Easy Brownie Mix Brookie Bars: The Ultimate Fudgy & Chewy Dessert Recipe
Can’t decide between the rich, fudgy delight of brownies and the soft, chewy comfort of chocolate chip cookies? Why settle for one when you can have both? These Brookie Bars perfectly combine a decadent brownie layer with a crave-worthy, homemade brown butter chocolate chip cookie layer, creating an irresistible treat that truly offers the best of both worlds. And the best part? We’re keeping things wonderfully simple by starting with a convenient boxed brownie mix, so you can spend less time prepping and more time enjoying this amazing dessert.
This recipe for Brookie Bars is designed to be straightforward, making it perfect for bakers of all skill levels. We’ll guide you through creating a rich, fudgy brownie base and then top it with a scratch-made brown butter chocolate chip cookie dough that adds a layer of sophisticated flavor. The result is a dessert bar that’s beautifully marbled, incredibly moist, and utterly satisfying. Forget choosing between your two favorite baked goods; with brookies, you truly get the best of both worlds in every single bite!
Why You’ll Love Making These Brookie Bars
These Brookie Bars aren’t just another dessert; they’re an experience waiting to happen. Here’s why this recipe will quickly become a cherished favorite in your baking repertoire:
- Unbeatable Warm & Gooey Indulgence: Imagine a warm square of brookie, the chocolate chips still slightly melted, paired with a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream. It’s pure bliss. The contrasting temperatures and textures elevate this treat to a whole new level of deliciousness. You’ll thank yourself later for trying this serving suggestion!
- Effortlessly Easy Baking: Thanks to a boxed brownie mix, much of the guesswork is eliminated, streamlining the baking process. This means you get that delightful homemade taste and texture without all the fuss, perfect for busy schedules or impromptu cravings.
- A Symphony of Textures: Prepare for a textural delight! Each bar delivers the perfect combination of a dense, fudgy brownie and a soft, chewy chocolate chip cookie layer. The edges are often slightly crisp, while the center remains incredibly moist and gooey – a truly perfect balance.
- Guaranteed Crowd-Pleaser: These Brookie Bars are universally loved and always disappear quickly at gatherings, potlucks, or family dinners. They’re an impressive yet approachable dessert that appeals to everyone, making them a fantastic choice for any occasion. Don’t be surprised if you need to make a double batch!
- Elevated Homemade Charm: While we use a brownie mix for convenience, the homemade brown butter chocolate chip cookie layer adds a sophisticated touch. Browning the butter introduces a rich, nutty depth that makes these brookies taste entirely from scratch, impressing your friends and family with your baking prowess.
Key Ingredients for Your Perfect Brookie Bars
Creating these magnificent Brookie Bars starts with a few simple, yet crucial, ingredients. Here’s a closer look at what you’ll need and why each component plays a vital role:
- Box of Brownie Mix: This is our secret weapon for speed and convenience without sacrificing flavor. I highly recommend a quality brand like Ghirardelli Dark Chocolate for an extra rich, fudgy brownie layer. Remember to have on hand all the additional ingredients specified on your brownie mix box (usually eggs, oil, and water).
- Unsalted Butter: While you can certainly use salted butter if it’s all you have, unsalted gives you complete control over the saltiness in your cookie dough. We’ll be browning this butter, a step that adds an incredible depth of nutty, toasted flavor that makes the cookie layer truly special.
- Brown Sugar: This ingredient is key to achieving that wonderfully chewy texture in your chocolate chip cookie layer. I’ve recently switched from light to dark brown sugar for an even richer, more molasses-like flavor, but either will work beautifully!
- Granulated Sugar: Paired with brown sugar, granulated sugar contributes to the perfect balance of chewiness and a slightly crisp edge in the cookie.
- Large Egg (Room Temperature): A room-temperature egg incorporates more evenly into the batter, leading to a smoother, more consistent cookie dough and a better final texture.
- Egg Yolk (Room Temperature): The addition of an extra egg yolk is a baker’s trick for making cookies extra rich, tender, and chewy. It significantly enhances the texture of our cookie layer.
- Pure Vanilla Extract: Don’t skimp on quality here! A good pure vanilla extract adds a foundational warmth and depth of flavor to the cookie dough that artificial vanilla simply can’t replicate.
- Cornstarch: This might seem like an unusual addition, but a small amount of cornstarch is magical! It helps to keep your cookie dough incredibly soft and chewy for days after baking, preventing them from drying out. Just ensure it’s fresh for the best results.
- All-Purpose Flour: The backbone of our cookie dough. Always remember the proper way to measure flour: scoop it lightly into your measuring cup and then level it off with a straight edge. This prevents over-measuring, which can lead to dense, dry cookies.
