If there is one dessert that can ignite the holiday spirit in everyone, it’s the delightful Double-Chocolate Holiday Cookie Dough Brownie Gems. This decadent treat combines the comforting richness of brownies with the playful sweetness of edible cookie dough, making it a show-stopping dessert for any festive occasion. The blend of dark chocolate and creamy cookie dough layered together creates an irresistible harmony of flavors that everyone will love. Whether you’ll be entertaining guests or simply indulging yourself, these brownie gems are sure to impress!
What sets this recipe apart is its versatility and simplicity. With just a handful of ingredients and easy steps, you can whip up a batch of these sweet delights in no time. You’ll find that the combination of a fudgy brownie base topped with a luscious layer of cookie dough is hard to resist. And let’s face it; who can say no to chocolate? By preparing this classic treat with a twist, you’ll surely make it a new tradition in your family or among friends!
Why You’ll Love This Double-Chocolate Holiday Cookie Dough Brownie Gems
- Decadent Flavor: The rich chocolate and creamy cookie dough provide an explosion of flavor that will tantalize your taste buds.
- Simple Ingredients: Made with common pantry staples, this recipe is accessible to anyone, no matter your cooking expertise.
- Perfect for Sharing: These bite-sized treats are ideal for parties, festive occasions, or cozy nights in with family.
- Customization: You can easily customize the cookie dough or brownie base by adding nuts, different chocolate varieties, or your favorite candy.
Preparation Phase & Tools to Use
Before diving into this scrumptious recipe, it’s essential to prepare your kitchen and gather all necessary tools and ingredients. Ensure your workspace is clean and organized to make the cooking process smoother. You will need measuring cups, a mixing bowl, a whisk for combining ingredients, and a spatula for spreading the layers. An 8×8-inch baking pan lined with parchment paper will help prevent sticking and is perfect for baking the brownie base.
Your oven should be preheated to 350°F (175°C) to create an ideal baking climate. Ensure you also have a fridge ready for chilling the cookie dough layer, which is critical for the final texture of your brownie gems. Once the workspace is organized and prepared, you’re set for a delightful baking adventure!
Ingredients
- For the Brownie Base:
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ⅓ cup cocoa powder
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- For the Edible Cookie Dough Layer:
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- ½ cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup heat-treated all-purpose flour
- ½ cup mini chocolate chips
- For the Chocolate Coating:
- 1½ cups dark chocolate chips
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Brownie Base
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and preparing an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper. This will ensure your brownies come out easily without sticking. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the melted butter and granulated sugar until smooth and well-combined. Follow this by adding the eggs and vanilla extract, mixing until everything is fully incorporated. Sift in the cocoa powder, all-purpose flour, salt, and baking powder while whisking gently until the batter is just combined.
Step 2: Bake the Brownies
Once mixed, pour the brownie batter into the lined baking pan. Spread it evenly through the pan, ensuring there are no air bubbles trapped underneath. Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 18–22 minutes, or until the edges set and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out mostly clean. After baking, allow the brownies to cool completely before adding the cookie dough layer – this is a crucial step for achieving a perfect texture!
Step 3: Prepare the Edible Cookie Dough
Now, while the brownies are cooling, let’s whip up the scrumptious edible cookie dough. In a mixing bowl, beat the softened unsalted butter with brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. Don’t rush this step; mixing it thoroughly will give your cookie dough a heavenly texture. Next, add the milk and vanilla extract to the bowl and blend them well. Gradually mix in the heat-treated flour until smooth, and gently fold in the mini chocolate chips. This rich cookie dough will be delightfully soft yet firm enough to sit on top of the brownie base.
Step 4: Layer the Cookie Dough
Once your brownies have completely cooled, spread the cookie dough evenly over the top using a spatula. Ensure the cookie dough layer is distributed uniformly to achieve that perfect combo in every bite. After spreading, place the whole pan into the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the cookie dough to firm up. This chilling process makes the cutting and handling of the brownie gems much easier.
Step 5: Coat with Chocolate
While the cookie dough is chilling, take your time to prepare the chocolate coating. In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the dark chocolate chips along with the coconut oil for that glossy finish. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between until everything is melted and smooth. Once the chocolate is ready, remove the pan from the fridge and cut the layered dessert into bite-sized squares. Dip each square into the chocolate coating, allowing any excess to drip off before placing them back onto a parchment-lined tray. Finally, chill them once more until the coating is set!
Variations
- Protein: Add a scoop of your favorite protein powder to the brownie batter for a healthier twist.
- Vegetables: Combine in some finely grated zucchini or carrot for an extra nutrient boost in the brownie layer.
