If you have a serious sweet tooth and love a fun surprise in every bite, this Cookie-Stuffed Brownies Recipe is going to rock your world. Imagine fudgy, rich brownies with pockets of soft, sweet cookie dough nestled right in the middle, creating a sensational combo of textures and flavors that feels like a hug wrapped in chocolate. This recipe effortlessly brings two classic treats together, turning an ordinary dessert into an extraordinary indulgence you’ll want to make again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting started with the Cookie-Stuffed Brownies Recipe requires a handful of everyday ingredients that each play a starring role in delivering perfect texture and flavor. The balance of fudgy brownie batter and soft cookie dough relies on these simple essentials, so be sure to have them ready and measured for smooth sailing in the kitchen.
- 1 box brownie mix (plus required ingredients): A quick and dependable way to get luscious, gooey brownies without fuss.
- 1 cup all-purpose flour: Provides structure to the cookie dough while keeping it tender.
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda: Helps the cookie dough rise gently, giving it a light texture.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the sweet flavors and balances richness.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened: Adds creaminess and moisture to the cookie dough.
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar: Brings sweetness and contributes to the cookie’s chewiness.
- 1/4 cup packed brown sugar: Infuses a subtle caramel note and softens the cookie texture.
- 1 large egg: Binds the cookie dough ingredients perfectly.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Brings warmth and depth to the cookie flavor.
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips or chunks (optional): Adds extra chocolate goodness and delightful pockets of melty richness.
How to Make Cookie-Stuffed Brownies Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Pan
Start by heating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang on the sides so you can lift your brownies out easily once they’re baked. This small step will save you from a messy cleanup and make cutting neat squares a breeze.
Step 2: Prepare the Brownie Batter
Follow the instructions on your brownie mix box, typically adding eggs, oil, and water. Mix everything until your batter is smooth and luscious. This brownie batter forms the rich base and top layers that cradle our hidden cookie dough treasures.
Step 3: Make the Cookie Dough
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. In another large bowl, cream together the softened butter with granulated and brown sugars until light and fluffy — this step makes the cookie dough tender and full of flavor. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until combined. Slowly fold the dry ingredients into the wet until just mixed. If you like, stir in chocolate chips or chunks for added chocolate bursts within your cookies.
Step 4: Assemble Your Cookie-Stuffed Brownies Recipe
Pour half of your prepared brownie batter into the parchment-lined pan, spreading it into an even layer. Next, scoop spoonfuls of cookie dough, flatten them slightly into discs, and arrange them evenly over the brownie batter. Finally, gently pour the remaining brownie batter over the cookie discs, ensuring they are fully covered. This layering guarantees each bite surprises you with both fudgy brownie and soft cookie dough.
Step 5: Bake and Cool
Bake the creation for around 45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. Don’t worry if some cookie dough sticks to it — that’s exactly what you want! Once baked, let the pan cool completely on a wire rack, then use the parchment edges to lift the whole block out for easy slicing.
How to Serve Cookie-Stuffed Brownies Recipe
Garnishes
To make your Cookie-Stuffed Brownies even more irresistible, try sprinkling them with flaky sea salt right after baking for a sweet-salty contrast, or dust them lightly with powdered sugar for an elegant touch. A drizzle of warm caramel or a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side turns these brownies into a dessert to swoon over.
Side Dishes
Pair these rich brownies with fresh berries or a simple fruit salad to balance the indulgence with a burst of freshness. A dollop of whipped cream or a cup of strong coffee complements the deep chocolate and cookie flavors perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
Cut your Cookie-Stuffed Brownies into small bite-sized squares and serve them on a dessert platter for parties, letting guests enjoy the surprise center in every bite. Alternatively, layer chunks of these brownies in a clear glass trifle bowl along with whipped cream and berries for an eye-catching, layered dessert that looks as good as it tastes.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once completely cooled, store your brownies in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay fresh and chewy for up to four days, making them perfect for preparing in advance or enjoying over several days.
Freezing
Cookie-Stuffed Brownies freeze beautifully. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then foil before freezing. They’ll keep well for up to three months. When you’re ready, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator for best texture.
