Imagine biting into a treat that combines the rich, chocolaty decadence of a brownie with the soft, chewy sweetness of a cookie. Irresistible, right? That’s exactly what Irresistible Fudgy Brookies with a Gooey Center deliver—a dessert so indulgent, it’s impossible to have just one. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just satisfying a craving, this recipe guarantees a treat that will leave everyone coming back for more.
What Are Brookies?
Brookies are the ultimate dessert hybrid, combining two fan-favorites: brownies and cookies. They’re layered or swirled together to create a dessert that’s fudgy, gooey, and irresistibly sweet. Think of them as the best of both worlds—a brownie base with a cookie top, or sometimes marbled together for a gorgeous effect.
Why You’ll Love These Fudgy Brookies
- Two Desserts in One: Enjoy the richness of brownies and the chewiness of cookies in a single bite.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: These brookies are versatile, whether for parties, bake sales, or an evening snack.
- Customizable: Add nuts, chocolate chips, or caramel for a personal touch.
- Beginner-Friendly: No advanced baking skills are required.
Tools You’ll Need
Before you begin, gather these essential tools to make your brookie-making experience smooth and enjoyable:
Tool | Purpose |
---|---|
Mixing bowls | For preparing brownie and cookie batters. |
Whisk | To mix wet and dry ingredients. |
Electric mixer (optional) | For creaming butter and sugar. |
Baking dish (9×13 inches) | For layering the brookie batter. |
Parchment paper | To prevent sticking and for easy cleanup. |
Measuring cups and spoons | To ensure precise measurements. |
Spatula | For folding ingredients and spreading batter. |
Cooling rack | To cool brookies evenly after baking. |
Ingredients for Fudgy Brookies
Brownie Layer
Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
---|---|---|
Unsalted butter | ½ cup (1 stick) | Melted for a rich, moist texture. |
Granulated sugar | 1 cup | For sweetness and structure. |
Eggs | 2 large | Bind the ingredients together. |
Vanilla extract | 1 teaspoon | Adds depth of flavor. |
Unsweetened cocoa powder | ⅓ cup | For intense chocolaty flavor. |
All-purpose flour | ½ cup | The base for the brownie layer. |
Salt | ¼ teaspoon | Enhances the chocolate flavor. |
Cookie Layer
Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
---|---|---|
Unsalted butter | ½ cup (1 stick) | Softened for easy mixing. |
Brown sugar | ½ cup | Adds chewiness and caramel notes. |
Granulated sugar | ¼ cup | Balances the sweetness. |
Egg | 1 large | Helps the cookie dough come together. |
Vanilla extract | 1 teaspoon | Complements the sweetness. |
All-purpose flour | 1 ¼ cups | Forms the structure of the cookie. |
Baking soda | ½ teaspoon | Ensures the cookie layer rises. |
Salt | ¼ teaspoon | Enhances the overall flavor. |
Chocolate chips | 1 cup | Adds gooey pockets of melted chocolate. |
Step-by-Step Recipe
1. Prepare the Brownie Batter
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the melted butter and granulated sugar until smooth.
- Add the eggs and vanilla extract, whisking until fully combined.
- Sift in the cocoa powder, flour, and salt. Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until no streaks remain. Set aside.
2. Make the Cookie Dough
- In a separate bowl, cream the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy (use an electric mixer for ease).
- Beat in the egg and vanilla extract.
- Gradually add the flour, baking soda, and salt, mixing until just combined.
- Fold in the chocolate chips for bursts of gooey chocolate goodness.
3. Layer the Brookies
- Spread the brownie batter evenly in the prepared baking dish. Use a spatula to ensure the layer is smooth.
- Gently spoon dollops of cookie dough on top of the brownie layer, spreading lightly to create an even layer.
4. Bake to Perfection
- Bake the brookies in the preheated oven for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with moist crumbs (not wet batter).
- Remove from the oven and let cool in the pan for 15 minutes.
- Transfer to a cooling rack and allow to cool completely before cutting into squares.
Pro Tips for Perfect Brookies
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure the butter and eggs are at room temperature for better mixing.
- Don’t Overbake: Slightly underbaking ensures the center remains gooey.
- Use Quality Cocoa: High-quality unsweetened cocoa powder enhances the brownie flavor.
- Customize the Mix-Ins: Add chopped nuts, white chocolate chips, or caramel bits for variety.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
Nutrient | Amount |
---|---|
Calories | ~220 |
Total Fat | 10g |
Saturated Fat | 6g |
Carbohydrates | 30g |
Protein | 2g |
Sodium | 80mg |
FAQs About Brookies
1. Can I freeze brookies?
Yes! Once cooled, wrap individual pieces tightly in plastic wrap and store in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
2. How do I store leftovers?
Keep brookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. Refrigeration is not necessary but can extend their freshness.
3. Can I make brookies gluten-free?
Absolutely! Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend designed for baking.
4. What’s the best way to cut brookies?
For clean edges, chill the brookies in the refrigerator for 30 minutes before slicing with a sharp knife.
5. Can I use store-bought brownie or cookie mix?
Yes, you can! For convenience, you can use pre-made mixes, but homemade batter gives the best flavor and texture.
6. How can I make brookies extra gooey?
Add an extra tablespoon of butter to the brownie batter and slightly underbake for a gooier center.
Conclusion
Making Irresistible Fudgy Brookies with a Gooey Center at home is not only simple but also a delightful way to combine two classic desserts into one irresistible treat. These brookies are perfect for sharing, gifting, or savoring all by yourself. Now that you’ve got the recipe and all the tips you need, it’s time to grab your apron and bake your way to dessert heaven.
What are you waiting for? Give this recipe a try and make your kitchen the heart of every celebration!
PrintIrresistible Fudgy Brookies with a Gooey Center
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 12–16 squares
Description
These brookies combine the best of two desserts—rich, chocolaty brownies and soft, chewy cookies—into one irresistible treat with a gooey center. Perfect for any occasion, they’re easy to make and customizable to your taste!
Ingredients
For the Brownie Layer
- ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ⅓ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- ¼ teaspoon salt
For the Cookie Layer
- ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
- ½ cup brown sugar
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup chocolate chips
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare the Pan
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper for easy removal.
- Make the Brownie Batter
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the melted butter and sugar until smooth.
- Add the eggs and vanilla extract, mixing until fully combined.
- Sift in the cocoa powder, flour, and salt, and gently fold until the batter is smooth. Set aside.
- Make the Cookie Dough
- In another bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
- Beat in the egg and vanilla extract.
- Gradually add the flour, baking soda, and salt, mixing until just combined.
- Fold in the chocolate chips.
- Layer the Brookies
- Spread the brownie batter evenly into the prepared baking dish.
- Spoon the cookie dough on top in small dollops, then gently spread it to create an even layer.
- Bake the Brookies
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with moist crumbs.
- Let cool in the pan for 15 minutes before transferring to a cooling rack. Allow to cool completely before slicing.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25–30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American