Salted Brownie Cookies
Salted Brownie Cookies are the ultimate fusion of two favorite desserts! These cookies combine the rich, fudgy texture of brownies with a delightful cookie form. Perfect for parties, family gatherings, or just a sweet treat at home, they feature a shiny, crackly top and are finished off with a sprinkle of sea salt. Every bite delivers an intense chocolate flavor that will enchant any chocolate lover.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Decadent Flavor: The combination of semi-sweet chocolate chips and cocoa powder creates an irresistible chocolate experience.
- Easy to Make: With simple steps and common ingredients, these cookies can be whipped up quickly for any occasion.
- Versatile Treat: Enjoy them as a dessert or snack; they also make great gifts for friends and family.
- Perfect Texture: Each cookie has a chewy center and a slightly crispy edge, providing the perfect contrast in texture.
- Customizable: Feel free to add nuts or adjust the amount of sea salt to match your taste preferences.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the recipe, gather your tools to ensure a smooth baking experience. Having everything ready will make the process more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Stand mixer or hand mixer
- Medium mixing bowl
- Small saucepan
- Cookie scoop or two spoons
- Baking sheets
- Parchment paper or silicone mats
Importance of Each Tool
- Stand Mixer or Hand Mixer: These tools help incorporate air into the batter, making your cookies light and fluffy.
- Medium Mixing Bowl: A sturdy bowl is essential for mixing ingredients without spills.
- Cookie Scoop: This tool ensures even-sized cookies that bake uniformly.
Ingredients
To create these delightful Salted Brownie Cookies, gather the following ingredients:
Dry Ingredients
- 1 cup All-Purpose Flour
- 1 tsp Baking Powder
- 1/8 tsp Salt
- 1/4 cup Unsweetened Cocoa Powder
Wet Ingredients
- 2 Large Eggs (room temperature)
- 1 Large Egg Yolk (room temperature)
- 1 cup Granulated Sugar
- 1 tbsp Vegetable Oil
- 1 tsp Vanilla Extract
- 6 tbsp Unsalted Butter
Chocolate Chips & Garnish
- 1 cup Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips (plus some for topping cookies)
- 1 tsp Espresso Powder (optional)
- Sea Salt Flakes (for topping cookies)
How to Make Salted Brownie Cookies
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Adjust the oven rack to the second level mark (just above center). Preheat your oven to 350ºF. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats and set them aside.
Step 2: Whisk Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Set this mixture aside while you prepare the wet ingredients.
Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients
Using a stand mixer or hand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment:
1. Beat together the eggs, egg yolk, granulated sugar, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract on medium-high speed.
2. Continue mixing until fully combined and frothy.
Step 4: Melt Chocolate Mixture
In a small saucepan over medium heat:
1. Combine semi-sweet chocolate chips and unsalted butter.
2. Stir until melted and smooth.
3. Remove from heat and whisk in unsweetened cocoa powder (and espresso powder if using).
Step 5: Combine Mixtures
Carefully pour the melted chocolate mixture into the wet ingredients. Mix until just combined.
Step 6: Add Dry Ingredients
Add in the whisked dry ingredients:
1. Mix on low speed until just combined.
2. Alternatively, fold in dry ingredients using a spatula until incorporated. The batter will be thinner but still scoopable.
Step 7: Scoop Cookie Dough
Using a 1½ tablespoon-size cookie scoop or two spoons:
1. Scoop out cookie dough onto prepared baking sheets.
2. Leave about 1½ inches of space between each cookie.
Step 8: Bake Cookies
Sprinkle sea salt flakes over each cookie’s top. Bake at 350ºF for 8–10 minutes or until tops have a shiny, crackly finish.
Step 9: Add Extra Chocolate Chips
Remove from oven and optionally top with additional chocolate chips while still warm. To shape them perfectly round:
Use a round cookie cutter immediately after removing from oven while cookies are soft.
Step 10: Cool Cookies
Let cookies cool on baking sheets for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack to cool almost completely—though they’re divine when still warm!
Step 11: Store Properly
Store cookies in a sealed food container at room temperature for up to 2 days for optimal freshness.
How to Serve Salted Brownie Cookies
Salted Brownie Cookies are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply indulging at home, these cookies can complement many occasions.
With Milk
- Classic Pairing: Serve these cookies with a glass of cold milk for a nostalgic experience.
- Chocolate Milk: Enhance the chocolate flavor by pairing with rich chocolate milk.
With Ice Cream
- A La Mode: Top a warm brownie cookie with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert.
- Sundae Style: Create a mini sundae by adding chocolate sauce and nuts on top of the ice cream.
As Party Favors
- Gift Boxes: Package cookies in decorative boxes as sweet party favors.
- Personalized Bags: Use clear bags tied with ribbons for a personal touch at events.
With Coffee
- Afternoon Pick-Me-Up: Enjoy these cookies alongside your favorite cup of coffee for an afternoon treat.
- Espresso Match: Pair the cookies with an espresso for a rich flavor combination.
