Cosmic Brownie Cookies

There’s something magical about Cosmic Brownie Cookies that captures the essence of childhood nostalgia while delivering an indulgent chocolate experience. With their rich flavor, chewy texture, and delightful topping of cosmic brownie sprinkles, these cookies are a perfect blend of a brownie and a cookie—two beloved treats in one!

this recipe

What You’ll Need for Cosmic Brownie Cookies

Complete Ingredients List

• 1 cup salted butter, melted
• 1 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 3/4 cup light brown sugar
• 2 tsp vanilla extract
• 2 eggs, room temperature
• 1 2/3 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 tsp corn starch
• 1 cup cocoa powder
• 1 tsp baking soda
• 1/2 tsp kosher salt
• 8 oz semi-sweet chocolate
• 3/4 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract (for ganache)
• 1 cup cosmic brownie sprinkles

Ingredient Substitutions & Alternatives

• Gluten-free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
• Dairy-free: Use vegan butter and coconut cream for the ganache.
• Nut allergies: Ensure the sprinkles and chocolate are nut-free; consider using sunbutter in place of butter for added health benefits.
• Flavor variations: For a twist on flavor, try adding in chopped nuts, swirling in peanut butter, or experimenting with different types of chocolate chips like white or milk chocolate.

How to Make Cosmic Brownie Cookies

Creating Cosmic Brownie Cookies is a straightforward yet rewarding process. Follow these detailed steps for a cookie experience that’s crafted from love and chocolate.

Step 1: Cream Together Your Sugars and Butter

In the bowl of a stand mixer, start by combining the melted salted butter, granulated sugar, light brown sugar, and vanilla extract. Mix on medium speed for about 1 minute until the mixture is smooth and well incorporated. This step creates a fluffy base for your cookies, ensuring a chewy texture that pairs well with the rich chocolate.

Step 2: Add Eggs

Next, add two room-temperature eggs to your mixture. Make sure they are at room temperature, as this helps create a uniform batter. Mix on low speed until the eggs are fully incorporated. This process is crucial, as eggs provide the structure for your cookies.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, corn starch, cocoa powder, baking soda, and kosher salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture using the stand mixer on low speed. Mix just until everything is combined—be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to tougher cookies.

Step 4: Chill the Dough

Once your dough is combined, line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Using a medium-sized cookie dough scoop (approximately 2-2.5 tablespoons), scoop out 20 cookies and place them evenly on the prepared sheet. It’s beneficial to refrigerate the cookie dough for about 30 minutes. Chilling helps the cookies maintain their shape while baking and enhances their flavor.

Step 5: Bake the Cookies

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). After the cookie dough has chilled for half an hour, space each cookie about 2 inches apart on the lined baking sheet. Bake in the preheated oven for 9-10 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when the edges are just set, even if the centers look a bit underbaked. They will continue to cook on the baking sheet after being taken out of the oven.

Step 6: Cool the Cookies

Once baked, let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for about 3 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Cooling them on the rack will ensure they don’t become soggy and allows for further air circulation for even cooling.

Step 7: Make the Ganache

While your cookies are cooling, it’s time to make the delicious ganache that tops these treats. Break the semi-sweet chocolate into small pieces and place them in a heatproof bowl. In a small pot, heat the heavy cream over medium heat until it begins to simmer—don’t let it boil! Once simmering, pour the cream over the chocolate pieces and let it sit for about 5 minutes, allowing the chocolate to melt.

Step 8: Whisk Until Smooth

After 5 minutes, add the additional 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract to the bowl and whisk until the ganache is completely smooth and glossy. Allow the ganache to cool for 15-30 minutes or until it reaches a spreadable consistency.

Step 9: Decorate the Cookies

Once the cookies have fully cooled and the ganache is ready, spread 2-3 tablespoons of the ganache on top of each cookie. Be generous—you want that rich chocolatey goodness to shine! Top with cosmic brownie sprinkles for a fun and colorful finish. After decorating, you can serve them immediately or refrigerate to allow the ganache to set completely.

Serving Suggestions for Cosmic Brownie Cookies

How to Serve Cosmic Brownie Cookies

Cosmic Brownie Cookies can be enjoyed warm, chilled, or at room temperature, making them a versatile dessert option. When serving, have them at room temperature for a soft, chewy texture that everybody loves.

