Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Brownies Recipe
If you want to experience a dessert that brilliantly combines two irresistible favorites, you’re in for a treat with these Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Brownies. Imagine biting into a fudgy, rich brownie base topped generously with creamy, soft cookie dough that’s packed with melty chocolate chips. This dessert is all about the delightful contrast between the warm, dense brownie and the cool, sweet cookie dough layer, making every mouthful a harmony of textures and flavors that’s simply unforgettable.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of these Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Brownies comes from a handful of straightforward ingredients, each playing its own special part. From the rich butter and just the right amount of sugar for sweetness, to the cocoa powder that gives the brownies their deep chocolate flavor, every component is essential for that perfect balance.
- 1 cup unsalted butter: This forms the luscious base for the brownie layer, adding richness and moisture.
- 2 cups granulated sugar: Sweetens and helps create that classic chewy brownie texture.
- 4 large eggs: These bind everything together and give the brownies their structure.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor with a warm, aromatic note.
- 1 cup all-purpose flour: Provides the body for both the brownies and cookie dough layers.
- 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder: The star for that rich chocolate flavor in the brownie layer.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances sweetness and intensifies the chocolate notes.
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips: Adds bursts of melty chocolate throughout the brownies.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened: Essential for that soft, creamy cookie dough topping.
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed: Gives the cookie dough its signature depth and chewiness.
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar: Balances sweetness in the cookie dough.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Lifts the cookie dough with a fragrant warmth.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Highlights the sweetness and complements the chocolate chips in the dough.
- 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips: Adds little pockets of chocolate delight in the cookie dough.
- 2 tablespoons milk: Softens the cookie dough, making it spreadable but still firm after chilling.
How to Make Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Brownies
Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Preheat
Start by heating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Make sure to grease your 9×13 inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper to prevent any sticking and make your life easier when it comes time to remove the brownies.
Step 2: Make the Brownie Batter
Melt 1 cup of unsalted butter in a large bowl, then stir in the granulated sugar until it’s well combined — this ensures sweetness fuses into the buttery goodness perfectly. Next, beat in the eggs one by one for a smooth, homogenous batter, then swirl in that splash of vanilla extract for extra flavor depth.
Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients and Mix
In a separate bowl, whisk together your all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, and salt. This dry mix will give your brownies the classic chocolate-rich body. Slowly add it into your butter-sugar-egg mixture, stirring just until combined—overmixing can toughen your brownies, so keep it gentle.
Step 4: Add Chocolate Chips and Bake
Fold in the chocolate chips so they’re distributed throughout the batter, then pour everything evenly into your prepared pan. Bake for about 25 to 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs—this ensures your brownies stay fudgy and tender. Let the layer cool completely in the pan before moving to the next step.
Step 5: Prepare the Cookie Dough Layer
While the brownies cool, whip together the softened butter with brown and granulated sugars until fluffy and light. Stir in vanilla extract for aromatic flair, then mix in flour and salt to build the cookie dough’s base. Pour in the milk—it softens the dough just enough to spread smoothly without losing its shape—and finally stir in your chocolate chips for that classic cookie crunch.
Step 6: Layer and Chill
Once the brownie base is completely cooled, spread the cookie dough evenly over the top, creating a deliciously thick layer. Pop the pan in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This step helps the cookie dough firm up nicely so you can slice clean squares without any mess.
Step 7: Enjoy Your Creation
After chilling, cut your masterpiece into about 12 squares. Serve these Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Brownies chilled or allow them to come to room temperature according to your preference and enjoy the heavenly duo of fudgy brownie and sweet cookie dough in every bite!
How to Serve Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Brownies
Garnishes
A simple dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of warm caramel or chocolate sauce can add a lovely touch to your Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Brownies. Fresh berries or a sprinkle of flaky sea salt can also elevate the flavors, offering a perfect balance of sweet and savory to tease your taste buds.
Side Dishes
Pair these brownies with a scoop of vanilla or salted caramel ice cream to create an indulgent dessert experience. A fresh cup of coffee or a creamy latte also complements the rich, chocolatey flavors beautifully, making it a perfect afternoon treat.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving your brownies as mini layered parfaits with whipped cream and crushed cookies, or cut them into bite-sized squares and place them on decorative skewers with strawberries or marshmallows for a fun party platter. The layered textures of Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Brownies truly inspire creative presentation options!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftover brownies (which is rare!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep the cookie dough layer firm and fresh. They will stay delicious for up to 4 days, so you can savor them slowly over the week.