- Spices: Experiment with spices like cinnamon or nutmeg in the brownie base for a warm, cozy flavor profile.
Cooking Notes
- Make sure the flour used for the cookie dough is heat-treated to ensure safety since it won’t be cooked.
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container; these brownie gems can last up to a week in the refrigerator!
Serving Suggestions
- Serve these delightful brownie gems with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an impressive dessert.
- Pair with a hot cup of coffee or tea for a sweet afternoon treat.
Tips
- For a gourmet touch, sprinkle some sea salt on top of the chocolate coating before it sets.
- Keep the brownie gems chilled until you’re ready to serve; they taste best slightly chilled!
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 22 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes (including cooling and chilling)
Nutritional Information
- Calories: Approximately 150 per gem
- Protein: 2g
- Sodium: 50mg
FAQs
Can I make the brownie gems ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare and assemble these brownie gems a day in advance. Just store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve.
What can I substitute for dark chocolate chips?
If you prefer milk chocolate, feel free to use that instead! The taste may be sweeter but equally delicious.
Can I freeze these brownie gems?
Absolutely! These brownie gems freeze well. Just make sure they are wrapped securely to maintain freshness.
How do I know when the brownies are done baking?
Your brownies are done when the edges appear firm, and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.
Conclusion
Indulging in Double-Chocolate Holiday Cookie Dough Brownie Gems will undoubtedly be a highlight of your holiday season. This delightful recipe seamlessly combines rich, fudgy brownies with sweet cookie dough, all enveloped in a luscious chocolate coating. The ease of preparation and the joy these treats bring make them not just a dessert but an experience to share with loved ones. So, whether it’s for a holiday gathering or a casual afternoon indulgence, make sure to try these brownie gems! Be sure to come back and share your own variations or comments; we’d love to hear how they turned out for you!
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Double-Chocolate Holiday Cookie Dough Brownie Gems
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
Description
Indulging in Double-Chocolate Holiday Cookie Dough Brownie Gems will undoubtedly be a highlight of your holiday season.
Ingredients
- For the Brownie Base:
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ⅓ cup cocoa powder
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- For the Edible Cookie Dough Layer:
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- ½ cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup heat-treated all-purpose flour
- ½ cup mini chocolate chips
- For the Chocolate Coating:
- 1½ cups dark chocolate chips
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil
Instructions
- Prepare the Brownie Base: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and preparing an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper. This will ensure your brownies come out easily without sticking. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the melted butter and granulated sugar until smooth and well-combined. Follow this by adding the eggs and vanilla extract, mixing until everything is fully incorporated. Sift in the cocoa powder, all-purpose flour, salt, and baking powder while whisking gently until the batter is just combined.
- Bake the Brownies: Once mixed, pour the brownie batter into the lined baking pan. Spread it evenly through the pan, ensuring there are no air bubbles trapped underneath. Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 18–22 minutes, or until the edges set and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out mostly clean. After baking, allow the brownies to cool completely before adding the cookie dough layer – this is a crucial step for achieving a perfect texture!
- Prepare the Edible Cookie Dough: Now, while the brownies are cooling, let’s whip up the scrumptious edible cookie dough. In a mixing bowl, beat the softened unsalted butter with brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. Don’t rush this step; mixing it thoroughly will give your cookie dough a heavenly texture. Next, add the milk and vanilla extract to the bowl and blend them well. Gradually mix in the heat-treated flour until smooth, and gently fold in the mini chocolate chips. This rich cookie dough will be delightfully soft yet firm enough to sit on top of the brownie base.
- Layer the Cookie Dough: Once your brownies have completely cooled, spread the cookie dough evenly over the top using a spatula. Ensure the cookie dough layer is distributed uniformly to achieve that perfect combo in every bite. After spreading, place the whole pan into the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the cookie dough to firm up. This chilling process makes the cutting and handling of the brownie gems much easier.
- Coat with Chocolate: While the cookie dough is chilling, take your time to prepare the chocolate coating. In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the dark chocolate chips along with the coconut oil for that glossy finish. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between until everything is melted and smooth. Once the chocolate is ready, remove the pan from the fridge and cut the layered dessert into bite-sized squares. Dip each square into the chocolate coating, allowing any excess to drip off before placing them back onto a parchment-lined tray. Finally, chill them once more until the coating is set!
Notes
Store any leftovers in an airtight container; these brownie gems can last up to a week in the refrigerator!
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 22 minutes
- Category: Dessert
Nutrition
- Calories: Approximately 150 per gem
- Sodium: 50 mg
- Protein: 2 g