If you’re craving a decadent dessert that combines the best of two worlds, the Chocolate Chip Cookie Brownie Bars Recipe is absolutely the answer. Imagine the rich, fudgy texture of a classic brownie swirled with delightful, gooey pockets of chocolate chip cookie dough—each bite melts effortlessly in your mouth, creating the ultimate comforting treat. This recipe is not only a showstopper for dessert lovers but also a fun bake to make that guarantees smiles and rave reviews every time you serve it.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic behind the Chocolate Chip Cookie Brownie Bars Recipe lies in a handful of simple, wholesome ingredients. Each item plays a crucial role—from the butter that enriches every bite to the cocoa powder that gives the brownies their deep chocolate flavor. Let’s break down what you’ll need to create this irresistible treat.
- Unsalted butter: Used in both batters, butter adds richness and ensures a tender crumb.
- Granulated sugar: Sweetens the brownies and cookie dough, balancing bitterness and enhancing moisture.
- Brown sugar: Adds chewiness and a hint of molasses flavor to the cookie dough.
- Large eggs: Help bind ingredients and provide structure to the batters.
- Vanilla extract: Infuses warmth and depth of flavor, tying the two elements together beautifully.
- Cocoa powder: Delivers the rich chocolate taste essential to perfect brownies.
- All-purpose flour: The foundation for both batters, it creates the perfect texture.
- Baking soda: Helps the cookie dough rise just enough for a soft, chewy texture.
- Salt: Enhances all the flavors and balances sweetness.
- Chocolate chips: Brings bursts of melty chocolate throughout the cookie dough pockets.
How to Make Chocolate Chip Cookie Brownie Bars Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Baking Dish
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line your baking dish with parchment paper—it makes for an easy removal later and keeps the bars intact when you slice them. Proper prep sets the stage for the rest of your baking adventure.
Step 2: Whip Up the Brownie Batter
In a microwave-safe bowl, gently melt the unsalted butter. The butter should be warm and smooth, not hot. Stir in the granulated sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract until everything blends into a glossy mix. Sift in the cocoa powder, flour, and salt to avoid lumps, then fold gently until you have a silky brownie batter ready to go.
Step 3: Create the Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough
In a separate bowl, cream together the softened butter with granulated and brown sugars. This step is where the cookie dough begins to take shape, becoming light and fluffy as air is incorporated. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract before gradually mixing in flour, baking soda, and salt. Finish by folding in those classic chocolate chips for pockets of melty joy.
Step 4: Combine and Layer Batters
Pour your rich brownie batter evenly into the lined dish. Next, scoop spoonfuls of chocolate chip cookie dough over the top. Don’t just plop them down—gently press and swirl the dough into the brownie batter to create a beautiful marbled effect that promises each bite is perfectly balanced.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Pop your layering masterpiece into the oven and bake for 30-35 minutes. You’ll want the edges set and the center still soft and slightly gooey. This texture contrast is key to the magic of this Chocolate Chip Cookie Brownie Bars Recipe, making every square irresistibly moist and chewy.
Step 6: Cool and Slice
After baking, patience is your friend. Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before slicing. This ensures clean cuts and lets the flavors settle for an even better taste experience when you finally dive in.
How to Serve Chocolate Chip Cookie Brownie Bars Recipe
Garnishes
A simple dusting of powdered sugar can add a touch of elegance and a hint of sweetness that elevates these bars instantly. If you’re feeling indulgent, a drizzle of warm caramel or a handful of toasted nuts sprinkled on top can amp up the texture and flavor.
Side Dishes
These bars pair wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream to balance the rich chocolatey flavors. For a cozy touch, serve with a hot cup of coffee, milk, or even a bold black tea.
Creative Ways to Present
Cut into bite-sized squares and serve on a festive platter for parties, or layer them between wax paper in a jar as a thoughtful homemade gift. You can even sandwich a scoop of ice cream between two bars for an epic dessert sandwich that will wow your friends and family.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This keeps the texture just right: a perfect balance of chewy brownie and soft cookie dough layers.
Freezing
You can freeze these bars for up to 2 months. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator for the best texture.
