Salted Brownie Cookies
Salted Brownie Cookies are the perfect blend of two beloved desserts, creating a delightful experience for chocolate lovers everywhere! These cookies feature a shiny, crackly top and are generously sprinkled with sea salt flakes, making them an irresistible treat for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a party, celebrating a special event, or simply indulging yourself, these decadent fudgy cookies will satisfy your sweet tooth like no other.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Decadent Flavor: The combination of semi-sweet chocolate and cocoa powder creates an intensely rich chocolate flavor that is simply irresistible.
- Easy to Make: This recipe is straightforward and requires no special skills. You’ll have fresh cookies in just 25 minutes!
- Versatile Treat: Perfect for parties, potlucks, or cozy nights at home. These cookies are sure to impress friends and family.
- Fudgy Texture: Enjoy the chewy interior paired with a slightly crisp exterior that makes every bite a delight.
- Customizable: You can easily add nuts or different types of chocolate chips to personalize your cookies.
Tools and Preparation
Before you start baking these delicious Salted Brownie Cookies, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Stand mixer or hand mixer
- Medium mixing bowl
- Small saucepan
- Baking sheets
- Parchment paper or silicone mats
- Cookie scoop or spoons
- Cooling rack
Importance of Each Tool
- Stand mixer or hand mixer: These are essential for achieving the right consistency when mixing wet ingredients.
- Baking sheets: A good baking sheet ensures even cooking without sticking, resulting in perfectly baked cookies.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 1 cup All-Purpose Flour
- 1 tsp Baking Powder
- 1/8 tsp Salt
- 1/4 cup Unsweetened Cocoa Powder
- 1 tsp Espresso Powder (optional)
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
Mix-Ins
- 1 cup Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips (plus some for topping cookies)
- Sea Salt Flakes (for topping cookies, optional garnish)
How to Make Salted Brownie Cookies
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Adjust the oven rack to the 2nd level mark (just above center) and preheat your oven to 350ºF. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats. Set them aside.
Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt until well combined. Set this mixture aside for later use.
Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients
Using a stand mixer or hand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment:
1. Beat the eggs and egg yolk along with granulated sugar, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract on medium-high speed until fully combined and frothy.
Step 4: Melt Chocolate Mixture
In a small saucepan:
1. Heat the semi-sweet chocolate chips and unsalted butter over medium heat.
2. Stir until fully melted and smooth.
3. Remove from heat and whisk in the unsweetened cocoa powder and espresso powder until smooth.
Step 5: Combine Mixtures
Carefully pour the melted chocolate mixture into the wet ingredients and mix until just combined.
Step 6: Add Dry Ingredients
Add in your whisked dry ingredients:
1. Mix on low speed until just combined. Alternatively, fold in using a spatula.
2. The batter will be thinner but still scoopable.
Step 7: Scoop Dough onto Baking Sheets
Using a cookie scoop or two spoons:
1. Scoop tablespoon-size amounts of 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:
1. Bake at 350ºF for 8–10 minutes or until their tops appear shiny and crackly.
Step 9: Add Extra Chocolate Chips (Optional)
Once out of the oven:
1. Top each cookie with additional chocolate chips if desired.
2. For perfectly round shapes, use a round cookie cutter immediately while they are still soft.
Step 10: Cool Cookies
Let them cool on baking sheets for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack using a spatula.
Step 11: Store Properly
Store your 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 versatile treats that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re serving them at a party, as a dessert after dinner, or just for a cozy night in, there are many delightful options.
With Ice Cream
- Vanilla Ice Cream: The classic combination of warm cookies and cold vanilla ice cream creates a heavenly dessert experience.
- Mint Chocolate Chip: For a refreshing twist, pair these cookies with mint chocolate chip ice cream to enhance the chocolate flavor.
As a Dessert Platter
- Cookie Assortment: Create a dessert platter by including Salted Brownie Cookies alongside other cookies like snickerdoodles or oatmeal raisin for variety.
- Chocolate Dipping Station: Serve the cookies with melted chocolate or caramel for dipping to elevate their indulgence.
With Coffee or Tea
- Espresso: Enjoy these cookies with a shot of espresso for a rich coffee pairing that complements the chocolate.
- Herbal Tea: Pair with a soothing herbal tea like chamomile to balance the sweetness of the cookies.
For Gifting
- In Gift Baskets: Package Salted Brownie Cookies in decorative tins or baskets along with other homemade treats as thoughtful gifts.
- Party Favors: Wrap individual cookies in cellophane bags tied with ribbons as delightful party favors.
How to Perfect Salted Brownie Cookies
Creating perfectly salted brownie cookies is all about mastering the technique. Here are some tips to enhance your baking skills:
- Use Room Temperature Ingredients: This helps all components blend smoothly, resulting in a better texture.
