A treat that combines the rich decadence of brownies with the delightful crispness of a cookie. These cookies literally melt in your mouth, offering a fudgy interior and a slight chew on the edges. Perfect for chocolate lovers, these cookies are a hit at gatherings, holiday parties, or even as a personal indulgence.
History and Formation
Brownie cookies are inspired by the timeless brownie—a dessert that originated in the United States in the late 19th century. The exact origin is debated, but they first appeared in a Chicago cookbook in 1893. Meltaway brownie cookies are a modern twist, taking the gooey essence of a brownie and reshaping it into a cookie form. This creation allows for the portability and snackability of cookies while retaining the irresistible chocolate intensity of brownies.
Ingredients
For the Cookies
1 cup (230g) unsalted butter, softened
1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
1 cup (220g) packed brown sugar
2 large eggs
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
3/4 cup (75g) unsweetened cocoa powder
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup (175g) semi-sweet chocolate chips
Optional Toppings
Powdered sugar for dusting
Sea salt flakes for a savory touch
Crushed nuts for added texture
Instructions
- Prepare the Dough
In a large bowl, cream together butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until fluffy and smooth.
Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract.
- Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, sift together flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.
Fold in chocolate chips for bursts of chocolate in every bite.
- Chill the Dough
Refrigerate the dough for 30 minutes to firm up, making it easier to handle.
- Shape and Bake
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
Scoop out tablespoon-sized balls of dough and place them 2 inches apart on the prepared sheets.
Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are set but the centers still look soft.
- Cool and Finish
Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.
Dust with powdered sugar, sprinkle with sea salt, or add your favorite toppings if desired.
Methods and Tips
- Consistency is Key: Chilling the dough prevents the cookies from spreading too much while baking.
- Texture Perfection: Underbaking slightly ensures a fudgy center, while the edges remain crisp.
- Custom Add-Ins: Experiment with white chocolate chips, caramel chunks, or dried fruit for a personalized touch.
Lovers of Meltaway Brownie Cookies
This recipe is a favorite among:
Chocolate Enthusiasts: Who crave intense chocolate flavor in every bite.
Holiday Bakers: Looking for a show-stopping addition to their dessert spread.
Kids and Families: Perfect for school lunches or weekend baking projects.
Conclusion
Meltaway Brownie Cookies are a testament to the magic of combining two classic desserts into one irresistible treat. Their rich, chocolatey flavor and tender texture make them a universally adored indulgence. Whether you’re savoring them warm out of the oven or pairing them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, these cookies are bound to become a staple in your dessert repertoire.