Freezing
You can freeze these brownies for longer storage by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap followed by foil, or placing them in a sealed container. Freeze for up to 3 months for the best texture and flavor. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.
Reheating
For a warm treat, remove the brownies from the fridge and microwave them in short bursts (about 10 seconds) just until slightly soft—avoid overheating to preserve the delightful contrast between the warm brownie and cool cookie dough topping.
FAQs
Can I use store-bought cookie dough instead of making the cookie dough layer?
While store-bought cookie dough can save time, homemade cookie dough allows you to control the sweetness and texture perfectly for these brownies. Also, homemade dough made without eggs is safer to eat raw in this context.
What type of chocolate chips work best in these brownies?
Semi-sweet chocolate chips are ideal as they provide a nice balance of sweetness that complements both the brownie and cookie dough layers without overpowering them.
Can I make these brownies gluten-free?
Yes! Substituting the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend will work, but make sure the blend you choose is suitable for baking and doesn’t alter the texture too much.
Is it necessary to refrigerate the brownies after assembling?
Refrigerating the brownies helps the cookie dough layer firm up and makes slicing easier. It also helps keep the texture just right when you serve them chilled or at room temperature.
Can I make the cookie dough layer dairy-free?
Absolutely! You can swap the butter and milk with your favorite dairy-free alternatives, such as vegan butter and almond or oat milk, to keep these brownies deliciously dairy-free.
Final Thoughts
These Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Brownies are a celebration of two all-time favorite treats coming together in the most delightful way. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just because, they’re sure to bring smiles and satisfied sighs. I can’t wait for you to try them and experience this joyful mix of fudgy brownie bliss and creamy cookie dough goodness for yourself!
Print
Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Brownies Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 12 brownies 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the ultimate dessert with these Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Brownies, featuring a rich, fudgy brownie base topped with a creamy, chocolate-studded cookie dough layer. This treat combines the best of both worlds for a decadent, crowd-pleasing sweet.
Ingredients
Brownie Layer
- 1 cup unsalted butter
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
Cookie Dough Layer
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 2 tablespoons milk
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line a 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy removal.
- Make Brownie Batter: In a large mixing bowl, melt the 1 cup of butter. Stir in 2 cups of granulated sugar until well combined, creating a smooth base for your brownies.
- Add Eggs and Vanilla: Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition to incorporate air and ensure a smooth batter. Stir in 1 teaspoon vanilla extract for flavor.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together 1 cup all-purpose flour, 1 cup cocoa powder, and 1/2 teaspoon salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined to keep the batter light and airy.
- Fold in Chocolate Chips: Gently fold 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips into the batter, evenly distributing the chocolate for melty bites throughout the brownies.
- Bake Brownies: Pour the batter into the prepared pan, spreading evenly. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out with a few moist crumbs. Let cool fully in the pan.
- Prepare Cookie Dough Layer: While brownies cool, cream together 1/2 cup softened butter, 1/2 cup packed brown sugar, and 1/4 cup granulated sugar until fluffy. This forms a creamy base for the cookie dough topping.
- Add Vanilla and Dry Ingredients: Mix in 1 teaspoon vanilla extract. Then stir in 1 cup all-purpose flour and 1/4 teaspoon salt until the dough is thoroughly combined.
- Incorporate Milk and Chocolate Chips: Add 2 tablespoons milk and 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips, mixing until evenly distributed for a moist, flavorful cookie dough.
- Top Brownies with Cookie Dough: Once the brownie layer is completely cool, spread the cookie dough evenly over the top, creating a thick, luscious layer.
- Chill: Refrigerate the assembled dessert for at least 30 minutes to allow the cookie dough to firm up, making it easier to cut and enhancing texture.
- Slice and Serve: Cut into 12 squares and serve chilled or at room temperature. Enjoy your delicious Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Brownies!
Notes
- Ensure brownies are completely cool before spreading the cookie dough to prevent melting and mixing of layers.
- You can substitute semi-sweet chocolate chips with milk or dark chocolate chips based on preference.
- Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container and consume within 3-4 days for best freshness.
- For a nutty twist, consider adding chopped walnuts or pecans to the brownie batter.
- If you want a gluten-free version, use a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour in place of all-purpose flour.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 brownie (approx. 1/12 of recipe)
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: thirty-five grams
- Sodium: 160 mg
- Fat: 20 g
- Saturated Fat: 12 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
- Trans Fat: 0.2 g
- Carbohydrates: 45 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 4 g
- Cholesterol: 80 mg
Keywords: Chocolate chip cookie dough, brownies, dessert, chocolate brownies, cookie dough topping, baked desserts
