As the warm aroma of chocolate fills my kitchen, it becomes clear that something magical is about to happen—like the best of both worlds colliding in my oven. Enter the Salted Brownie Cookies, a sumptuous blend of gooey brownie goodness and cookie chewiness that’s impossible to resist. These little delights boast a shiny, crackly top and a fudgy interior, finished off with a sprinkle of sea salt that takes every bite to new heights. Not only are they incredibly quick to prepare, making them perfect for last-minute cravings, but they’re also a crowd-pleaser that will have everyone coming back for seconds. So, are you ready to elevate your dessert game with these irresistible treats? Let’s dive into the recipe!
Why are these cookies a must-try?
Decadent, these Salted Brownie Cookies deliver a rich chocolate experience that will satisfy even the strongest cravings. Quick to make, you’ll have delicious, warm cookies ready in under 30 minutes! Versatile, feel free to swap in your favorite chocolate or nuts for a personalized touch. Perfect for sharing, they’re an instant hit at gatherings or cozy nights in. And if you love unique flavor combos, try pairing them with a glass of milk or coffee for a delightful pairing!
Salted Brownie Cookies Ingredients
• Dive into the deliciousness with just a few simple ingredients!
For the Cookie Batter
- All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure to your cookies; swap for gluten-free flour if needed.
- Baking Powder – Acts as a leavening agent for that perfect rise.
- Salt – Enhances the overall flavor; use kosher or sea salt for a robust taste.
- Large Eggs – Adds moisture and richness; make sure they’re at room temperature for the best results.
- Large Egg Yolk – Enriches the dough, making it fudgier; a crucial ingredient not to skip!
- Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the cookies and helps keep them moist; brown sugar can add a caramel note.
- Vegetable Oil – Ensures added moisture and flakiness; can be replaced with canola or melted coconut oil.
- Vanilla Extract – Infuses aromatic sweetness; pure vanilla gives the best flavor.
- Unsalted Butter – Adds depth of flavor; this needs to be melted for this recipe.
- Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips – The star ingredient that gives rich chocolate flavor; dark or milk chocolate can be used for a twist.
- Unsweetened Cocoa Powder – Deepens the chocolate flavor; use unsweetened for balanced sweetness.
- Espresso Powder (optional) – Enhances the chocolate flavor; omit if you prefer but highly recommended!
- Sea Salt Flakes (optional) – A sprinkle to garnish, adding a delightful crunch to each bite.
Indulging in these Salted Brownie Cookies will leave you craving more, so gather your ingredients and let’s start baking!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Salted Brownie Cookies
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it’s heating, line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats to prevent sticking. Having these prepped in advance will streamline the process of getting your Salted Brownie Cookies into the oven as soon as the dough is ready.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, and ½ teaspoon of salt until well combined. This dry mixture is crucial for the structure of your cookies, so ensure there are no lumps and all ingredients are evenly distributed before setting it aside.
Step 3: Beat Wet Ingredients
In a separate large bowl, beat together 2 large eggs, 1 egg yolk, 1 cup of granulated sugar, ½ cup of vegetable oil, and 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract on medium-high speed. Continue until the mixture becomes frothy and increases in volume, which should take about 3 minutes. This step adds moisture and richness to the Salted Brownie Cookies.
Step 4: Melt Chocolate
In a small saucepan, melt ½ cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips and ½ cup of unsalted butter over medium heat. Stir continuously until the mixture is smooth and glossy, which should take about 3-4 minutes. Once melted, remove it from the heat and stir in ¼ cup of unsweetened cocoa powder and 1 teaspoon of espresso powder (if using) until fully combined and smooth.
Step 5: Combine Mixtures
Carefully pour the melted chocolate mixture into the bowl with the wet ingredients. Gently mix until just combined, ensuring you don’t overwork the batter. Gradually fold in the dry ingredients from Step 2 until no flour is visible—the batter should be thin and slightly glossy, signaling it’s ready for the next step in making your Salted Brownie Cookies.