- Mini Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips: I prefer mini chips for these bars because they distribute more evenly throughout the cookie layer, ensuring a delightful chocolatey bite in every single piece. However, regular semi-sweet chocolate chips will work just as well if that’s what you have on hand.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Delicious Brookie Bars
Follow these detailed steps to create your own irresistible Brookie Bars. Precision and a little patience will lead to baking perfection!
- 1. Prepare Your Baking Pan
Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). This ensures a consistent baking temperature from the moment your brookies enter the oven. Line a 9×9-inch (23×23 cm) baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on two sides to easily lift the finished bars out later. Lightly coat the parchment paper with a non-stick cooking spray to prevent any sticking. Set this prepared pan aside.
- 2. Prepare the Brownie Batter
Following the instructions on your boxed brownie mix package, prepare the brownie batter. This typically involves combining the dry mix with eggs, oil, and water. Stir until the mixture is well combined and smooth, but be careful not to overmix. Set this rich, chocolatey batter aside. If using a thicker brownie mix, you might need to spread it into the pan first.
- 3. Craft the Brown Butter Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Layer
- Brown the Butter: In a small saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Continue cooking, stirring frequently, until the butter transforms from yellow to a beautiful golden brown, and small brown bits form at the bottom. This usually takes about 3-4 minutes and will fill your kitchen with a wonderful nutty aroma. Immediately remove the pan from the heat and transfer the brown butter to a heatproof bowl to cool for 10-15 minutes. This prevents it from cooking your eggs later.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, baking powder, and salt. Sifting them together ensures there are no lumps and that the leavening agents are evenly distributed.
- Mix Wet Ingredients (Sugars & Butter): In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled brown butter with both the brown sugar and granulated sugar. Using a hand whisk, mix them together until they are well combined and somewhat creamy, about 30 seconds.
- Add Eggs and Vanilla: Whisk in the large egg and then the egg yolk, one at a time. After each addition, whisk vigorously for about 30 seconds. This vigorous mixing helps to dissolve the sugar, creating a beautiful, shiny top on your cookies. Stir in the pure vanilla extract until fully incorporated.
- Combine Wet and Dry & Add Chips: Using a rubber spatula, gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients. Mix until just combined and no streaks of flour remain. Be very careful not to overmix, as this can lead to tough cookies. Finally, fold in the mini semi-sweet chocolate chips.
- 4. Assemble Your Brookie Bars
Pour or spread the brownie batter evenly into your prepared 9×9-inch pan. Then, using two spoons, drop small dollops or balls of the cookie dough over the brownie layer. The key here is to alternate and distribute the cookie dough as evenly as possible. The smaller the dollops, the more beautiful and marbled the “brookie” look will be. Use an offset spatula or the back of a spoon to gently spread and swirl the layers, ensuring you get both fudgy brownie and chewy cookie in every irresistible bite.
- 5. Bake the Brookies to Perfection
Place the pan in your preheated oven and bake for 50-55 minutes. Baking times can vary depending on your oven, so start checking around the 50-minute mark. To test for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center of the bars. If it comes out with moist crumbs (not wet batter), your brookies are ready. Remember, they will continue to set as they cool, so a slightly gooey center is perfect for that fudgy texture.
- 6. Cool and Serve
Remove the pan from the oven and let the brookies cool completely on a wire rack before slicing. I know it’s hard to wait, but allowing them to cool thoroughly is crucial for clean, neat slices. Once cooled, lift the bars out using the parchment paper overhang and slice into squares. Serve them at room temperature, or for an extra special treat, warm them slightly and add a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Enjoy the ultimate combination of brownie and cookie!
Expert Baking Tips for Perfect Brookie Bars Every Time
Achieving brookie perfection is all about a few clever tricks and careful attention to detail. Here are my top baking tips to ensure your Brookie Bars turn out absolutely divine:
- Master the Brown Butter: This is a non-negotiable step for truly exceptional cookie dough. Cook your unsalted butter until it turns a beautiful golden-brown and smells nutty. The brown bits at the bottom are where all the flavor is! Just be sure to let it cool slightly (10-15 minutes) before mixing it with your sugars and eggs to avoid scrambling them.
- Room Temperature Ingredients are Key: For the cookie dough, ensure your eggs are at room temperature. This helps them emulsify better with the butter and sugar, creating a smoother, more uniform dough and a more tender, even-textured final bake.
- Don’t Overmix the Cookie Dough: Once you add the flour, mix until just combined and no dry streaks remain. Overmixing develops the gluten too much, which can lead to dense, tough cookies instead of soft, chewy ones.