For presentation, you might stack several cookies on a decorative plate or place them in a clear container to showcase their beautiful sprinkles. Consider pairing them with a glass of cold milk, coffee, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an added indulgence that balances the richness of these cookies.

Perfect Pairings & Toppings

In addition to the cosmic brownie sprinkles, you can elevate the presentation and flavor of your cookies by drizzling melted white chocolate over the top or adding a scoop of your favorite ice cream alongside. Fresh berries can also provide a refreshing contrast to the sweetness.

Serve these cookies at birthday parties, family gatherings, or as an after-dinner treat to delight your guests and leave lasting memories.

Storing & Preserving Cosmic Brownie Cookies

Best Storage Methods

To store your Cosmic Brownie Cookies effectively, place them in an airtight container at room temperature if you plan to consume them within a few days (up to a week). If they’ll be kept for longer, they can be refrigerated to prolong freshness.

The ganache may soften a bit at room temperature, so you may choose to refrigerate the cookies for a firmer topping. If you’re in a warmer climate, refrigeration may be best to maintain the consistency of the ganache.

Reheating or Freezing Tips

For optimal texture, if you want to enjoy a cookie straight from the freezer, let it sit at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes, allowing it to soften slightly. If you prefer a warm cookie, pop them in the microwave for about 10 seconds, but be cautious not to overheat them as this may dry them out.

For long-term storage, freeze the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once they’re solid, transfer them to an airtight container for up to three months.

Tips for Perfect Cosmic Brownie Cookies Every Time

Avoid These Common Mistakes

1. Overmixing the Dough: After adding the flour, mix until just incorporated. Overmixing can result in tough cookies.
2. Improper Measuring of Ingredients: Ensure accurate measurement, especially of flour and cocoa powder, to avoid dry or dense cookies. Use the spoon-and-level method for precise measurements.
3. Skipping the Chilling Step: Chilling the dough adds to the texture and prevents spreading.

Helpful Tricks for Success

1. Use Quality Chocolate: The chocolate you choose for both the dough and ganache can significantly influence flavor. Opt for high-quality semi-sweet or dark chocolate for the richest taste.
2. Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure that eggs are room temperature; they incorporate better, leading to a uniform dough.
3. Experiment with Mix-Ins: Don’t hesitate to add your favorite treats to the dough, such as chocolate chips, nuts, or even crushed-up candy bars for added texture and flavor.

Fun Variations of Cosmic Brownie Cookies

Flavor Variations or Recipe Twists

1. Nutty Delight: Add chopped walnuts or pecans into the cookie dough for a delicious crunch.
2. Peanut Butter Swirl: Swirl in some peanut butter or Nutella into the dough for a delightful chocolate-peanut butter combination.
3. Mint Chocolate: Incorporate mint extract and top with thin mints for a festive twist.

Dietary-Friendly Adjustments

• Vegan Option: Swap the butter for a plant-based alternative, use flaxseed meal mixed with water in place of eggs, and use coconut cream in your ganache.
• Keto or Low-Sugar: Substitute granulated sugar and brown sugar with monk fruit or erythritol and use almond flour instead of all-purpose flour.
• Paleo: Try using coconut flour and a combination of coconut sugar for a paleo-friendly adaptation.

FAQs

What If My Cosmic Brownie Cookies Don’t Turn Out Right?

If your cookies come out too dry, it may be due to measuring errors or overbaking. Ensure proper measuring techniques and monitor baking time closely. If they are too moist or if the ganache is runny, this could be due to an error in the ganache preparation; ensure the chocolate is fully melted and combined with the cream properly.

Can I Prepare This in Advance?

Absolutely! You can prepare a few components in advance. The cookie dough can be refrigerated for up to 3 days before baking. Additionally, the chocolate ganache can be made a day ahead and stored in the fridge; just reheat it gently before spreading on the cookies.

What Ingredients Can I Swap?

If certain ingredients are not available, consider the following substitutions: Instead of semi-sweet chocolate, use dark chocolate or milk chocolate based on your preference. For a gluten-free option, almond flour or oat flour works as well, while maple syrup can replace granulated sugar for a natural sweetener.

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