Step 6: Scoop the Dough
Using a cookie scoop or two spoons, drop tablespoons of the dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 1.5 inches apart. This gives each cookie room to spread while baking, ensuring each Salted Brownie Cookie has that desired chewy consistency and ample air circulation during cooking.
Step 7: Bake
Before placing the cookie sheets in the oven, sprinkle a pinch of sea salt flakes over the tops of each dollop of dough. Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the tops look shiny and crackly, indicating that they are perfectly done. Keeping a close eye on the time will help you achieve the best texture for your Salted Brownie Cookies.
Step 8: Cool and Serve
After baking, let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for about 5 minutes. This allows them to set up a bit before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. For added indulgence, you can sprinkle extra chocolate chips on top while the cookies are still warm for a delicious touch.
Salted Brownie Cookies Variations
Feel free to get creative with this cookie recipe, making it uniquely yours with these tasty twists!
- Nutty Crunch: Add 1 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans for a delightful crunch that complements the chewy texture beautifully.
- Minty Fresh: Incorporate ½ cup of mint chocolate chips or a few drops of peppermint extract for a refreshing minty twist.
- Spicy Kick: Blend in ½ teaspoon of cayenne pepper or chili powder for an unexpected heat that enhances the chocolate flavor.
- Fruity Delight: Mix in ½ cup of dried cherries or cranberries to add a fruity note that balances the richness of the chocolate.
- Flavored Chocolate: Swap semi-sweet chocolate chips with dark chocolate for a more intense flavor or sea salt caramel chips for added sweetness.
- Coffee Lover: Enhance the espresso powder to 2 teaspoons or mix in ¼ cup of brewed espresso for an extra coffee kick that deepens the chocolate taste.
- Blissful Sweetness: Drizzle melted white chocolate over the finished cookies for a beautiful contrast and sugary bonus; this adds a wonderful festive flair.
If you’re ever in the mood for something extra cozy, don’t forget to check out my delicious Apple Snickerdoodles Cozy. Every bite of these cookies feels like a warm hug. Enjoy experimenting, and happy baking!
Expert Tips for Salted Brownie Cookies
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature; this helps create a smooth, well-blended batter for your Salted Brownie Cookies.
- Don’t Overmix: Once you combine the dry ingredients with the wet, mix until just combined. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies instead of the desired fudgy texture.
- Use a Cookie Scoop: For uniformity, use a cookie scoop when dropping dough onto the baking sheets. This ensures even baking and consistent sizes for all your Salted Brownie Cookies.
- Watch the Baking Time: Start checking your cookies around the 8-minute mark. They should be shiny and crackly on top; if baked too long, they can lose their fudgy interior.
- Cool Before Serving: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet briefly before transferring to a wire rack. This will help them set up and maintain their shape.
How to Store and Freeze Salted Brownie Cookies
Room Temperature: Store your Salted Brownie Cookies in a sealed container at room temperature for up to 2 days to keep them soft and chewy.
Fridge: If you prefer a firmer texture, you can refrigerate the cookies for up to a week in an airtight container, ensuring they don’t absorb moisture.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the baked cookies in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. Simply layer them with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, just pop them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes to restore their delightful fudginess.
Make Ahead Options
Preparing these Salted Brownie Cookies ahead of time is a fantastic way to save time during busy weeknights! You can mix the cookie dough and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just remember to cover it tightly to prevent it from drying out. Alternatively, you can scoop the cookies onto baking sheets and freeze them for up to 3 months—just bake them directly from frozen, adding a couple of extra minutes to the baking time. When you’re ready to enjoy these delicious treats, simply pop them in the oven, and you’ll have freshly baked cookies that are just as fudgy and decadent as if they were made that day!
What to Serve with Salted Brownie Cookies
Indulging in the warm, fudgy delight of these cookies opens up a world of delightful pairings to elevate your dessert experience.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy, cool texture of vanilla ice cream perfectly contrasts the warm, fudgy cookies, creating a classic pairing that satisfies every chocolate lover’s dream. Scoop on a generous portion to enhance every bite!