Reheating
Warm leftover bars briefly in the microwave for 15-20 seconds to bring back that freshly baked softness and melty chocolate goodness. If you like, pop them in a warm oven at 300°F for 5-7 minutes for crispier edges.
FAQs
Can I use store-bought cookie dough instead of making my own?
Absolutely! Using store-bought cookie dough can save time and still tasty results. Just drop spoonfuls of it over the brownie batter exactly as you would with homemade dough for quick convenience.
What type of chocolate chips works best?
Semisweet chocolate chips strike the perfect balance in this recipe, providing sufficient sweetness and richness without overpowering the brownie base. But feel free to experiment with milk chocolate or even chunks for a different twist.
Can I double this recipe?
You can definitely double the ingredients and use a larger baking pan. Just keep an eye on the baking time since a larger pan may require a little extra time in the oven to cook through evenly.
Are these bars gluten-free?
This particular recipe uses all-purpose flour, so it’s not gluten-free. However, you could try substituting with a gluten-free flour blend, though texture and rise might vary slightly.
How do I know when the bars are perfectly baked?
Look for set edges with a slightly soft and gooey center. A toothpick inserted into the middle will come out with a few moist crumbs but not raw batter. This balance makes the best fudgy and chewy texture.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly special about the Chocolate Chip Cookie Brownie Bars Recipe; it manages to combine two classic desserts into one unforgettable bite. Whether you’re baking for a family gathering, a casual get-together, or simply treating yourself, these bars bring pure joy with every forkful. Give this recipe a try—you’ll soon find it’s one of those sweet favorites that everyone asks for again and again.
Print
Chocolate Chip Cookie Brownie Bars Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Delight in the best of both worlds with these Chocolate Chip Cookie Brownies, a scrumptious treat featuring a rich, fudgy brownie base topped with soft, gooey chocolate chip cookie dough. Baked to perfection, this marbled dessert offers the perfect balance of chocolatey depth and sweet, buttery cookie goodness in every bite.
Ingredients
Brownie Batter
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/3 cup cocoa powder
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup chocolate chips
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a baking dish by lining it with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy removal.
- Melt Butter for Brownie Batter: In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the 1/2 cup of unsalted butter for the brownie batter. Stir in 1 cup granulated sugar, 2 large eggs, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Mix Dry Ingredients for Brownie: Sift together 1/3 cup cocoa powder, 1/2 cup all-purpose flour, and 1/4 teaspoon salt. Gradually fold these dry ingredients into the wet brownie mixture until smooth and free of lumps.
- Cream Butter and Sugars for Cookie Dough: In a separate bowl, cream together 1/2 cup softened unsalted butter, 1/2 cup granulated sugar, and 1/2 cup packed brown sugar until light and fluffy, which gives the cookie dough a soft texture.
- Add Egg and Vanilla to Cookie Dough: Beat in 1 large egg and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract into the creamed mixture until fully incorporated and fluffy.
- Mix Dry Ingredients for Cookie Dough: Gradually add 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour, 1/2 teaspoon baking soda, and 1/2 teaspoon salt. Stir gently until a soft cookie dough forms.
- Fold in Chocolate Chips: Gently fold 1 cup of chocolate chips into the cookie dough, distributing them evenly throughout.
- Spread Brownie Batter: Pour the prepared brownie batter into the lined baking dish and spread it evenly to form a smooth base layer.
- Dollop Cookie Dough: Spoon dollops of the chocolate chip cookie dough over the brownie batter, distributing them evenly.
- Create Marble Effect: Gently press and swirl the cookie dough into the brownie batter for a marbled, swirled effect that combines both textures beautifully.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the edges are firm and set, while the center remains slightly gooey for a perfect fudgy texture.
- Cool and Serve: Remove from the oven and let the brookies cool completely in the baking dish. Once cooled, cut into squares or your preferred shapes and enjoy the delicious fusion dessert.
Notes
- Ensure the butter for the chocolate chip cookie dough is softened but not melted for the best texture.
- Use parchment paper to line the baking dish for easy removal and cleanup.
- Do not overbake to maintain a gooey center; check at 30 minutes to avoid drying out.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.
- For an extra chocolaty twist, sprinkle some additional chocolate chips on top before baking.