- Don’t Overmix the Batter: Mix just until combined to ensure your cookies remain fudgy instead of dense.
- Chill the Dough (Optional): For thicker cookies, chill your dough for 30 minutes before scooping; this helps maintain their shape while baking.
- Watch Baking Time Closely: Each oven is different. Check your cookies around the 8-minute mark to avoid overbaking.
- Add Extra Sea Salt Flakes: A sprinkle right before baking enhances the sweet and salty contrast beautifully.
Best Side Dishes for Salted Brownie Cookies
These delicious treats can be paired with various side dishes that complement their rich flavor. Here’s a list of tasty options:
- Fresh Fruit Salad: A light and refreshing fruit salad can provide a perfect contrast to the richness of brownie cookies.
- Chocolate Fondue: Set up a chocolate fondue station where guests can dip fruits and cookies into warm chocolate for an indulgent experience.
- Cheese Board: Include soft cheeses like brie and sharp cheeses like cheddar for a savory contrast alongside your sweet treats.
- Whipped Cream: Lightly sweetened whipped cream can add an airy texture when served alongside these fudgy cookies.
- Nutty Trail Mix: A crunchy trail mix can offer textural variety and balance out the sweetness of the brownie cookies.
- Caramel Sauce: Drizzle warm caramel sauce over each cookie before serving for an extra layer of decadence.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Salted Brownie Cookies, certain mistakes can prevent you from achieving the perfect texture and flavor. Here are some common errors to watch out for:
- Not using room temperature eggs – Cold eggs can lead to a lumpy batter. Always use eggs that are at room temperature for a smoother blend.
- Overmixing the batter – Mixing too much can result in tough cookies. Mix until just combined to maintain a fudgy texture.
- Skipping the sea salt topping – The sea salt enhances the chocolate flavor. Don’t skip this step; it’s essential for balance!
- Incorrect oven temperature – An oven that’s too hot or too cold can ruin your cookies. Use an oven thermometer to ensure accuracy.
- Using old baking powder – Expired baking powder will affect the rise of your cookies. Check the date before baking.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store your Salted Brownie Cookies in an airtight container.
- They will last for up to 2 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Salted Brownie Cookies
- Place cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet until frozen solid.
- After freezing, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months.
Reheating Salted Brownie Cookies
- Oven – Preheat your oven to 350ºF and warm cookies for about 5 minutes.
- Microwave – Heat each cookie for about 10-15 seconds until warm, but be cautious not to overdo it.
- Stovetop – Place a cookie on a non-stick skillet over low heat, cover, and warm for a few minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions about Salted Brownie Cookies that might help you with your baking journey.
How do I make Salted Brownie Cookies chewy?
To achieve chewy cookies, avoid overmixing and ensure you don’t bake them too long. The gooey center is key!
Can I use dark chocolate chips instead of semi-sweet?
Yes! Dark chocolate chips will give your Salted Brownie Cookies a richer flavor. Just adjust sweetness based on preference.
What if I don’t have espresso powder?
Espresso powder is optional but enhances chocolate flavor. If unavailable, you can omit it without affecting the recipe much.
How long should I let the cookies cool before serving?
Allow your Salted Brownie Cookies to cool for about 5 minutes on the baking sheet before transferring them to a cooling rack.
Final Thoughts
Salted Brownie Cookies combine the best features of brownies and cookies into one irresistible treat. Their rich flavor and soft texture make them perfect for any occasion. Feel free to customize these cookies with different types of chocolate or nuts for added variety. Enjoy this delightful recipe with friends and family!
Salted Brownie Cookies
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 24 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Salted Brownie Cookies are the ultimate treat for chocolate lovers, combining the rich, fudgy goodness of brownies with the delightful chewiness of cookies. Each bite offers a shiny, crackly top and is generously sprinkled with sea salt flakes, enhancing the chocolate flavor and providing a perfect balance of sweet and salty. This easy-to-make recipe will have you enjoying fresh cookies in just 25 minutes, making them an ideal indulgence for parties or cozy nights at home. Customize these cookies by adding your favorite nuts or chocolate chips for a personal touch. Get ready to satisfy your sweet tooth with these irresistibly delicious salted brownie cookies!
Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 2 large eggs
- 1 egg yolk
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 6 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- Sea salt flakes (for topping)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350ºF and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and cocoa powder; set aside.
- In a stand mixer, beat eggs, egg yolk, sugar, oil, and vanilla until frothy.
- Melt chocolate chips and butter in a saucepan; whisk in dry ingredients.
- Combine wet and dry mixtures until just combined.
- Scoop tablespoon-sized dough onto baking sheets, spacing them apart.
- Sprinkle sea salt on top and bake for 8–10 minutes until shiny.
- Cool on sheets for 5 minutes before transferring to a rack.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie (25g)
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 85mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
