Brownie Cookies

If brownies are your love language, you’ll adore these Brownie Cookies! Part brownie and part cookie, they combine the best of both worlds into a fudgy treat. Perfect for any occasion—from casual family gatherings to festive celebrations—these cookies are incredibly quick to make, taking just 20 minutes from start to finish with no chilling required. Their rich chocolate flavor and chewy texture will satisfy even the most discerning dessert lovers.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: These brownie cookies come together in under 20 minutes, making them perfect for last-minute cravings.
• Fudgy Texture: Enjoy a rich, chewy consistency that feels indulgent without being overly sweet.
• Versatile Treat: Great for parties, lunch boxes, or an after-dinner dessert; they fit any occasion.
• No Chill Needed: Unlike traditional cookie recipes, there’s no waiting around; you can bake them right away!
• Decadent Flavor: The combination of semi-sweet chocolate and cocoa powder delivers an intense chocolate experience.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, it’s essential to have the right tools on hand. Here’s what you’ll need to make these delicious Brownie Cookies.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Microwave-safe bowl or pot
• Baking sheets
• Parchment paper
• Cookie scoop

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: A must-have for combining ingredients efficiently without spills.
• Whisk: Helps to incorporate air into your batter for a lighter texture.
• Baking sheets: Provides a sturdy base for cookies while ensuring even baking.
• Cookie scoop: Ensures uniform-sized cookies that bake evenly.

Ingredients

To create these delightful Brownie Cookies, gather the following ingredients:

For the Cookie Base

• 7 ounces semi-sweet 60% cocoa bar (chopped)
• 3/4 cup all-purpose flour (see notes below for measuring)
• 1/4 cup unsweetened Dutch cocoa powder
• 2 teaspoons espresso powder
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon fine sea salt

For the Wet Ingredients

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup light brown sugar (packed)
• 2 large eggs (room temperature)
• 1 egg yolk (room temperature)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For Finishing Touches

• Maldon Flaky Finishing salt

How to Make Brownie Cookies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Line two large baking sheets with parchment paper and set them aside.

Step 2: Melt the Chocolate

In a microwave-safe bowl or a pot over low heat on the stove:
1. Melt the chocolate in 20-second increments, stirring in between until fully melted.
2. Set aside to cool for about 5 minutes while you prepare the other ingredients.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl:
1. Whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, espresso powder, baking powder, and salt.
2. Set this mixture aside.

Step 4: Prepare Butter Mixture

In another glass heat-proof bowl:
1. Combine the butter and sugars.
2. Microwave for 1–2 minutes until melted; stir until fully combined using a whisk.

Step 5: Mix in Eggs and Vanilla

To your butter and sugar mixture:
1. Whisk in the eggs, egg yolk, and vanilla extract until well incorporated.

Step 6: Add Chocolate and Dry Ingredients

Pour the melted chocolate into the bowl:
1. Fold it in gently with a spatula until combined.
2. Add in your dry ingredient mixture and fold until just combined; avoid overmixing.

Step 7: Scoop Cookies onto Baking Sheets

Using a large (3 tbsp) cookie scoop:
1. Place 6–7 cookies spaced about 2 inches apart on one prepared baking sheet.
2. For standard-sized cookies (2 tbsp), place about 9–10 cookies on each tray.
3. Sprinkle tops with a pinch of flaky sea salt before baking.

Step 8: Bake and Cool Cookies

Bake one tray at a time for:
– Large cookies: 9–10 minutes
– Standard cookies: 8–9 minutes

Once baked:
1. Place the tray on a wire rack to cool before baking the next tray.
2. Remember to scoop all batter right away for shiny crinkle tops!

Store any leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2–3 days. Enjoy your delicious Brownie Cookies!

How to Serve Brownie Cookies

Serving brownie cookies is all about enhancing their rich, fudgy flavor and creating a delightful experience. Here are some creative ways to enjoy these delicious treats.

With a Scoop of Ice Cream

• Vanilla Bean Ice Cream – The classic pairing that enhances the chocolatey goodness with creamy sweetness.
• Mint Chocolate Chip – A refreshing twist that adds a cool minty flavor to the rich brownie cookies.

Drizzled with Chocolate Sauce

• Warm Chocolate Ganache – Pouring this warm sauce over your brownie cookies elevates the dessert to a new level of indulgence.
• Caramel Sauce – The sweet and buttery taste of caramel complements the chocolate perfectly.

