Chocolate Chip Cookie Brownies Recipe: A Perfect Sweet Duo

What happens when you take the soft, chewy texture of chocolate chip cookies and combine it with the rich, fudgy goodness of brownies? You get the ultimate dessert mash-up: Chocolate Chip Cookie Brownies. These decadent treats combine the best of both worlds, giving you the perfect balance of cookie dough and brownie, all in one delicious bite.

If you love both cookies and brownies (and let’s face it, who doesn’t?), this recipe is for you. The layers of chocolate chip cookie dough and fudgy brownie batter bake together to create an irresistible dessert that’s sure to impress everyone at the table. Whether you’re making them for a special occasion or just because, these chocolate chip cookie brownies will satisfy your sweet tooth and leave you craving more.

1. Why This Recipe Works

These Chocolate Chip Cookie Brownies are the ultimate hybrid dessert for a reason. Here’s why this combo works so well:

Two Desserts in One

Instead of having to choose between cookies or brownies, you get both! The chewy, buttery cookie dough on top pairs perfectly with the rich, fudgy brownie base.

The Best of Both Textures

The cookie dough layer bakes up soft and chewy, while the brownie layer is dense, fudgy, and full of chocolatey goodness. Together, they create the perfect textural contrast in every bite.

Simple and Easy to Make

No need for fancy techniques or special ingredients. This recipe uses basic pantry staples and comes together quickly, making it perfect for both beginners and experienced bakers.

A Crowd-Pleaser

These treats are a guaranteed hit at any gathering—whether it’s a birthday party, potluck, or just a casual dessert after dinner. They’re versatile, loved by all ages, and perfect for sharing.

2. Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe is made with simple ingredients that you likely already have in your kitchen. Here’s what you’ll need:

1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
3/4 cup brown sugar, packed
1/4 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 1/2 cups semisweet chocolate chips

For the Brownie Layer:

1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
1 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1/3 cup cocoa powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 cup semisweet chocolate chips (optional, for extra fudginess)

This recipe combines two beloved desserts in one easy-to-follow process. Here’s how to make them:

Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Pan

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal of the brownies after baking.

In a large bowl, cream together the butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. You can use a hand mixer or stand mixer for this step.
Beat in the eggs, one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined.
Fold in the chocolate chips.
Spread the cookie dough evenly in the bottom of the prepared baking pan.

Step 3: Make the Brownie Layer

In another bowl, combine the melted butter and sugar. Whisk until smooth.
Beat in the eggs and vanilla extract.
In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, salt, and baking powder.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined.
Fold in the chocolate chips (if using).
Pour the brownie batter evenly over the chocolate chip cookie dough in the pan. Use a spatula to smooth it out.

Step 4: Bake

Bake the layered dessert in the preheated oven for 30–35 minutes. Start checking around 30 minutes by inserting a toothpick into the center of the brownies. It should come out with a few moist crumbs, but not wet batter. The cookie layer should be golden brown, and the brownie layer should be firm to the touch.

Step 5: Cool and Serve

Allow the Chocolate Chip Cookie Brownies to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cool, slice them into squares and enjoy!

4. Variations and Customizations

While this recipe is delicious as is, there are plenty of ways to customize it and add your own twist:

Add Nuts

For extra crunch, fold in chopped walnuts, pecans, or almonds into the brownie or cookie dough layer. Nuts add a nice contrast to the soft, gooey texture.

Swap the Chocolate Chips

If you’re feeling adventurous, you can swap the semisweet chocolate chips with milk chocolate, white chocolate, or even peanut butter chips for a different flavor.

Add Swirls

For a more sophisticated presentation, create a swirl effect by slightly swirling the cookie dough and brownie batter together with a knife before baking. This will give you a marbled appearance.

Make Them Vegan

To make these bars vegan, swap the eggs for a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 3 tablespoons water for each egg) and use a dairy-free butter and vegan chocolate chips. They’ll still be just as delicious!

Add a Caramel Layer

For an indulgent treat, drizzle caramel sauce over the brownie layer before baking, or layer caramel bits in between the cookie dough and brownie batter. This will add a rich, buttery sweetness.

5. Storage and Freezing Tips

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Chocolate Chip Cookie Brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
You can also refrigerate them to keep them fresh for a little longer (about 7 days), but they may lose a little of their chewiness.

Freezing

Freeze any leftover brownies by wrapping them individually in plastic wrap, then storing them in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll last in the freezer for up to 3 months.
To thaw, let them sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes, or microwave for a few seconds for that freshly-baked feel.

Double the sweetness: You get both the chewy goodness of chocolate chip cookies and the rich, fudgy texture of brownies.
Perfect for any occasion: Whether you’re hosting a party, a family gathering, or just craving something sweet, these brownies are the perfect dessert.
Simple to make: With basic pantry ingredients, this recipe is easy to whip up any time.
Great for sharing: These brownies are large and easy to slice into squares, making them perfect for sharing with friends and family.

FAQs

1. Can I use different types of chocolate chips?

Yes! You can use milk chocolate, dark chocolate, or white chocolate chips based on your personal preference. You can also mix and match for a more complex flavor.

2. Can I make these brownies ahead of time?

Yes! You can make them a day ahead, store them in an airtight container, and they’ll taste just as good the next day. They’re great for prepping in advance.

3. Can I freeze these brownies?

Yes! You can freeze these brownies for up to 3 months. Just make sure they are wrapped tightly and stored in a freezer-safe container or bag.

4. Can I use a different pan size?

This recipe is best suited for a 9×13-inch pan for the right thickness. If you use a smaller pan, the brownies may take longer to bake and may be thicker. If using a larger pan, they’ll bake faster and be thinner.

5. How do I know when they’re done baking?

Start checking at 30 minutes by inserting a toothpick in the center. If it comes out with a few moist crumbs, they’re done. If there’s wet batter, bake for a few more minutes.

6. Can I add a frosting to these brownies?

Yes! You can top them with a rich chocolate ganache, a cream cheese frosting, or even a drizzle of caramel sauce for extra indulgence.

7. What’s the best way to cut brownies?

Let the brownies cool completely before cutting them. Use a sharp knife and wipe it clean between cuts for clean, neat edges.

This Chocolate Chip Cookie Brownie recipe is a sweet duo that blends the best of two beloved treats. It’s easy to make, perfect for any occasion, and guarantees a deliciously indulgent dessert that will have everyone asking for more! Enjoy!