Who doesn’t love the rich, fudgy taste of brownies and the convenience of cookies all in one treat? Brownie cookies made from a mix box are a game-changer for anyone with a sweet tooth.
Imagine taking a boxed brownie mix and turning it into a batch of delicious, portable cookies. It’s a simple process that requires minimal ingredients and preparation time, making it perfect for both novice and experienced bakers.
These chocolate treats are not only easy to make, but they’re also customizable with various mix-ins to suit different tastes. Whether you’re looking for a quick dessert or a special treat, this recipe is sure to satisfy.
Key Takeaways
- Easy to make with minimal ingredients
- Combines the best qualities of brownies and cookies
- Customizable with various mix-ins
- Perfect for novice and experienced bakers
- Great for satisfying chocolate cravings quickly
Why Brownie Mix Cookies Are the Perfect Easy Dessert
Brownie mix cookies are a game-changer for dessert lovers, offering the best of both worlds in every bite. They combine the richness of brownies with the convenience and portability of cookies.
The Best of Both Worlds: Brownies Meet Cookies
These innovative treats bring together the fudgy, rich texture of brownies and the ease of cookies. The result is a cookie that has a crispy edge, similar to the coveted edge pieces of a brownie pan, but remains soft in the middle. This unique texture makes them a hit with anyone looking for a delicious dessert without the hassle.
Quick Prep Time for Impressive Results
One of the standout features of brownie mix cookies is their quick preparation time. Typically, you can have the cookie dough ready in under 15 minutes, making them perfect for last-minute dessert needs. With just a few ingredients – usually a brownie mix, oil, and eggs – you can create a batch of cookies that are sure to impress. The simplicity of this recipe means that even beginners can achieve consistent results, making it an ideal treat for any occasion.
What You’ll Need to Make Brownie Cookies from Mix Boxes
To make delicious brownie cookies from mix boxes, you’ll need a few simple ingredients and some basic kitchen tools. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and flexibility, allowing you to create a unique dessert with minimal effort.
Essential Ingredients
The essential ingredients for making brownie cookies from a mix include an 18-20oz box of brownie mix, eggs (usually just 1-2, fewer than called for on the box), vegetable oil, and optional chocolate chips. It’s crucial to note that you’ll be deviating from the package instructions by adjusting the proportions to achieve a cookie texture rather than a brownie texture. Depending on the mix, you might need to add a tablespoon of water if the dough seems too dry or crumbly.
Some mixes may also require a small amount of all-purpose flour to achieve the right consistency. Having mix-ins ready, such as additional chocolate chips or nuts, can help you customize your cookies to your liking.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Brownie Mix | 18-20oz box | Brands like Betty Crocker Fudge Brownie Mix work well |
| Eggs | 1-2 | Fewer than called for on the box |
| Vegetable Oil | As required | Adjust according to the mix instructions |
| Chocolate Chips | Optional | Add-ins for extra flavor |
Recommended Brownie Mix Brands
Not all brownie mixes are created equal. Betty Crocker Fudge Brownie Mix and Ghirardelli brownie mix are highly recommended for their rich flavor. Aldi’s “Specially Selected” Brownie mix is another great option, known for being a dupe for Ghirardelli at a lower price point.
Kitchen Tools for Success
To ensure your brownie cookies turn out perfectly, you’ll need a few basic kitchen tools: a mixing bowl, measuring cups, a cookie scoop, a baking sheet, and parchment paper or a silicone liner. The cookie scoop helps in achieving uniform cookies, while parchment paper prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Perfect Brownie Mix Cookies
To make the perfect brownie mix cookies, follow these straightforward steps. This guide will walk you through preparing your ingredients, mixing the dough, scooping the cookies, and baking them to perfection.
Preparing Your Ingredients and Workspace
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to ensure easy cleanup and prevent cookies from sticking. Gather all your ingredients, including the brownie mix, eggs, and oil, and place them within easy reach.
Mixing the Cookie Dough
In a large bowl, combine the dry brownie mix with the wet ingredients. Use a hand mixer or a wooden spoon to mix until everything is evenly combined. The resulting dough will be thicker than brownie batter but softer than traditional cookie dough.
Scooping and Shaping the Cookies
Using a 2 T sized cookie scoop, portion the dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing each dough ball 2 inches apart. You can slightly flatten the dough balls with your palm, as these cookies don’t spread much during baking.
