Cookie Dough Brownies

Cookie Dough Brownies are the ultimate dessert mashup—combining dense, fudgy brownies with a layer of safe-to-eat chocolate chip cookie dough. This indulgent treat is a dream come true for dessert lovers, offering the best of both worlds in each decadent bite. Perfect for parties, holidays, or whenever you’re craving something extra sweet and satisfying.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Two Desserts in One: Rich brownies + creamy cookie dough = total dessert bliss.
• Safe and Egg-Free: The cookie dough is made without eggs and uses heat-treated flour, making it completely safe to eat raw.
• Great Texture Contrast: The fudgy base and soft dough topping offer an irresistible combo of textures.
• Perfect for Special Occasions: These bars are always a hit at potlucks, bake sales, or celebrations.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Can be made ahead and stored chilled or frozen.

Ingredients

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

For the Brownie Base

• ¾ cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1½ cups granulated sugar
• 3 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• ¾ cup all-purpose flour
• ½ teaspoon salt

For the Cookie Dough Layer

• 1 cup all-purpose flour (heat-treated—see instructions)
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• ½ cup brown sugar
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 tablespoons milk
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 cup mini chocolate chips

Optional Chocolate Topping

• ½ cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
• 1 tablespoon butter or heavy cream

Directions

this recipe

1. Prepare the Brownie Layer
   • Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch pan with parchment paper.
   • In a bowl, whisk together melted butter and sugar until smooth. Add eggs and vanilla, mixing well.
   • Sift in cocoa powder, flour, and salt. Stir until just combined.
   • Pour batter into the pan and bake for 30–35 minutes. Let cool completely.
2. Heat-Treat the Flour for Cookie Dough
   • Microwave the flour in a bowl for 1 minute or until it reaches 165°F to kill any bacteria. Let it cool.
3. Make the Cookie Dough Layer
   • In a bowl, cream together softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar.
   • Mix in vanilla, milk, and salt.
   • Add cooled, heat-treated flour and mix until smooth. Stir in mini chocolate chips.
   • Spread evenly over the cooled brownie layer.
4. Optional Chocolate Topping
   • Melt chocolate chips and butter (or cream) in the microwave in 20-second intervals until smooth.
   • Spread over cookie dough layer and chill to set.
5. Chill and Serve
   • Refrigerate the layered brownies for at least 1 hour before slicing. Cut into squares and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 16 bars
• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Bake Time: 30–35 minutes
• Chill Time: 1 hour
• Total Time: About 2 hours

Variations

• Peanut Butter Cookie Dough: Use peanut butter chips and a spoonful of peanut butter in the cookie dough.
• Mint Chocolate: Add peppermint extract to the dough and use Andes mint chips.
• Oreo Twist: Mix crushed Oreos into the cookie dough for a cookies-and-cream flavor.
• Salted Caramel: Drizzle caramel sauce between layers or over the top.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free all-purpose flour in both layers.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Keep refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Freezing: Freeze sliced brownies in a single layer and store in freezer bags for up to 2 months.
• Reheating: Best enjoyed cold or at room temperature. Brief microwaving may melt the cookie dough.

FAQs

Can I use boxed brownie mix?

Yes! Prepare the mix as directed and follow the rest of the recipe for the cookie dough layer.

Is the cookie dough safe to eat?

Yes. It’s egg-free and uses heat-treated flour, making it safe to eat without baking.

How do I heat-treat flour?

Microwave the flour for about 1 minute or until it reaches 165°F, stirring halfway through.

Can I use regular-sized chocolate chips?

Mini chips work best for smoother slicing, but regular chips are fine too.

How long do these brownies last?

They stay fresh for up to 5 days in the fridge and up to 2 months in the freezer.

What’s the best way to cut these brownies?

Chill well and use a sharp knife wiped clean between cuts for neat squares.

Do I need to chill them before serving?

Yes, chilling helps set the layers for cleaner slices and better texture.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, use plant-based butter, dairy-free chocolate, and almond or oat milk.

Can I double the recipe?

Definitely. Use a 9×13-inch pan and adjust the baking time accordingly.

Are these suitable for kids?

Absolutely—just ensure the flour is properly heat-treated for safety.

Conclusion

Cookie Dough Brownies are the ultimate treat for dessert lovers, offering a rich, fudgy brownie base topped with creamy, chocolate chip-studded cookie dough. Safe to eat, easy to make, and totally delicious, they’re guaranteed to impress at any gathering—or whenever you need a sweet pick-me-up.

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