These irresistible Chocolate Chip Cookie Brownies combine two beloved desserts into one decadent treat. With a fudgy brownie base topped with a golden chocolate chip cookie layer, this dessert bar gives you the best of both worlds in every bite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This delightful dessert mashup is perfect for when you can’t decide between brownies or cookies – now you don’t have to choose! These bars are incredibly simple to make, using convenient shortcuts like boxed brownie mix while still delivering that homemade taste. The contrasting textures of fudgy brownies and chewy cookies create a remarkable dessert experience that will please crowds at potlucks, satisfy family dessert cravings, or make a special treat for yourself. Plus, they’re easy to customize with different mix-ins to make them uniquely yours.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Brownie mix forms the foundation of this recipe, providing a quick and reliable base with that classic rich chocolate flavor. Whether you use a boxed mix or homemade, it creates the perfect fudgy foundation.
All-purpose flour gives structure to the cookie layer, providing that classic chewy texture we all love in a good chocolate chip cookie.
Brown sugar adds a deep, caramel-like sweetness to the cookie layer and helps create that perfect chewy texture. The molasses in brown sugar contributes to the golden color and moisture retention.
Butter brings richness and flavor to the cookie dough. Make sure it’s melted but not too hot when adding to the mixture to achieve the right consistency.
Eggs act as a binding agent in both layers, providing structure and ensuring the proper rise. They also add richness to the final texture.
Vegetable oil keeps the brownie layer moist and tender, resulting in that perfect fudgy texture.
Vanilla extract enhances the flavor profile of the cookie layer, adding warmth and depth that complements the chocolate perfectly.
Chocolate chips create pockets of melty chocolate throughout the cookie layer. You can use semi-sweet, milk, or dark chocolate chips based on your preference.
Water helps thin the brownie batter to the right consistency for baking.
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang on the sides for easy removal later.
- Prepare the brownie layer by combining the brownie mix with eggs, vegetable oil, and water according to package instructions if using a boxed mix. Mix until just combined.
- Pour the brownie batter into the prepared pan, spreading it into an even layer.
- In a separate mixing bowl, prepare the cookie dough by combining the flour and brown sugar, then mixing in the melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract until well incorporated.
- Fold in the chocolate chips until they’re evenly distributed throughout the cookie dough.
- Carefully spread the cookie dough over the brownie layer. You can drop spoonfuls of the dough across the surface and then gently spread it out with a spatula or your fingers.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the cookie layer is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs (but not wet batter).
- Allow the cookie brownies to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack before lifting out using the parchment paper overhang.
- Once cooled, cut into squares and serve.
Servings and Timing
This recipe yields 12 generous servings, perfect for sharing at gatherings or enjoying throughout the week. Preparation takes about 10 minutes, and baking time is approximately 35 minutes, for a total time of 45 minutes. Each serving contains roughly 350 calories, making this a substantial sweet treat.
Variations
Triple Chocolate: Add white chocolate chips to the cookie layer for a triple-chocolate experience.
Nutty Delight: Incorporate chopped walnuts or pecans into either the brownie layer, cookie layer, or both for added texture and flavor.
Peanut Butter Swirl: Swirl peanut butter into the brownie layer before adding the cookie dough for a peanut butter cup-inspired treat.
Mint Chocolate: Add a teaspoon of peppermint extract to the brownie layer and use mint chocolate chips in the cookie dough.
S’mores Inspired: Add mini marshmallows and graham cracker pieces to the cookie layer for a s’mores twist.
Caramel Drizzle: Once baked and cooled, drizzle caramel sauce over the top for extra indulgence.
Storage/Reheating
Counter Storage: Store cookie brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. Place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.
Refrigerator Storage: For longer freshness, store in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. The texture may become slightly firmer when chilled.
Freezer Storage: These bars freeze exceptionally well. Wrap individual pieces in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe container or bag. They’ll keep for up to 3 months.
Reheating: For that fresh-baked taste, microwave a refrigerated piece for 10-15 seconds or a frozen piece for 20-30 seconds. You can also warm them in a 300°F oven for about 5 minutes.
FAQs
How do I know when the cookie brownies are done baking?
The cookie layer should be golden brown on top, and a toothpick inserted in the center should come out with a few moist crumbs but no wet batter. The edges will also start to pull away slightly from the sides of the pan.
Can I use homemade brownie batter instead of a box mix?
Absolutely! Your favorite homemade brownie recipe will work perfectly as the base layer. Just prepare enough batter for a 9×13-inch pan.
Why did my cookie layer sink into the brownie batter?
This typically happens if the brownie batter is too thin or if the cookie dough is too heavy. Try letting the brownie layer bake for about 10 minutes before adding the cookie dough on top.
Can I add other mix-ins to the cookie layer?
Definitely! Consider adding chopped nuts, toffee bits, M&Ms, or other candy pieces. Just keep the total amount of add-ins to about 1-1.5 cups to maintain the right texture.
How do I achieve clean cuts when slicing these bars?
For the cleanest cuts, make sure the bars are completely cooled. Use a sharp knife, wiping it clean between cuts, or try a plastic knife which surprisingly works well for brownies. Chilling the bars for an hour before cutting also helps.
Can I make these cookie brownies ahead of time for a party?
Yes! These bars actually taste even better the day after baking as the flavors have time to meld. They’re perfect for making 1-2 days before your event.
My brownies came out too cakey. What went wrong?
Overmixing the brownie batter or adding too much flour can lead to cakey brownies. Mix just until ingredients are combined and be precise with your measurements.
Can I double this recipe?
Yes, you can double the recipe and bake in two separate 9×13-inch pans. Baking time should remain roughly the same.
Is there a way to make these cookie brownies gluten-free?
Yes, use a gluten-free brownie mix and substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend in the cookie layer.
Can I use cookies and cream flavored brownie mix?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different flavored brownie mixes for unique variations on this treat.
Conclusion
Chocolate Chip Cookie Brownies represent the perfect marriage of two classic desserts, offering the best of both worlds in every bite. The contrast between the fudgy brownie base and the chewy chocolate chip cookie top creates an irresistible texture combination that’s sure to become a family favorite. With simple ingredients and straightforward preparation, this dessert is accessible even to novice bakers, while the endless variation possibilities keep it interesting for those who love to experiment in the kitchen. Whether you’re serving these at a potluck, packaging them for bake sales, or simply treating yourself after a long day, these cookie brownies deliver comfort and indulgence in equal measure.
Print
Chocolate Chip Cookie Brownies
Decadent chocolate chip cookie topped brownies that are sure to impress!
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
Ingredients
- 1 box brownie mix (or homemade brownie mix)
- 1 cup chocolate chips
- 2 eggs
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- 1/4 cup water
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup butter, melted
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a baking pan with parchment paper.
- Prepare brownie mix according to package instructions and pour into the pan.
- In a separate bowl, mix flour, brown sugar, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract.
- Stir in chocolate chips and spread the cookie dough over the brownie layer.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Let cool before slicing into squares and serving.
Notes
- Ensure the layers are spread evenly for the best results.
- Use parchment paper to make removal from the pan easier.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Desserts
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350 kcal
