Are you ready to indulge in the ultimate sweet treat? Brownie crinkle cookies are the perfect blend of rich chocolate brownie goodness and delightful cookie texture. With their signature crinkled tops and fudgy centers, these cookies are a chocolate lover’s dream!
Imagine biting into a soft, gooey cookie that melts in your mouth, leaving you craving more. They’re not just delicious; they’re easy to make, too! You can whip them up in no time, impressing family and friends with your baking skills.
In this recipe, I’ll guide you through each step, ensuring you create cookies that are not only tasty but also visually stunning. So grab your ingredients and let’s get baking!
Why Make Brownie Crinkle Cookies?
Brownie crinkle cookies are the perfect indulgence for anyone who loves chocolate. Their unique texture—a crisp outer shell that gives way to a soft, gooey interior—will satisfy any sweet tooth. Here are some reasons to make these cookies:
- Easy to Make: You can whip up these cookies in under an hour, making them a great choice for last-minute baking or when you need a chocolate fix.
- No Chilling Required: Unlike many cookie recipes that require chilling time, these cookies can be baked immediately after mixing the ingredients, which means you’ll be enjoying them in no time.
- Versatile: They can be enjoyed on their own or used as a base for ice cream sandwiches, adding an extra layer of fun to your dessert.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether you’re baking for a family gathering, a holiday celebration, or just because, these cookies will impress everyone.
Ingredients You Need to Make Brownie Crinkle Cookies
Here’s a detailed list of ingredients you’ll need to get started, along with some tips on substitutes if you don’t have something on hand:
| Ingredient | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Semi-Sweet Chocolate | 8 oz (about 227g) | You can use chocolate bars, discs, or chips. |
| Unsalted Butter | 1/2 cup (113g) | Melted. Avoid salted butter for better flavor control. |
| Granulated Sugar | 1 cup (200g) | Regular white sugar; can substitute with caster sugar. |
| Light Brown Sugar | 1/2 cup (100g) | Dark brown sugar can also be used for a richer flavor. |
| Eggs | 2 large | Use room-temperature eggs for better mixing. |
| Vanilla Extract | 1 tsp | For added flavor. |
| All-Purpose Flour | 1 cup (125g) | Ensure it’s leveled for accuracy. |
| Cocoa Powder | 1/3 cup (40g) | Dutch-processed or unsweetened, depending on your preference. |
| Baking Powder | 1/2 tsp | For lift in the cookies. |
| Salt | 1/4 tsp | Enhances the flavors; flaky sea salt for topping. |
Optional Add-ins:
- Espresso Powder: Adding 1 tsp can enhance the chocolate flavor.
- Chocolate Chips: Fold in 1/2 cup of chocolate chips for extra gooeyness.
How to Make Brownie Crinkle Cookies
Making brownie crinkle cookies is a straightforward process that anyone can master. Follow these step-by-step instructions for the best results.
Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare Baking Sheets
Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Melt the Chocolate and Butter
In a heatproof bowl, combine the chopped chocolate and butter. You can melt them together using:
- Double Boiler Method: Place the bowl over a saucepan of simmering water, stirring until melted and smooth.
- Microwave Method: Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until melted.
Step 3: Whisk the Sugars and Eggs
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract until the mixture is light and fluffy. This should take about 5 minutes on medium-high speed.
Step 4: Combine the Chocolate Mixture
Once the chocolate and butter mixture has cooled slightly, add it to the egg mixture. Mix until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
Step 5: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. This step is crucial for ensuring even distribution of dry ingredients.
Step 6: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Stir until just combined. The dough should be thick and slightly sticky.
Step 7: Scoop the Dough
Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, drop heaping spoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheets. Make sure to leave about 2 inches of space between each cookie, as they will spread while baking.
Step 8: Sprinkle with Sea Salt
For that signature brownie crinkle cookie flavor, sprinkle a little flaky sea salt on top of each dough ball.
Step 9: Bake the Cookies
Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for about 10-12 minutes. They should look set around the edges but still soft in the middle. Allow them to cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Storing Leftover Brownie Crinkle Cookies
While these cookies are best enjoyed fresh, you can store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, place the cookies in a freezer-safe bag and freeze them for up to 1 month. To enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature or pop them in the microwave for a few seconds.
Recipe Tips and Tricks
Here are some expert tips to ensure your brownie crinkle cookies turn out perfectly every time:
- Measure Accurately: Using a kitchen scale for precise measurements can make a big difference in baking.
- Don’t Overmix: Mix the batter just until combined to keep the cookies soft and chewy.
- Use Quality Chocolate: The flavor of your cookies largely depends on the chocolate you use, so choose a good quality brand.
- Watch the Baking Time: Overbaking can lead to dry cookies. Keep an eye on them as they bake.
- Experiment with Flavors: Don’t hesitate to add your favorite nuts, chocolate chunks, or even a swirl of peanut butter for a unique twist.
Recipe FAQs
How Do I Get Fudgy Brownie Cookies?
To achieve fudgy brownie cookies, ensure you don’t overbake them. They will continue to firm up as they cool, so it’s better to underbake slightly.
Can I Freeze Leftover Cookies?
Absolutely! Baked cookies freeze well. Just make sure they are in an airtight container, and they will stay fresh for up to one month.
Can I Chill the Dough?
For this specific recipe, chilling the dough is not recommended. Chilling alters the texture and may affect the iconic crinkle appearance of the cookies.
What Can I Do if My Cookies Don’t Crinkle?
If your cookies don’t have that signature crinkle, it could be due to not whisking the eggs and sugars long enough. Ensure you whip them for a full 5 minutes until they are thick and airy.
Conclusion
Brownie crinkle cookies are a delightful treat that’s simple to make and sure to impress. With their rich chocolate flavor and beautiful crinkle tops, these cookies are perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re baking for yourself, friends, or family, they are bound to be a hit! Follow the steps and tips in this guide, and you’ll be on your way to baking perfect brownie crinkle cookies every time.
Now that you know how to make these delicious cookies, it’s time to roll up your sleeves and get baking! Your friends and family will love the treat, and you’ll enjoy the process of creating something truly special. Happy baking!