Indulge in the ultimate treat with these Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Brownies. This delightful dessert combines a rich, fudgy brownie base with a layer of egg-free cookie dough, topped off with a luscious chocolate drizzle.
FULL RECIPE:
Ingredients
For the Brownie Layer:
- 2 cups semisweet chocolate chips
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter
- 1½ cups granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon salt
For the Cookie Dough Layer:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, at room temperature
- 1 cup light brown sugar, packed
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ¼ cup milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2½ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 2 cups mini semisweet chocolate chips
For the Chocolate Drizzle:
- 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
- 1 tablespoon shortening
Directions
- Prepare the Brownie Layer: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper. In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the chocolate chips and butter. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring after each, until melted and smooth. Stir in the granulated sugar and vanilla extract until well combined. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Gradually mix in the flour and salt until just combined; avoid overmixing. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.
- Prepare the Cookie Dough Layer: In a large bowl, beat the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy. Mix in the milk and vanilla extract until smooth. Gradually add the flour and salt, mixing until well combined. Stir in the mini chocolate chips. If concerned about consuming raw flour, spread it on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 5 minutes to eliminate potential bacteria before adding to the mixture. Spread the cookie dough evenly over the cooled brownie layer.
- Prepare the Chocolate Drizzle: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the chocolate chips and shortening. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring after each, until melted and smooth. Drizzle the melted chocolate over the cookie dough layer.
- Set and Serve: Refrigerate the assembled brownies until the cookie dough and chocolate drizzle are firm, approximately 1 hour. Cut into squares and serve. For easier handling, consider placing each brownie square into a cupcake liner.
Nutrition Facts
- Serving Size: 1 brownie (based on 24 servings)
- Calories: 420
- Total Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
- Sodium: 150mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 50g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 38g
- Protein: 4g
What Makes These Brownies Special?
Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Brownies are the perfect combination of two beloved treats: rich, fudgy brownies and creamy, egg-free cookie dough. This dessert offers a layered experience that satisfies both chocolate lovers and cookie dough enthusiasts. The texture contrast between the dense brownie layer and the smooth, melt-in-your-mouth cookie dough makes every bite a delightful indulgence.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Double Dessert Delight: If you love both brownies and cookie dough, this recipe allows you to enjoy them together in one bite.
- Safe to Eat Cookie Dough: Since the cookie dough layer is egg-free, it’s completely safe to eat without any concerns about raw eggs.
- Easy to Customize: You can switch up the chocolate chips for white chocolate, dark chocolate, or even peanut butter chips.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether you’re baking for a party, a family gathering, or simply satisfying your sweet tooth, these brownies are always a hit.
Tips for Making the Best Brownies
- Use High-Quality Chocolate: Since chocolate is a key ingredient in the brownies, using good quality chocolate chips or bars will enhance the flavor.
- Don’t Overmix the Batter: Overmixing the brownie batter can lead to tough brownies. Stir just until the ingredients are combined.
- Allow the Brownies to Cool Completely: If you try to spread the cookie dough over warm brownies, it may become too soft or melt. Let them cool completely for the best results.
- Refrigerate for Clean Cuts: Chilling the brownies before slicing helps create neat, even squares without a mess.
How to Store and Serve
- Refrigeration: Store the brownies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. This keeps the cookie dough layer firm and fresh.
- Freezing: You can freeze these brownies for up to three months. Wrap each square individually in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer-safe bag.
- Serving Suggestion: For an extra indulgent treat, serve these brownies with a scoop of vanilla ice cream and a drizzle of hot fudge.
Variations to Try
- Peanut Butter Lovers: Add peanut butter chips to the cookie dough layer or drizzle melted peanut butter over the top.
- Oreo Twist: Crushed Oreos can be mixed into the cookie dough layer for added crunch and flavor.
- Salted Caramel: Drizzle homemade caramel sauce on top and sprinkle with a pinch of sea salt for a sweet-salty balance.
- Gluten-Free Option: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend to make this recipe gluten-free.
- Nutty Delight: Mix in chopped pecans, walnuts, or almonds for an added crunch.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Skipping the Cooling Step: If you rush and don’t allow the brownies to cool completely, the cookie dough layer may not set properly.
- Using Melted Butter for the Cookie Dough Layer: Softened, but not melted, butter ensures a creamy and smooth cookie dough consistency.
- Overbaking the Brownies: If overbaked, the brownies can become dry. Take them out when a toothpick comes out with a few moist crumbs.
- Not Using Parchment Paper: Lining the baking pan with parchment paper helps in easily removing the brownies from the pan without sticking.
Healthier Alternatives
While these brownies are indulgent, there are ways to make them slightly healthier:
- Reduce Sugar: Use coconut sugar or a sugar substitute like monk fruit sweetener.
- Use Whole Wheat Flour: Swap all-purpose flour for whole wheat flour in both the brownie and cookie dough layers.
- Dairy-Free Option: Use dairy-free chocolate chips and replace butter with coconut oil or a plant-based alternative.
- Protein Boost: Add a scoop of vanilla or chocolate protein powder to the cookie dough layer.
Perfect Pairings
- Beverages: These brownies pair perfectly with a hot cup of coffee, a glass of cold milk, or even a warm mug of hot chocolate.
- Ice Cream: Serve with vanilla, caramel, or cookie dough ice cream for an extra decadent experience.
- Whipped Cream: A dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa powder can elevate the presentation and taste.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I bake the cookie dough layer? No, the cookie dough layer is designed to be eaten raw (without eggs) and doesn’t need baking. Baking it would change its texture completely.
- How do I make sure my cookie dough isn’t grainy? Ensure you beat the butter and sugars together long enough until the texture is smooth and creamy.
- Can I make this recipe ahead of time? Yes! These brownies are perfect for making ahead since they taste even better after chilling in the refrigerator.
Conclusion
Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Brownies are the ultimate dessert for anyone who loves brownies and cookie dough. The combination of rich, fudgy brownies with a creamy cookie dough layer creates a unique texture and flavor that’s hard to resist. Whether you’re making them for a special occasion or just to satisfy a sweet craving, they’re sure to be a hit. With various ways to customize, store, and serve them, this dessert is as versatile as it is delicious.