Baking Time and Temperature
Bake the cookies for 8-10 minutes or until the edges are set but the centers still look slightly doughy. Remove them from the oven and let them rest on the baking sheet for 2-3 minutes before transferring to a cooling rack.
| Baking Parameter | Setting |
|---|---|
| Oven Temperature | 350°F |
| Baking Time | 8-10 minutes |
| Cookies per Batch | Depends on scoop size |
Expert Tips for Fudgy Brownie Cookies
The key to making exceptional brownie mix cookies lies in a few simple techniques. To achieve that perfect fudgy texture, it’s crucial to pay attention to the details.
Preventing Overbaking
One of the most critical factors is not to overbake these cookies. They’ll appear slightly underdone when they first come out of the oven, but they’ll firm up as they cool on the baking sheet. Using an oven thermometer can help ensure your oven is at the right temperature, as ovens that run hot can cause the cookies to brown too quickly on the edges.
Achieving the Perfect Texture
To achieve the perfect texture, use room temperature eggs and avoid overmixing the dough. Positioning the oven rack in the upper-middle position can also help prevent the bottoms from browning too quickly. Allowing the cookies to cool properly on the sheet lined with parchment paper is crucial for the right texture.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
If your brownie mix cookies spread too much, refrigerating the dough for 30 minutes can help. If they’re too dry, reducing the baking time or adding 1 tablespoon of water to the dough can make a difference. It’s also a good idea to test bake one or two cookies first to determine the perfect baking time for your specific oven.
Delicious Mix-Ins and Variations for Brownie Cookies
Brownie cookies become even more irresistible with the right mix-ins and variations. One of the simplest ways to elevate your brownie cookies is by adding different types of chocolate chips or chunks.
Chocolate Chip Add-Ins
Consider adding semi-sweet chocolate chips, white chocolate chips, or dark chocolate chunks to your brownie cookie dough. Typically, ½ cup of chocolate chips per batch is a good starting point.
Nut and Candy Variations
You can also incorporate chopped nuts like walnuts, pecans, or almonds for added texture and flavor. For a fun twist, try adding candy pieces like M&Ms, toffee bits, or chopped candy bars.
Peanut Butter Brownie Cookies
To make peanut butter brownie cookies, you can swirl in peanut butter or add peanut butter chips to the dough. This adds a rich, nutty flavor to your cookies.
Crinkle Cookie Variation
For a crinkle cookie effect, roll the dough balls in powdered sugar before baking. This gives the cookies a beautiful, crinkled surface and a sweet, sugar coating.
| Mix-In | Description | Quantity |
|---|---|---|
| Chocolate Chips | Semi-sweet, white, or dark chocolate | ½ cup |
| Nuts | Chopped walnuts, pecans, or almonds | ½ cup |
| Peanut Butter Chips | Adds a peanut butter flavor | ½ cup |
| Candy Pieces | M&Ms, toffee bits, or chopped candy bars | ½ cup |
Storing and Serving Your Brownie Mix Cookies
Maintaining the freshness of your brownie mix cookies requires careful storage and handling. To enjoy them at their best, follow these storage and serving tips.
How Long Do They Last?
These brownie mix cookies are best consumed within 3 days of baking for optimal freshness and texture. Store them in an airtight container at room temperature, separating layers with sheet parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Freezing Instructions
To freeze, bake the cookies as directed and then store them in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag. They will keep for 1-2 months in the freezer. Thaw before eating. You can also freeze the cookie dough balls and bake them directly from frozen, adding 1-2 minutes to the baking time.
Serving Suggestions
Enjoy your brownie mix cookies with a glass of cold milk or a warm cup of coffee. For an extra treat, use them to make ice cream sandwiches or warm them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds for that fresh-baked taste.
| Storage Method | Duration | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Room Temperature | Up to 3 days | Store in airtight container |
| Freezer | 1-2 months | Thaw before eating |
Conclusion
Discover the joy of creating irresistible brownie cookies from a mix box with minimal effort. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can transform a simple brownie mix into a delightful treat that’s perfect for any occasion.
Remember, the key to achieving the perfect fudgy texture is to avoid overbaking. Experiment with different mix-ins and variations to customize your cookies to your liking. Whether you’re a novice baker or just looking for a quick chocolate fix, this recipe is sure to impress.
With a good baking sheet, parchment paper, and cookie scoop, you’ll be well on your way to creating delicious brownie mix cookies that are sure to bring joy to any gathering or everyday treat. So, keep a box of brownie mix on hand for cookie emergencies and enjoy the minimal prep time and impressive results.