Name: Cookie Dough Brownies Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 1 h 50 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted; ¾ cup white sugar; ¾ cup light brown sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 2 eggs; ¾ cup all-purpose flour; ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder; ½ teaspoon salt; ¼ cup (½ stick) unsalted butter, softened; ¼ cup brown sugar; ¼ cup white sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 3 tablespoons milk of choice; 1 cup (4¼ oz.) all-purpose flour; ½ teaspoon salt; ½ cup mini chocolate chips

Jump to Recipe

If you love the best of both worlds—the rich fudginess of brownies and the sweet, nostalgic bite of cookie dough—then you are going to adore these Cookie Dough Brownies. This delightful dessert combines two classic treats into one irresistible bar, where a dense chocolate brownie base is topped with a luscious layer of safe-to-eat cookie dough studded with mini chocolate chips. Each bite is a harmonious contrast of textures and flavors that will have you reaching for seconds and thirds without hesitation. Whether for a special occasion or a cozy night in, Cookie Dough Brownies offer an unforgettable indulgence that’s surprisingly simple to make.

Cookie Dough Brownies Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are straightforward and pantry-friendly, yet each plays a vital role in achieving the perfect balance of moist brownies and creamy cookie dough topping. The combination of melted butter and sugars creates a tender crumb for the brownies, while cocoa powder brings that intense chocolaty depth. Meanwhile, the cookie dough layer uses softened butter and a mix of sugars to form a rich, flavorful spread that complements the base beautifully.

½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted: Essential for the fudgy texture of the brownie base.
¾ cup white sugar: Adds sweetness and helps create a tender crumb in the brownies.
¾ cup light brown sugar: Provides moisture and a hint of caramel flavor to the brownie layer.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances overall flavor with warm, fragrant notes.
2 eggs: Binds the brownie ingredients and adds richness.
¾ cup all-purpose flour: Forms the structure of the brownies, balancing the fudginess.
½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder: Delivers that intense chocolate flavor without excess sweetness.
½ teaspoon salt: Balances sweetness and intensifies chocolate taste.
¼ cup (½ stick) butter, softened: Creates a creamy base for the cookie dough topping.
¼ cup brown sugar: Adds toffee notes and moisture in the cookie dough layer.
¼ cup white sugar: Provides sweetness and structure to the cookie dough.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds warmth and depth to the cookie dough flavor.
3 tablespoons milk of choice: Helps achieve the perfect consistency for spreading the cookie dough.
1 cup (4¼ oz.) all-purpose flour: The main dry ingredient that forms the cookie dough’s body.
½ teaspoon salt: Enhances dessert flavors in the cookie dough.
½ cup mini chocolate chips: Melts into little pockets of chocolate bliss in the cookie dough layer.

How to Make Cookie Dough Brownies

Step 1: Prepare the Brownie Base

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F and lining an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper or foil, lightly greased to prevent sticking. This set-up ensures your brownies come out perfectly intact and easy to remove.

Step 2: Mix the Brownie Batter

In a large bowl, combine the melted butter, white sugar, light brown sugar, and vanilla extract. Beat in the eggs one at a time, making sure each is fully incorporated before adding the next. This careful mixing technique helps create that moist, tender texture every brownie lover craves.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients with Wet

In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, and salt. Gradually fold the dry mixture into your wet ingredients until everything is just blended. Spread this luscious chocolate batter evenly in your prepared pan with a spatula, making sure there are no air pockets.

Step 4: Bake the Brownies

Place the pan into the preheated oven and bake for about 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Once baked, transfer the pan to a wire rack to cool completely—this step is crucial before adding the cookie dough layer so that it doesn’t melt or become overly soft.

Step 5: Prepare the Cookie Dough Layer

While the brownies cool, in a medium bowl, mix together the softened butter, brown sugar, and white sugar until smooth and creamy. Whisk in the vanilla extract and milk, then gradually stir in the flour and salt until the dough holds together. Finally, fold in the mini chocolate chips to add pockets of melty chocolate throughout the cookie dough topping.

Step 6: Assemble and Chill

Spread the cookie dough evenly over the cooled brownie base, smoothing the top gently with a spatula. Place the entire pan in the refrigerator for about 1 hour to allow the cookie dough to firm up nicely, which makes cutting clean squares a breeze and ensures the two layers hold together wonderfully.

How to Serve Cookie Dough Brownies

Garnishes

These brownies are stunning on their own, but to elevate your serving, consider a dusting of powdered sugar, a drizzle of warm chocolate sauce, or a sprinkling of crushed nuts like pecans or walnuts. Fresh berries or a small scoop of vanilla ice cream complement the rich chocolate and sweet cookie dough beautifully, adding a refreshing balance to each bite.