Paired with Fresh Berries

• Strawberries – The tartness of fresh strawberries creates a delightful contrast with the sweetness of the cookies.
• Raspberries – Their bright color and slight tartness add an elegant touch when served alongside brownie cookies.

With Whipped Cream

• Sweetened Whipped Cream – A dollop of fluffy whipped cream on top adds lightness and balances the richness.
• Flavored Whipped Cream – Try adding a hint of vanilla or almond extract for an extra layer of flavor.

How to Perfect Brownie Cookies

Perfecting brownie cookies takes just a few simple tricks. Follow these tips for delicious results every time!

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients – Ensure your eggs and butter are at room temperature for better mixing and texture.
• Don’t Overmix – Mix until just combined to keep your brownie cookies soft and chewy; overmixing can make them tough.
• Chill Your Dough Before Baking – If you have time, chilling your dough for 30 minutes can enhance the flavors and help maintain shape while baking.
• Watch Baking Time Closely – Keep an eye on your cookies towards the end of the baking time to avoid overbaking, which can dry them out.
• Store Properly – Keep leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for optimal freshness and texture.

Best Side Dishes for Brownie Cookies

While brownie cookies are fantastic on their own, pairing them with side dishes can enhance your dessert experience. Here are some excellent options:

1. Fresh Fruit Salad – A mix of seasonal fruits provides a refreshing contrast to the rich brownie flavors.
2. Chocolate Milkshake – This creamy treat pairs beautifully with brownie cookies, making for an indulgent dessert duo.
3. Peanut Butter Dip – A thick peanut butter dip complements the chocolate perfectly, adding nuttiness to each bite.
4. Coffee or Espresso – The bitterness of coffee enhances the chocolate flavor in brownie cookies, making it a classic combo.
5. Nutty Granola – A sprinkle of nutty granola adds crunch and texture when served alongside each cookie.
6. Cheese Platter – A selection of mild cheeses can offer a unique savory balance to the sweet, fudgy taste of brownie cookies.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To ensure your brownie cookies turn out perfectly, it’s essential to avoid common pitfalls in the baking process.

• Incorrect measuring of ingredients: Always use a kitchen scale or proper measuring cups to ensure accuracy. This helps maintain the right balance of flavors and textures in your brownies.
• Overmixing the batter: Mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies instead of the desired fudgy texture.
• Not letting chocolate cool: Allow melted chocolate to cool briefly before adding it to the mixture. Adding hot chocolate can affect the eggs’ consistency and overall cookie texture.
• Skipping the salt: Salt enhances flavor, so don’t ignore it! A pinch of Maldon flaky salt on top offers a delightful contrast to the sweetness.
• Baking too long: Keep an eye on your cookies in the oven. They should be soft in the center when you take them out; they’ll continue cooking on the baking sheet.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store brownie cookies in an airtight container.
• They will stay fresh for up to 2-3 days.

Freezing Brownie Cookies

• Place cooled brownie cookies in a single layer in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Brownie Cookies

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Place cookies on a baking sheet for 5-7 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat one cookie at a time for about 10-15 seconds. Be careful not to overheat, as they may become tough.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet over low heat, covering with a lid for about 2 minutes. This method keeps them soft and chewy.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes brownie cookies different from regular brownies?

Brownie cookies combine qualities of both brownies and cookies, resulting in a chewy texture that’s fudgy like brownies but easy to eat like cookies.

Can I use cocoa powder instead of chocolate in brownie cookies?

Yes, using cocoa powder can work, but it may alter the texture slightly. Ensure you adjust other ingredients accordingly for moisture.

How do I achieve shiny crinkle tops on my brownie cookies?

To get those shiny tops, scoop and bake your dough immediately after mixing. Letting it sit can affect their appearance.

Can I customize my brownie cookie recipe?

Absolutely! You can add nuts, chocolate chips, or even dried fruits for added flavor and texture variations.

Are brownie cookies suitable for special occasions?

Yes! Brownie cookies are perfect for parties, gatherings, or as gifts due to their rich flavor and appealing look.

Final Thoughts

These brownie cookies are not only quick and easy to make but also incredibly delicious. Their fudgy interior and slight crispiness make them irresistible treats for any occasion. Feel free to customize them with your favorite mix-ins or toppings for an even more personalized touch!