If you’re looking for a delicious dessert that combines the richness of brownies and the soft texture of cookies, then you’re in for a treat. Our brownie mix cookie recipe is the perfect blend of two favorite desserts, delivering the ultimate indulgence with minimal effort.
Whether you’re baking for a party or simply satisfying a craving, this recipe is guaranteed to hit the spot. Let’s dive into the step-by-step guide to creating the best brownie mix cookies from scratch using a boxed brownie mix.
Why Choose a Brownie Mix for Cookies?
Brownie mix isn’t just for brownies! Its deep, chocolatey flavor makes it a versatile base for cookies as well. By using a boxed mix, you’ll cut down on prep time, while still creating soft, chewy, and utterly delicious cookies.
The best part? Brownie mix cookies deliver the same fudgy texture as brownies but with the convenience and hand-held ease of cookies.
Ingredients for Brownie Mix Cookies
To create the perfect batch of brownie mix cookies, you’ll need the following ingredients. These are pantry staples, making this recipe not only easy but also budget-friendly:
- 1 box of brownie mix (approximately 18.3 oz.)
- 2 large eggs
- 1/3 cup of vegetable oil (or melted butter for a richer flavor)
- 1 tablespoon of water
- 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract (optional but recommended for enhanced flavor)
- 1/2 cup of chocolate chips (optional for an extra chocolate boost)
- 1/4 cup of walnuts or pecans (optional for added crunch)
Step-by-Step Instructions for Brownie Mix Cookies
1. Preheat the Oven and Prep the Baking Sheet
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven is heating up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper or use a non-stick spray to prevent the cookies from sticking.
2. Mix the Ingredients Together
In a large mixing bowl, combine the brownie mix, eggs, vegetable oil, and water. If you’re looking for a richer cookie, swap the vegetable oil for melted butter. Stir until all ingredients are well incorporated. The dough should be thick and sticky, similar to the consistency of regular cookie dough.
For an extra kick of sweetness and texture, fold in the chocolate chips and/or nuts. The chocolate chips will make your cookies even more decadent, while the nuts will add a satisfying crunch.
3. Scoop the Dough onto the Baking Sheet
Using a cookie scoop or a tablespoon, drop rounded balls of dough onto your prepared baking sheet. Space them about 2 inches apart, as these cookies will spread slightly as they bake.
4. Bake the Cookies
Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 9-12 minutes. The baking time may vary slightly depending on your oven, so keep an eye on the cookies. They should have firm edges but still be soft in the center when you take them out of the oven. Avoid over-baking to ensure that your cookies remain chewy and fudgy.
5. Let the Cookies Cool
Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. Allow them to cool completely, though it’s hard to resist eating one while they’re still warm!
Tips for Perfect Brownie Mix Cookies
- Don’t Overmix the Dough: Overmixing can result in tough cookies, so be gentle when combining the ingredients.
- Add Flavors and Mix-ins: While chocolate chips and nuts are popular options, you can get creative by adding M&M’s, peanut butter chips, or even a dash of cinnamon for a unique twist.
- Keep an Eye on Baking Time: The secret to achieving that perfectly fudgy center is not overbaking. The cookies will continue to cook slightly as they cool on the baking sheet.
Why These Brownie Mix Cookies Will Become Your Go-To Recipe
These brownie mix cookies are a game changer for several reasons:
- Time-Saving: Using a boxed brownie mix cuts down on prep time without sacrificing flavor. You’ll have fresh, homemade cookies in under 30 minutes.
- Versatile: This recipe is extremely adaptable. Whether you like your cookies loaded with chocolate or prefer a nutty crunch, you can tweak the ingredients to suit your taste.
- Minimal Ingredients: With just a few pantry staples, you can whip up a batch of cookies at any time, making this recipe ideal for last-minute gatherings or unexpected cravings.
- Perfect Texture: The result is a cookie with crisp edges and a soft, chewy center. It combines the best qualities of brownies and cookies, making it hard to resist.
Customizing Your Brownie Mix Cookies
While the classic brownie mix cookie recipe is a surefire hit, there are endless ways to make it your own. Here are a few ideas for adding your personal touch:
1. Double Chocolate Brownie Mix Cookies
For true chocolate lovers, double up on the chocolate! Add dark chocolate chips and drizzle melted chocolate over the cookies after they’ve cooled for an extra-rich treat.
2. Peanut Butter Brownie Mix Cookies
Combine the rich flavor of chocolate with peanut butter for a winning combination. Swirl in a few tablespoons of peanut butter into the dough before baking or top the cookies with a peanut butter glaze.
