Name: Fudgy Brownie Cookies
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 32 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 170g semi-sweet chocolate chips; 60g unsalted butter; 100g granulated sugar; 50g brown sugar; 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 70g all-purpose flour; 30g cocoa powder; 1/2 teaspoon baking powder; 1/4 teaspoon salt; Flaky sea salt for topping (optional)

Craving that deep, fudgy brownie flavor but in a handheld form? Fudgy Brownie Cookies are the perfect answer—they’re rich, intensely chocolatey, and finished with a crackly top that hints at the decadence waiting inside. These cookies are everything we love about brownies, transformed into an indulgent bite-sized treat.

They combine the best of both worlds: the chewy texture of a brownie and the convenience of a cookie. Ideal for gifting, sharing, or storing in a cookie jar for a sweet fix, these cookies are as irresistible as they look. Whether you’re baking for a holiday tray or a cozy weekend treat, this recipe is a surefire crowd-pleaser.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before diving into the batter, gather these essential tools for the best baking results:

Mixing Bowls: You’ll need at least two—one for the wet ingredients, and another for the dry. Glass or stainless steel works best for even temperature control.
Hand Mixer or Stand Mixer: A powerful mixer ensures the eggs and sugar whip to the right consistency, which is crucial for that shiny, crinkled top.
Rubber Spatula: Helps in gently folding the melted chocolate and flour mixture without over-mixing, preserving the cookie texture.
Cookie Scoop: Ensures uniform sizing, which helps cookies bake evenly.
Baking Sheet + Parchment Paper: Prevents sticking and promotes even baking. A light-colored baking sheet avoids over-browning the cookie bottoms.
Wire Rack: For cooling the cookies evenly and quickly, which helps set their shape without overbaking.

Having the right tools not only saves time but ensures consistency in texture and appearance—both critical for cookie perfection.

Ingredients for the Fudgy Brownie Cookies

Semi-sweet chocolate chips: They provide that intense chocolate base and smooth richness in every bite.
Unsalted butter: Adds creaminess and richness while helping achieve that soft fudgy center.
Granulated sugar: Sweetens the cookies and helps create the shiny, crackly tops.
Brown sugar: Adds moisture and deepens the flavor with a touch of molasses.
Large eggs: These bind the ingredients and give the cookies their chewy texture.
Vanilla extract: Rounds out the flavor with a warm, aromatic finish.
All-purpose flour: Gives the cookies structure without making them cakey.
Cocoa powder: Boosts the chocolate flavor and deepens the color.
Salt: Balances the sweetness and sharpens the chocolate profile.
Flaky sea salt (for topping): Optional, but enhances the sweetness and adds a fancy touch.

How To Make the Fudgy Brownie Cookies

Step 1: Melt and Mix the Chocolate Base

In a heatproof bowl, melt the semi-sweet chocolate chips and butter together over a double boiler or in the microwave in 30-second intervals. Stir until completely smooth. Let it cool slightly.

Step 2: Whip the Eggs and Sugars

In a large mixing bowl, beat the eggs, granulated sugar, and brown sugar on high speed until the mixture is thick, pale, and ribbony—about 3-5 minutes. This step creates the signature crinkled tops.

Step 3: Combine the Wet and Dry Ingredients

Slowly mix in the melted chocolate and vanilla extract into the egg mixture. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mix using a spatula.

Step 4: Scoop and Rest the Dough

Use a cookie scoop to portion out the dough onto a parchment-lined baking sheet. Let the scooped dough rest for 15-20 minutes—this helps them firm up before baking.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the cookies for 10-12 minutes or until the tops are crackled and the edges are set. Remove from the oven and immediately sprinkle flaky sea salt if using.

Step 6: Cool and Serve

Let the cookies rest on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy the chewy, fudgy centers with a glass of cold milk.

How to Serve and Store Fudgy Brownie Cookies

Serve these cookies slightly warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert, or pair with a cold glass of milk for a classic treat. They also make a great addition to cookie platters or gift boxes during the holidays.

To store, keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze the baked cookies for up to 2 months. Let them come to room temperature before serving, or warm them slightly in the microwave for that just-baked texture.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes these cookies fudgy instead of cakey?

The high chocolate-to-flour ratio and using melted chocolate rather than just cocoa powder contribute to a dense, fudgy texture.

Can I use dark chocolate instead of semi-sweet?

Absolutely. Dark chocolate gives a deeper, less sweet flavor. Just make sure it’s a high-quality melting chocolate.

Why do my cookies not have a crackly top?

Beating the eggs and sugars long enough is essential. This step introduces air and creates the meringue-like crust typical in brownies.

Can I add nuts or chocolate chunks?

Yes! Chopped walnuts, pecans, or additional chocolate chunks can be folded in after the dry ingredients.

Do I need to chill the dough?

No chilling is required, but resting the scooped dough briefly helps maintain shape and texture.

How do I prevent overbaking?

Watch for the shiny, crinkled top and set edges—remove them promptly and let carryover heat finish the centers.

Want More Chocolate Dessert Ideas?

You might also like the Indulgent Chocolate Chess Pie, a gooey, sliceable option for chocolate lovers. Or try the Chocolate Peanut Butter Dream Bars for a creamy, layered bar treat.

For more structured bakes, the Decadent Chocolate S’mores Cupcakes bring that nostalgic campfire flavor indoors. And if you’re after bite-sized joy, check out the Mini Cinnamon Roll Cheesecakes that swirl sweetness into every bite.

Explore dozens more baking inspirations from my Pinterest board: LadyPlate on Pinterest

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If you make it, I’d love to hear how it turned out. Did you try it with flaky salt? Add nuts? Leave a comment below. I’m always curious how others make it their own!