- Optimal Assembly for the “Brookie” Look: When layering, aim for small, alternating dollops of brownie batter and cookie dough. The smaller the dollops, the easier it is to gently spread and create that beautiful marbled effect, ensuring every bite contains both delicious layers. Use an offset spatula for easy spreading without over-combining the layers.
- The Toothpick Test is Your Friend: For perfect fudginess, insert a toothpick into the center of the bars. If it comes out with moist crumbs (not wet batter), they are done. A few streaks of melted chocolate are perfectly fine and desirable for that gooey factor!
- Embrace a Slightly Underbaked Center: For the ultimate gooey brookies, it’s better to slightly underbake them. They will continue to cook and set as they cool in the pan, resulting in that wonderfully soft, molten center everyone loves.
- Patience Pays Off – Cool Completely: I know it’s incredibly tempting to dive in, but allowing the brookies to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack is essential. This allows them to set properly, making them much easier to slice into clean, defined bars.
- Choose Your Pan Wisely: For crispier edges and a chewier, gooey center, a metal baking pan is often preferred over a glass dish. Metal heats up and cools down more quickly, which can contribute to better texture.
Frequently Asked Questions About Brookie Bars
Got questions about making these delectable Brookie Bars? We’ve got answers!
Q: Can I use a different type of brownie mix or cookie dough recipe?
A: Absolutely! This recipe is incredibly versatile. Feel free to experiment with your favorite brand or flavor of boxed brownie mix – a dark chocolate mix will give a rich, intense brownie, while a milk chocolate one might offer a sweeter profile. If you’re feeling ambitious, you can also substitute the homemade cookie dough with another favorite chocolate chip cookie recipe, or even try adding different mix-ins like nuts, toffee bits, or white chocolate chips to either layer for a personalized touch.
Q: Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted butter for the cookie dough?
A: Yes, you can use salted butter if that’s what you have available. However, since salted butter contains added salt, you might want to adjust the amount of additional salt called for in the cookie dough recipe. I recommend reducing the added salt by about ¼ to ½ teaspoon to prevent the brookies from becoming too salty. Taste the dough before adding all the salt to get a sense of its flavor balance.
Q: How do I know when the brookies are done baking?
A: The baking time can vary depending on your oven and the specific brownie mix used. The best way to check for doneness is to insert a toothpick into the center of the bars. It should come out with moist crumbs attached, but not wet batter. If it comes out completely clean, the brookies might be slightly overbaked, but still delicious! Remember that they will continue to set and firm up as they cool, so a slightly gooey center when hot is ideal for fudgy bars.
Q: Can I add nuts or other mix-ins to my Brookie Bars?
A: Definitely! You can customize your brookies by adding chopped nuts (like walnuts or pecans) to the brownie layer, or extra chocolate varieties (white chocolate, peanut butter chips) to the cookie dough. Just fold them in gently at the end of the mixing process for each respective layer.
Q: How can I achieve clean slices when cutting the bars?
A: The trick to clean slices is patience! Ensure the brookies are completely cooled to room temperature before attempting to cut them. For even cleaner cuts, you can chill them in the refrigerator for 30-60 minutes before slicing. Use a sharp, non-serrated knife and wipe the blade clean with a damp cloth between each cut for the neatest results.
Essential Equipment for Your Kitchen
Having the right tools can make all the difference in your baking experience. Here are five essential kitchen equipment items that will help you create these Brookie Bars and many other delightful treats:
- Stand Mixer or Hand Mixer: A reliable mixer is a game-changer for baking. It makes light work of creaming butter and sugar, whisking eggs, and combining ingredients for both the brownie and cookie batters. While a stand mixer offers convenience, a good hand mixer will certainly get the job done just as effectively.
- Mixing Bowls (Various Sizes): A set of high-quality mixing bowls in different sizes is indispensable. You’ll need at least two: one for the brownie batter and one for the cookie dough (plus a small saucepan for browning butter). Look for sturdy, easy-to-clean bowls that are non-reactive.
- 9×9-inch Baking Pan: This recipe calls for a specific size pan to achieve the ideal thickness for your brookie bars. A light-colored metal pan is generally preferred for even baking, preventing over-browning of the edges.
- Parchment Paper: An absolute baking essential for easy cleanup and preventing sticking. Lining your baking pan with parchment paper, especially with an overhang, makes lifting the entire batch of bars out a breeze, allowing for neat slicing.
- Cooling Rack: Once baked, your brookies need to cool properly. A wire cooling rack allows air to circulate all around the pan, preventing the bottom of the bars from becoming soggy and ensuring even cooling.