Reheating
To enjoy warm brownies that taste almost freshly baked, pop them in a microwave for 15-20 seconds or reheat gently in a low oven (around 300°F) for 5-7 minutes. This makes the cookie-stuffed center ooze with irresistible melty goodness.
FAQs
Can I use homemade brownie batter instead of a box mix?
Absolutely! Feel free to use your favorite homemade brownie recipe instead of a boxed mix. The Cookie-Stuffed Brownies Recipe works wonderfully with both approaches, allowing you to customize the flavor and richness to your liking.
What if I want to make this gluten-free?
You can substitute a gluten-free flour blend for the all-purpose flour in the cookie dough, and choose a gluten-free brownie mix for the brownie base. Just ensure the brands you pick suit your dietary needs for best results.
Can I use different types of cookies instead of making cookie dough?
You could try embedding small store-bought cookies into the brownie layers, but fresh cookie dough melts and blends so much better, giving you that perfect balance of textures. Store-bought cookies can sometimes become too hard or dry after baking inside the brownie.
Is it necessary to use parchment paper?
While you can grease the pan instead, parchment paper makes it much easier to lift out the entire batch without sticking or breaking. It’s a simple step that saves time and helps produce clean, neat brownie squares.
How do I know when the Cookie-Stuffed Brownies are done baking?
Look for a toothpick inserted into the center to come out with a few moist crumbs still attached; this means the brownies will be fudgy and soft. Overbaking can dry out both the brownies and cookie dough, so keep an eye on the timer.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking to impress friends, satisfy cravings, or simply treat yourself, this Cookie-Stuffed Brownies Recipe is a guaranteed winner. The way brownie and cookie dough come together creates magical layers of flavor and texture that feel both nostalgic and exciting at once. Don’t hesitate to bake a batch soon—you’ll be so glad you did!
Print
Cookie-Stuffed Brownies Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 24 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Cookie-Stuffed Brownies combine the fudgy richness of classic brownies with soft, chewy cookie dough hidden inside for a double treat. Creamy chocolate chips add bursts of gooey sweetness, making this dessert irresistible for any occasion.
Ingredients
Brownie Batter
- 1 box brownie mix (plus ingredients required on the box, typically eggs, oil, and water)
Cookie Dough
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips or chunks (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang on the sides to easily lift the brownies out after baking.
- Prepare the Brownie Batter: Follow the instructions on the brownie mix box, adding the required ingredients like eggs, oil, and water. Stir the mixture until smooth and set aside.
- Prepare the Dry Cookie Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt to combine evenly. Set this aside for now.
- Cream the Wet Cookie Ingredients: In a separate large bowl, use a hand mixer or whisk to cream the softened butter with granulated sugar and brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This process incorporates air, giving the dough a nice texture.
- Add Egg and Vanilla: Beat in the large egg and vanilla extract into the creamed butter and sugar mixture until well combined.
- Combine Dry and Wet Cookie Ingredients: Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined to avoid overworking the dough. Then fold in the chocolate chips or chunks if you’re using them.
- Assemble the Brownies: Pour half of the prepared brownie batter into the parchment-lined baking pan, spreading it evenly to form a smooth base layer.
- Add Cookie Dough Layer: Scoop spoonfuls of the cookie dough, flatten them slightly into discs, and evenly space them over the brownie batter in the pan.
- Top with Remaining Brownie Batter: Pour the remaining brownie batter over the cookie dough discs. Spread gently and evenly until the dough is completely covered.
- Bake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for about 45 minutes. Check doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center—some moist crumbs are perfect, and a few cookie dough bits on the toothpick are acceptable.
- Cool: Remove the pan from the oven and let the brownies cool completely on a wire rack. Cooling is important for clean slicing and for the layers to set properly.
- Serve: Once cooled, lift the brownies out of the pan using the parchment paper overhang and cut into 24 squares. Enjoy your decadent cookie-stuffed brownies!
Notes
- Using parchment paper with overhang makes removing the brownies easier and helps with clean cutting.
- Do not overmix the cookie dough once the flour is added to keep the dough tender and soft.
- Chocolate chips in the cookie dough are optional but add a delicious texture contrast.
- Check brownies a few minutes before 45 minutes if your oven runs hot to prevent overbaking.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.
