Chef Mitchell preparing Decadent Salted Brownie Cookies
👨‍🍳 Professional Chef

Recipe by Mitchell

🎓 10+ Years Experience ⏰ 1000+ Recipes Created 🍽️ Culinary Graduate

❤️ My Recipe Story

"I discovered the joy of brownie cookies during a baking class, where the instructor combined my two favorite treats. After much experimentation, I perfected this recipe that balances rich chocolate flavor with a hint of salt. Each batch brings back memories of my early baking days and the excitement of sharing them with loved ones. Now, these cookies are a staple in my kitchen, bringing joy to every occasion."

Chef Mitchell is an expert in American cuisine, specializing in desserts that blend tradition with innovation. With over a decade of experience, he has created countless recipes, each reflecting his passion for flavor and technique. His love for baking shines through in every treat he crafts, particularly in his delightful brownie cookies.

View All Mitchell's Recipes →
A delicious plate of Decadent Salted Brownie Cookies, freshly baked and drizzled with chocolate sauce.

Why This Decadent Salted Brownie Cookies Recipe Works

This recipe stands out because it merges the best qualities of brownies and cookies into one delightful treat. The use of melted butter ensures a rich flavor and chewy texture, while a touch of cocoa powder gives a deep chocolate taste. The addition of sea salt not only enhances the sweetness but also adds an unexpected twist that elevates each bite.

The flavor profile is a harmonious blend of rich chocolate with subtle hints of saltiness. The texture combines a slightly crisp edge with a soft and fudgy center, creating an irresistible mouthfeel. Baking them to just underdone ensures they remain soft, making them perfect for enjoying warm or at room temperature.

💡 Professional Tip

For perfectly chewy cookies, be careful not to over-bake them. They will continue to cook on the baking sheet after you take them out of the oven. Let them cool completely for the best texture.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, you can prepare the dough ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 3 days before baking. Just make sure to let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before scooping and baking.

You can use Dutch-process cocoa powder for a smoother flavor, or substitute with carob powder for a different taste. However, keep in mind that it may alter the final flavor profile slightly.

Baking is the best method for these cookies as it allows them to maintain their fudgy texture. Using parchment paper on the baking sheet also helps in achieving the perfect bake without sticking.

Chilling the dough for at least 30 minutes before baking will help control spreading. Ensure your butter is melted but not hot, as hot butter can cause the dough to spread excessively.

The cookies are done when the edges are set and the centers look slightly underbaked. They will firm up as they cool, so do not over-bake them.

These cookies pair wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of chocolate sauce. A cup of coffee or a glass of milk also enhances the experience.

Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make these cookies gluten-free. Ensure that the blend contains xanthan gum for proper binding.

Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. You can also freeze them for up to 3 months; just make sure to layer them with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Recipe Troubleshooting Guide

Cookies are too dry

Problem: If your cookies turn out dry, it may be due to overbaking or too much flour.

Solution: Always measure flour correctly by spooning it into the measuring cup and leveling it off. Keep an eye on the baking time to ensure they stay soft.

Cookies spread too much

Problem: Excessive spreading can occur if the dough is too warm or if there's not enough flour.

Solution: Chill the dough for at least 30 minutes before baking. Ensure ingredients are measured accurately for the best results.

Cookies are too salty

Problem: If the cookies are too salty, it may be due to the amount of sea salt used.

Prevention: Use a measured pinch of sea salt on each cookie, rather than sprinkling directly from the container, to control the amount better.

Cookies lack chocolate flavor

Problem: A lack of chocolate flavor may result from using low-quality cocoa powder or chocolate chips.

Recovery: Use high-quality unsweetened cocoa powder and chocolate chips for a richer chocolate taste.

Cookies are too gooey

Problem: If cookies are too gooey, they may not be baked long enough.

Prevention: Ensure that the cookies are baked until the edges are firm but the center is still soft, and let them cool on the baking sheet.

Flavor Balance Issues

Too Sweet: If your cookies are too sweet, consider reducing the amount of sugar next time.