3. S’mores Brownie Mix Cookies
Channel the taste of summer by adding crushed graham crackers and mini marshmallows to your dough. Once baked, you’ll have s’mores brownie mix cookies that are ooey-gooey and deliciously nostalgic.
4. Mint Chocolate Brownie Mix Cookies
For a refreshing twist, add mint extract to the dough and sprinkle crushed peppermint candies on top. These make for a festive holiday treat that’s both indulgent and refreshing.
Storing and Freezing Brownie Mix Cookies
If you have any leftover cookies (though we doubt you will), store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. If you’d like to prepare the dough ahead of time or save some for later, you can also freeze the cookie dough.
Simply scoop the dough into balls, place them on a baking sheet, and freeze them for about 30 minutes. Once they’re firm, transfer the dough balls to a freezer-safe bag or container. When you’re ready to bake, there’s no need to thaw—just bake the cookies for an extra 1-2 minutes.
Conclusion
This brownie mix cookie recipe is everything you could want in a dessert: simple, quick, and absolutely delicious. The combination of chocolatey richness and chewy cookie texture is a match made in heaven.
Whether you’re an experienced baker or just starting out, this recipe guarantees results that will impress your friends, family, and most importantly, your taste buds.
So, grab that box of brownie mix sitting in your pantry and whip up a batch of these indulgent cookies today!
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I make the cookies more fudgy and soft?
To get softer and fudgier brownie mix cookies, try the following tips:
Underbake slightly: Bake the cookies until the edges are set, but the centers are still soft. They will continue to cook as they cool.
Add chocolate chips: Folding in extra chocolate chips enhances the rich, gooey texture of the cookies.
Use butter instead of oil: Substituting melted butter for oil can add a richer, fudgier flavor to the cookies.
How do I prevent the cookies from spreading too much?
If your cookies are spreading too much, you can:
Chill the dough: Refrigerating the dough for 15-30 minutes before baking helps prevent the cookies from spreading too much.
Check the temperature of the oven: Ensure the oven is fully preheated before putting the cookies in to bake. A properly heated oven will help the cookies set faster and keep their shape.
Can I customize this recipe with other mix-ins?
Absolutely! You can add a variety of mix-ins to your brownie mix cookies, such as:
Peanut butter chips
White chocolate chips
M&Ms
Crushed candy canes (for a holiday twist)
Chopped nuts like pecans, walnuts, or almonds Feel free to experiment and find your favorite combination!
Can I make these cookies without eggs?
Yes, you can make egg-free brownie mix cookies by using egg substitutes. Popular alternatives include:
Flaxseed meal: Mix 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed with 3 tablespoons of water for each egg.
Applesauce: Use 1/4 cup of applesauce to replace one egg.
Commercial egg replacers: Products like Ener-G Egg Replacer can be used according to package instructions.
Can I use a gluten-free brownie mix for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute a gluten-free brownie mix to make gluten-free brownie mix cookies. Ensure that any additional ingredients you use, such as chocolate chips or mix-ins, are also gluten-free. The texture may vary slightly, but the cookies will still be delicious.
What if my dough is too sticky to handle?
Brownie mix cookie dough can sometimes be a bit sticky. If you find it difficult to work with:
Chill the dough: Let the dough chill in the fridge for 15-20 minutes before scooping. This makes it easier to handle.
Use wet hands or a cookie scoop: Dampen your hands or use a cookie scoop to drop the dough onto the baking sheet more easily.
How many cookies does this recipe yield?
The yield depends on the size of your cookies. Typically, using a standard cookie scoop (about 1.5 tablespoons of dough), you can expect to get about 20-24 cookies from a box of brownie mix. If you make larger or smaller cookies, the yield will vary accordingly.
Can I add frosting to my brownie mix cookies?
Absolutely! Adding frosting to your brownie mix cookies takes them to the next level. You can top them with:
Chocolate ganache for an extra-decadent treat.
Cream cheese frosting for a tangy contrast to the sweetness.
Peanut butter frosting to create a delicious chocolate-peanut butter combination.
Can I make vegan brownie mix cookies?
Yes! To make vegan brownie mix cookies, check the ingredients on your boxed brownie mix to ensure it’s vegan-friendly. Replace the eggs with a substitute like flaxseed meal or applesauce, and use a plant-based oil or butter. Be sure to use vegan chocolate chips or other mix-ins if desired.
How can I make my cookies crispier?
For crispier brownie mix cookies, you can:
Bake them a bit longer: Extend the baking time by 1-2 minutes until the edges are crisp and golden.
Use less oil or butter: Reducing the amount of oil or butter by a tablespoon can make for a crisper cookie.