In Desserts
- Layered Parfaits: Crumble cookies into layers of yogurt or pudding for a delightful parfait.
- Cookie Trifle: Alternate layers of brownie cookies, whipped cream, and berries for an impressive dessert.
How to Perfect Salted Brownie Cookies
To ensure your Salted Brownie Cookies turn out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.
- Ingredients Matter: Use high-quality chocolate chips and cocoa powder for rich flavor.
- Temperature Check: Make sure eggs are at room temperature for better mixing and texture.
- Mixing Technique: Avoid overmixing your batter; combine until just blended to keep them fudgy.
- Scoop Size: Use a consistent cookie scoop to ensure even baking and uniform size.
- Baking Time Awareness: Keep an eye on the cookies in the oven; they should have shiny tops but not be overbaked.
- Cooling Tips: Let the cookies cool on the sheet briefly before transferring them to avoid breakage.
Best Side Dishes for Salted Brownie Cookies
Salted Brownie Cookies can be paired with various delightful sides that enhance their flavor. Here are some great options to consider:
- Vanilla Ice Cream – Classic creamy ice cream pairs beautifully with the rich flavors of brownie cookies.
- Fresh Berries – A refreshing side of strawberries or raspberries adds a tart balance to the sweetness.
- Whipped Cream – Light and fluffy whipped cream provides an airy contrast to dense cookies.
- Chocolate Sauce – Drizzle warm chocolate sauce over the cookies for extra decadence.
- Peanut Butter Spread – A dollop of peanut butter creates a delicious salty-sweet combo.
- Coffee or Espresso – A strong cup of coffee complements the rich chocolate flavors perfectly.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Salted Brownie Cookies can be a joy, but there are common pitfalls to watch for. Here are some mistakes to avoid:
- Not using room temperature eggs: Cold eggs can affect how well the ingredients combine. Always let your eggs reach room temperature before mixing.
- Overmixing the batter: This can lead to tough cookies instead of soft and fudgy ones. Mix just until the dry ingredients are incorporated.
- Skipping the sea salt topping: The salt enhances the chocolate flavor and adds contrast. Don’t skip this step for the best results!
- Not allowing cookies to cool properly: If you move them too soon, they may break apart. Let them sit on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring.
- Using expired baking powder: Freshness matters in baking! Always check the expiration date for optimal rising.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store cookies in an airtight container.
- They will stay fresh for up to 2 days in the fridge.
Freezing Salted Brownie Cookies
- Freeze cookies individually wrapped in plastic wrap.
- Place them in a freezer-safe container or bag; they’ll last for up to 3 months.
Reheating Salted Brownie Cookies
- Oven: Preheat to 350ºF and warm cookies for about 5 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat one cookie for 10-15 seconds until warm.
- Stovetop: Place a cookie in a skillet over low heat for about a minute.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions about making Salted Brownie Cookies.
Can I substitute ingredients in Salted Brownie Cookies?
Yes! You can use different types of sugar or gluten-free flour as alternatives while maintaining similar textures.
How do I make my Salted Brownie Cookies extra fudgy?
To achieve extra fudginess, add an additional egg yolk or reduce the flour slightly.
Can I make these cookies without espresso powder?
Absolutely! The espresso powder is optional and enhances the chocolate flavor but is not necessary.
How should I serve Salted Brownie Cookies?
These cookies are delicious served alone or with a scoop of ice cream for an indulgent dessert!
Final Thoughts
These Salted Brownie Cookies combine rich chocolate flavors with a delightful salty finish, making them an irresistible treat. You can customize them by adding nuts or using different types of chocolate chips. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy these warm, gooey delights straight from your oven!
Salted Brownie Cookies
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 24 cookies 1x
Description
Salted Brownie Cookies are a decadent treat that perfectly marries the rich, fudgy texture of brownies with the delightful form of cookies. These indulgent desserts feature a shiny, crackly top and a sprinkle of sea salt that elevates every bite into a chocolate lover’s dream. Ideal for any occasion—be it parties, family gatherings, or simply enjoying at home—these cookies are quick to make and customizable to suit your taste. With their chewy centers and slightly crispy edges, these Salted Brownie Cookies promise an unforgettable dessert experience.
Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/8 tsp salt
- 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 2 large eggs (room temperature)
- 1 large egg yolk (room temperature)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 6 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips (plus more for topping)
- Sea salt flakes for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350ºF and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt; set aside.
- In a stand mixer, beat eggs, egg yolk, sugar, oil, and vanilla on medium-high speed until frothy.
- Melt chocolate chips and butter in a saucepan over medium heat; stir until smooth. Remove from heat and whisk in cocoa powder.
- Combine melted chocolate with wet ingredients until just mixed.
- Gradually add dry ingredients; mix until incorporated but do not overmix.
- Scoop dough onto prepared sheets; sprinkle with sea salt flakes.
- Bake for 8–10 minutes until tops are shiny and crackly.
- Cool on sheets for 5 minutes before transferring to a rack.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie (30g)
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