Too Salty: If they taste too salty, reduce the amount of sea salt sprinkled on top.

Bland: To enhance bland cookies, consider adding more chocolate chips or a hint of espresso powder for depth.

A vibrant arrangement of ingredients for Decadent Salted Brownie Cookies, including butter, eggs, chocolate chips, and cocoa powder.

Choosing the Best Ingredients for Decadent Salted Brownie Cookies

Using high-quality ingredients is essential for achieving the best flavor and texture in your cookies. Look for pure vanilla extract, high-quality cocoa powder, and good chocolate chips to elevate your treat. Fresh eggs and unsalted butter will provide the perfect balance of moisture and richness.

When preparing your ingredients, make sure to measure accurately and have everything at room temperature. This helps in achieving a smooth batter, ensuring even mixing and better results in the oven.

Essential Ingredient Notes

  • Unsalted Butter: Unsalted butter is crucial for controlling the saltiness in your cookies. Always use fresh, high-fat content butter for the best texture and flavor.
  • Chocolate Chips: Use high-quality chocolate chips for a richer flavor and better melting properties. Semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips are great options for this recipe.
  • Cocoa Powder: Choose a premium cocoa powder for a deep chocolate flavor. Natural cocoa powder works well, but Dutch-process cocoa can provide a smoother taste.
A kitchen scene showing the preparation of Decadent Salted Brownie Cookies, with melted chocolate and mixing bowls.

Mastering the Cooking Technique

The secret to perfect brownie cookies lies in the mixing process. Be careful not to overmix after adding the dry ingredients, as this can lead to tougher cookies. Instead, gently fold until just combined.

Keep a close eye on the baking time; removing the cookies from the oven while they still look slightly underbaked will ensure a fudgy center. Pay attention to the edges turning set while the middle remains soft for the best results.

The Secret to Perfect Decadent Salted Brownie Cookies

The key to achieving a perfect texture is to underbake slightly, allowing cookies to continue cooking on the baking sheet. This will give you that delightful chewy center that makes brownie cookies so special.

Decadent Salted Brownie Cookies

Prep 15 min
Cook 20 min
Serves 4-6 servings
Level Easy

📋 Ingredients

Sauce

  • 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
    Adds deep chocolate flavor to the cookies
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
    Helps cookies rise for a fluffy texture
  • 1/4 teaspoon sea salt
    Enhances overall flavor profile
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
    Provides aromatic sweetness
  • 1/2 cup chocolate chips
    Adds melted chocolate pockets

Main Ingredients

  • 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
    Base for the cookie dough
  • 1 1/4 cups granulated sugar
    Provides sweetness
  • 1/4 cup packed brown sugar
    Enhances moisture and flavor
  • 3 large eggs
    Provides structure and richness
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
    Forms the cookie base
  • 1/2 cup chocolate chips
    Adds melted chocolate pockets
  • Sea salt for sprinkling
    Enhances flavor and presentation

Instructions

  1. Preheat the Oven

    Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

  2. Mix Wet Ingredients

    In a large mixing bowl, combine the melted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar. Mix until smooth.

  3. Add Eggs and Vanilla

    Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract until fully incorporated.

  4. Combine Dry Ingredients

    In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.

  5. Incorporate Dry Ingredients

    Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.

  6. Add Chocolate Chips

    Fold in the chocolate chips, ensuring an even distribution within the dough.

  7. Scoop and Shape Cookies

    Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, drop the dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.

  8. Sprinkle with Sea Salt

    Sprinkle a pinch of sea salt over each cookie dough ball before baking.

  9. Bake the Cookies

    Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, until the edges are set and the centers look slightly underbaked.

  10. Cool and Enjoy

    Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Recipe Notes & Tips

Make-Ahead Instructions

You can prepare the dough a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just allow it to come to room temperature before scooping and baking.

Serving Suggestions

Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce for a decadent dessert experience.

Recipe Variations

Feel free to mix in nuts or swap out chocolate chips for white or peanut butter chips for a unique twist.