- Silicone Spatulas: These versatile tools are perfect for scraping down mixing bowls, folding in dry ingredients (without overmixing), and gently spreading batters. Their flexible, heat-resistant nature makes them a kitchen workhorse.
Storing and Freezing Your Brookie Bars
Proper storage ensures your delicious Brookie Bars stay fresh and enjoyable for as long as possible. Here’s how to keep them perfectly:
Storing
Once your Brookie Bars have cooled completely, transfer them to an airtight container. They can be stored at room temperature for up to 4 days, or in the refrigerator for up to a week. Storing them in the refrigerator can make them even chewier and fudgier, a texture many people enjoy. Always bring them to room temperature (or warm slightly in the microwave) before serving for the best flavor and texture.
Freezing
Brookie Bars freeze wonderfully, making them perfect for meal prep or saving for a future craving! To properly freeze them, ensure they have cooled entirely. You can freeze them whole, or for convenience, slice them into individual squares first. Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in an airtight freezer-safe container or a heavy-duty freezer bag. Try to remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. Label the container with the date. Brookie Bars can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. To thaw, simply transfer them to the refrigerator overnight or let them sit at room temperature for a few hours. A quick zap in the microwave will bring back that freshly baked, warm and gooey deliciousness.
These Brookie Bars are more than just a dessert; they’re a celebration of two beloved classics, brought together in one harmonious, easy-to-make package. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting, this recipe promises delicious results and happy faces. So go ahead, grab your ingredients, and get ready to bake up some magic!
More Delicious Bar & Cookie Recipes You’ll Love:
- Delightful Cherry Cheesecake Cookies
- Easy To Make Firework Blondies
- Very Patriotic Frosted Sugar Cookies
- Easiest Fall Pumpkin Brookies
- The Best Peanut Butter Brookies
- Easy Birthday Brookies Recipe (Brownie + Cookie)
- Red, White, and Blue Sugar Cookie Bars
If you loved these Brookie Bars, don’t forget to leave a 5-star rating and a comment below! I’d love to hear your feedback or answer any questions you have. Follow me on Instagram, Pinterest, and TikTok for more fun and delicious recipes!
Recipe
Ultimate Brownie Mix Brookie Bars
Molly Murphy
Pin Recipe
Ingredients
For the Brookie Bars
- 1 box Ghirardelli dark chocolate brownie mix or your preferred brand (plus ingredients needed for mix)
- ¾ cup unsalted butter for the cookie layer
- ½ cup packed brown sugar
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg room temperature
- 1 egg yolk room temperature
- 1 Tablespoon pure vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch
- ¾ teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ cup mini semi-sweet chocolate chips
Instructions
For the Brookie Bars
-
Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Line a 9×9-inch (23×23 cm) baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on two sides for easy removal. Lightly spray the parchment paper with non-stick cooking spray. Set aside.
-
Prepare the boxed brownie mix according to the package instructions. This typically involves combining the mix with eggs, oil, and water. Stir until well combined and smooth. Set aside.
-
In a small saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Continue cooking, stirring occasionally, until the butter turns a light golden brown color and has a nutty aroma (about 3-4 minutes). Be careful not to burn it. Remove from heat and transfer to a heatproof bowl to cool for 10-15 minutes.
-
In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, baking powder, and salt until well combined.
-
In a separate medium mixing bowl, combine the cooled brown butter with the brown sugar and granulated sugar. Using a whisk, mix until well combined and creamy, about 30 seconds.
-
Next, whisk in the large egg and then the egg yolk, one at a time. Mix vigorously for about 30 seconds after each addition. This step helps create a beautiful shine on the cookie layer. Stir in the pure vanilla extract.
-
With a rubber spatula, gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until just combined and no streaks of flour remain. Fold in the mini semi-sweet chocolate chips. Do not overmix.
-
Pour or spread the brownie batter evenly into the prepared pan. Using two spoons, drop small dollops or balls of the cookie dough over the brownie layer, alternating between the two. The smaller the dollops, the better for creating that signature marbled brookie look. Try to evenly distribute both layers. Gently use an offset spatula to slightly swirl or spread the layers without completely mixing them.
-
Bake for 50-55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with moist crumbs (not wet batter). Baking time may vary by oven.
-
Remove from the oven and let the brookies cool completely in the pan on a wire rack before slicing. This is crucial for clean cuts.
-
Once cooled, lift the entire slab of brookies out of the pan using the parchment paper overhang. Slice into 16 squares and enjoy the irresistible deliciousness of your homemade Brookie Bars!