Side Dishes

Cookie Dough Brownies pair wonderfully with a cold glass of milk or a creamy cup of coffee. For a more decadent experience, serve alongside whipped cream or a simple fruit salad to lighten things up. A cup of chai tea can also offer an aromatic contrast making your dessert break truly special.

Creative Ways to Present

If you want to impress guests or make a special treat for someone, cut these brownies into mini squares and serve on a platter with toothpicks for easy grabbing. For an extra indulgent treat, layer broken pieces between scoops of ice cream to create an irresistible sundae. You can also sandwich layers of the cookie dough brownie with whipped cream for a delightful layered dessert.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep your Cookie Dough Brownies fresh by storing them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If your kitchen tends to be warm, it’s better to refrigerate them to prevent the cookie dough topping from becoming too soft, but remember to bring them to room temperature before serving for the best texture.

Freezing

Want to keep these around longer? Wrap individual squares tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw them in the refrigerator overnight for an easy and delicious treat on demand.

Reheating

While Cookie Dough Brownies are best enjoyed chilled or at room temperature, if you prefer them warm, you can microwave a piece for about 10 seconds. Be cautious not to melt the cookie dough layer completely—just a slight warmth will enhance the gooey texture and flavor.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought cookie dough instead of making the topping?

While you can, homemade cookie dough topping is safer and specially tailored for this recipe since it’s made without eggs, to ensure it’s safe to eat raw and blends perfectly with the brownie base. Store-bought dough might be too sweet or too firm to spread evenly.

Do I need to use mini chocolate chips in the cookie dough layer?

Mini chocolate chips are ideal because they melt just enough to create pockets of chocolate but hold their shape well. You can substitute with regular chocolate chips or chunks, but the texture may be slightly different.

Can I make these gluten-free?

Absolutely! Swap the all-purpose flour in both the brownie and cookie dough layers for a gluten-free flour blend. Keep an eye on baking time, as it might vary slightly depending on your flour choice.

What’s the best way to cut these brownies after chilling?

Use a sharp knife warmed slightly under hot water and wiped dry before cutting. This helps achieve clean edges without dragging the cookie dough layer.

Are these Cookie Dough Brownies suitable to bring to a party?

Yes! They’re a crowd-pleaser and can be made ahead for easy transport. Chilling them solidifies the cookie dough layer, making them perfect for serving at gatherings without the mess.

Final Thoughts

Making these Cookie Dough Brownies is like giving yourself a big, delicious hug from the inside out. They’re fun, indulgent, and surprisingly easy to whip up when you want a dessert that feels extra special without the fuss. So next time you’re craving something chocolatey and sweet, don’t hesitate to dive into this incredible combo—you’ll be so glad you did!

Cookie Dough Brownies Recipe

★★★★★

5.3 from 21 reviews

Author: Zoe
Total Time: 1 hour 50 minutes
Yield: 16 brownies 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Delight in these decadent Cookie Dough Brownies featuring a rich, fudgy brownie base topped with a creamy, chocolate chip-studded cookie dough layer. This indulgent dessert combines two classic favorites in one irresistible treat, perfect for parties, special occasions, or any time you’re craving a chocolatey sweet delight.

Instructions

Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper or foil and lightly grease to prevent sticking.
Make Brownie Batter: In a large bowl, combine the melted butter, white sugar, brown sugar, and vanilla extract. Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition until the mixture is smooth and thoroughly blended.
Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, unsweetened cocoa powder, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture into the wet ingredients, stirring until just blended.
Bake Brownies: Spread the brownie batter evenly in the prepared baking dish. Bake in the preheated oven for about 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Remove from oven and allow to cool completely on a wire rack.
Prepare Cookie Dough Layer: In a medium bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and white sugar until smooth. Whisk in the vanilla extract and milk until fully incorporated. Stir in the all-purpose flour and salt until a dough forms. Fold in the mini chocolate chips evenly throughout the dough.
Assemble and Chill: Spread the cookie dough evenly over the cooled brownies layer. Refrigerate the assembled brownies for at least 1 hour, or until the cookie dough layer firms up.
Serve: Once firm, cut into squares and serve chilled or at room temperature for the perfect gooey, chocolatey indulgence.

Notes

Ensure the brownies are completely cooled before spreading the cookie dough layer to prevent melting and mixing of layers.
You can substitute mini chocolate chips with regular-sized chips or chunks for a different texture.
For a dairy-free option, use plant-based butter and milk alternatives.
Store leftovers refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
Allow the brownies to come to room temperature before serving for the best flavor and texture.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American