?
Absolutely! To freeze your brownie cookies, first, allow them to cool completely. Then place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. After that, transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw overnight in the fridge, and then warm them in the microwave for around 10-15 seconds.

What do I do if my brownies sink in the middle?
If your brownies sink in the middle, it could be due to a few factors. Firstly, make sure not to overmix the batter; this can cause excessive air bubbles that may collapse as they cool. Additionally, always check that your baking powder is fresh and hasn’t expired, as old leavening agents can affect the rise. Lastly, ensure they’re cooked through by doing the toothpick test a couple of minutes before the suggested time!

Are these brownies safe for those with nut allergies?
Yes! This chocolate brownie recipe doesn’t include any nuts, making it suitable for those with nut allergies. However, if you’re making them for someone with serious allergies, double-check that all your ingredients, especially chocolate and any optional mixes, are nut-free as well.