Chocolate Chip Cookie Brownies

Chocolate Chip Cookie Brownies, also known as “brookies,” combine two all-time favorite desserts into one incredibly indulgent treat. With a rich, fudgy brownie base topped by a gooey layer of classic chocolate chip cookie dough, this dessert is chewy, chocolatey, and utterly satisfying. It’s perfect for parties, bake sales, or whenever you can’t decide between cookies and brownies.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Why choose between brownies and cookies when you can have both in one bite? These layered bars bring together the best of both worlds: a dense, decadent brownie bottom and a buttery cookie top speckled with melty chocolate chips. They’re easy to make from scratch (or with a mix if you’re in a hurry) and guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser every time.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the brownie layer:

• Unsalted butter, melted
• Granulated sugar
• Brown sugar (optional, for chewiness)
• Eggs
• Vanilla extract
• Unsweetened cocoa powder
• All-purpose flour
• Salt
• Chocolate chips or chunks (optional)

For the cookie layer:

• Unsalted butter, softened
• Brown sugar
• Granulated sugar
• Egg
• Vanilla extract
• All-purpose flour
• Baking soda
• Salt
• Chocolate chips or chunks

directions

this recipe

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch or 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper and lightly grease.
2. Make the brownie layer: In a mixing bowl, whisk melted butter with sugars, eggs, and vanilla until smooth. Stir in cocoa powder, flour, and salt. Fold in chocolate chips if using. Spread evenly into the prepared pan.
3. Make the cookie layer: In another bowl, cream softened butter with both sugars until light and fluffy. Add egg and vanilla, then mix in flour, baking soda, and salt until just combined. Fold in chocolate chips.
4. Drop spoonfuls of the cookie dough on top of the brownie layer, gently spreading it across the surface (it doesn’t need to cover perfectly—spreading is fine).
5. Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the brownie layer comes out with just a few moist crumbs.
6. Cool completely before slicing for clean layers. Serve and enjoy!

Servings and timing

Serves: 12
Prep time: 20 minutes
Bake time: 30–35 minutes
Cooling time: 20–30 minutes
Total time: approx. 1 hour 15 minutes

Variations

• Add chopped walnuts or pecans to either layer for crunch.
• Use white chocolate chips in the cookie layer for contrast.
• Swirl in peanut butter or caramel between the layers for extra indulgence.
• Add espresso powder to the brownie layer to enhance the chocolate flavor.
• Use boxed mixes for both layers to speed things up.

storage/reheating

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. Refrigerate for up to a week if needed. To reheat, microwave individual squares for 10–15 seconds for a warm, gooey treat. These also freeze well—wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought dough or brownie mix?

Yes! Use your favorite brownie mix for the base and pre-made cookie dough for the top to save time.

How do I keep the cookie layer from overbaking?

Check your brookies at the 30-minute mark. The top should be golden but not too brown, and a toothpick should come out with a few moist crumbs.

Do I need to chill the cookie dough?

No, the dough spreads better when at room temperature, which is ideal for this layered recipe.

Can I double this recipe?

Yes, just use a 9×13-inch pan and adjust baking time to around 40–45 minutes.

Why are my layers blending together?

That’s normal to a degree. They’ll still taste amazing! For cleaner layers, chill the brownie batter for 10 minutes before adding the cookie dough on top.

Can I use salted butter?

Yes, but reduce the added salt in each layer by half.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for both layers. Make sure your cocoa powder and other ingredients are certified gluten-free.

How do I get clean slices?

Cool completely and use a sharp knife wiped clean between cuts. You can also chill the bars before slicing for neater edges.

Can I add other mix-ins?

Absolutely! Try candy pieces, toffee bits, or crushed pretzels for a fun twist.

Are these better warm or cooled?

They’re amazing both ways—warm for a gooey center, cooled for chewy texture and clean layers.

Conclusion

Chocolate Chip Cookie Brownies are the ultimate treat for dessert lovers who can’t decide between two favorites. With a rich brownie base and a golden cookie top, these bars are indulgent, easy to make, and always a hit. Whether for a special occasion or a simple weekend bake, they’re a delicious way to enjoy the best of both worlds in every bite.

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