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Chocolate Ganache: Drizzling rich chocolate ganache over the warm cookies can take your dessert to the next level—intensifying the chocolate flavor and adding a glossy finish that’s irresistible.
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Fresh Berries: The natural tartness of fresh raspberries or strawberries adds a delightful burst of flavor, balancing out the sweetness of the cookies. Pair them for a beautiful, refreshing contrast.
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Coffee or Espresso: A cup of hot, rich coffee or espresso complements the chocolateiness of the cookies, enhancing their flavor while providing a lovely, cozy finish to your dessert.
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Caramel Sauce: Warm caramel sauce drizzled over your cookies adds a buttery sweetness that enhances the salty topping, creating an indulgent treat that feels decadent and satisfying.
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Milk: The classic pairing of a cold glass of milk is perfect for washing down the rich flavors of your cookies, making it a nostalgic and cherished experience for all ages.
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Cheese Plate: For a unique twist, serve with a selection of soft, creamy cheeses. The richness of cheeses like brie or mascarpone can contrast beautifully with the sweet, salty flavors of the cookies.
Layering these elements can turn your simple dessert moment into a celebration of flavors and textures—perfect for sharing with family and friends!
Salted Brownie Cookies Recipe FAQs
What kind of chocolate should I use for these cookies?
For the best flavor, I suggest using semi-sweet chocolate chips as they provide a rich, balanced sweetness. However, feel free to experiment! You can substitute dark chocolate for a more intense cocoa flavor, or use milk chocolate if you prefer a sweeter cookie. Just remember that the type of chocolate you choose will influence the overall taste, so pick your favorite.
How should I store my Salted Brownie Cookies?
Store your Salted Brownie Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. To maintain their chewiness, don’t leave them exposed to air. If you want to keep them longer, you can refrigerate them in an airtight container for up to a week. That way, you can enjoy these delectable treats for a bit longer.
Can I freeze these cookies for later?
Absolutely! To freeze your Salted Brownie Cookies, let them cool completely after baking. Then, place them in a single layer in an airtight container or freezer bag, separated by parchment paper to prevent sticking. You can freeze them for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to indulge, simply warm them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes.
What do I do if my cookie dough seems too thick?
If you find that your cookie dough is thicker than expected, that can happen sometimes. You can add a tablespoon or two of water or milk to the batter to loosen it up. Just be careful not to overdo it; you want a slightly thin yet fudgy texture. Alternatively, ensure your eggs are at room temperature, as this helps in achieving the right consistency.
Is there a gluten-free option for these cookies?
Yes, you can absolutely make gluten-free Salted Brownie Cookies! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free all-purpose blend. Be sure to choose a blend that contains xanthan gum, which helps bind the ingredients together and mimics the texture of regular flour. This way, everyone can enjoy these delicious cookies!
Can I make these cookies egg-free?
While this recipe relies on eggs for moisture and texture, you can substitute each egg with 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce or a flaxseed meal (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water, let sit for 5 minutes). This will help maintain the integrity of the cookie while providing that fudgy indulgence everyone adores.
Irresistibly Fudgy Salted Brownie Cookies for Sweet Cravings
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, and ½ teaspoon of salt until combined.
- In a large bowl, beat together 2 large eggs, 1 egg yolk, 1 cup of granulated sugar, ½ cup of vegetable oil, and 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract until frothy.
- Melt ½ cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips and ½ cup of unsalted butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir until smooth, then mix in ¼ cup of cocoa powder and 1 teaspoon of espresso powder.
- Combine the melted chocolate mixture with the wet ingredients, then gradually fold in the dry ingredients until no flour is visible.
- Drop tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 1.5 inches apart.
- Sprinkle a pinch of sea salt flakes over the tops, then bake for 8-10 minutes until shiny and crackly.
- Let cool on the baking sheets for about 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
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