Brookies combine the best of both worlds—chewy brownies and soft, gooey cookies—in one irresistible treat. Using Ghirardelli Brownie Mix makes this classic dessert even easier to whip up without sacrificing that rich chocolate flavor we all crave. It’s a perfect way to satisfy multiple cravings at once.
We love how simple this recipe is, yet it delivers bakery-quality results right from our own kitchen. Whether you’re baking for a crowd or just treating yourself, these brookies offer a delightful texture contrast that keeps everyone coming back for more. Plus, with Ghirardelli’s trusted mix, you get consistent, fudgy brownies every time.
Ingredients
To create the perfect Brookie with Ghirardelli Brownie Mix, we combine two iconic flavors: rich fudgy brownies and soft chewy cookies. Below are the precise ingredients we use to achieve this delectable texture contrast and exceptional taste.
Ghirardelli Brownie Mix Ingredients
For consistently moist and chocolaty brownies, rely on the following ingredients aligned with the Ghirardelli Brownie Mix package guidelines:
| Ingredient | Quantity | Preparation Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Ghirardelli Brownie Mix | 1 box (18.3 oz) | Use the classic double chocolate mix for best flavor |
| Eggs | 2 large | Room temperature |
| Water | 1/4 cup (60 ml) | Cold or room temperature |
| Vegetable Oil | 1/2 cup (120 ml) | Neutral flavor oil like canola or sunflower |
Cookie Dough Ingredients
We prepare a simple yet tasty cookie dough to layer over or under the brownie batter for that perfect brookie experience:
| Ingredient | Quantity | Preparation Notes |
|---|---|---|
| All-purpose Flour | 1 cup (120 g) | Sifted |
| Baking Soda | 1/4 teaspoon | Fresh and active |
| Salt | 1/4 teaspoon | |
| Unsalted Butter | 1/2 cup (113 g) | Softened at room temperature |
| Granulated Sugar | 1/4 cup (50 g) | |
| Brown Sugar | 1/2 cup (110 g) | Packed |
| Vanilla Extract | 1 teaspoon | Pure extract preferred |
| Egg | 1 large | Room temperature |
| Semi-sweet Chocolate Chips | 1 cup (175 g) | Can substitute with chunks for texture |
These ingredients provide a rich foundation for our brookies, ensuring a smooth fusion of fudgy brownies and chewy cookies with every bite.
Equipment Needed
To create our irresistible Brookie Recipe with Ghirardelli Brownie Mix, having the right equipment ensures smooth preparation and perfect results every time. Here’s what we recommend:
- Mixing Bowls: Use at least two large mixing bowls — one for the brownie batter and another for the cookie dough. This separation keeps flavors balanced and simplifies mixing.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements guarantee consistency. We suggest standard sets for dry and wet ingredients.
- Electric Mixer or Whisk: For creaming butter and sugars in the cookie dough and thoroughly blending the brownie mix, an electric hand mixer speeds up the process and improves texture.
- Spatula and Wooden Spoon: Use a rubber spatula for scraping bowls clean and a wooden spoon or sturdy spoon for folding ingredients gently.
- Baking Pan: A 9×13-inch baking pan works best for even baking and classic brookie thickness.
- Parchment Paper or Nonstick Spray: Lining the pan with parchment paper or spraying it prevents sticking and helps create clean edges.
- Cooling Rack: After baking, transfer the brookies to a cooling rack to cool evenly and maintain texture.
- Optional: Food Scale: For precise ingredient measurement especially when baking to perfection.
| Equipment | Purpose | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Mixing Bowls | Separate mixing of brownie and cookie dough | Large size recommended |
| Measuring Cups/Spoons | Accurate ingredient measurement | Essential for recipe success |
| Electric Mixer/Whisk | Efficient mixing of ingredients | Hand mixer preferred |
| Spatula & Wooden Spoon | Mixing and scraping bowls | Flexible spatula ideal |
| 9×13-inch Baking Pan | Baking brookie layers evenly | Standard size fits recipe |
| Parchment Paper/Nonstick Spray | Prevents sticking | Ensures easy brookie removal |
| Cooling Rack | Even cooling after baking | Preserves crisp edges |
| Food Scale (optional) | Precise measurement | Ideal for baking accuracy |
Remember: having these tools ready before starting helps us move seamlessly through each recipe step, ensuring the perfect fusion of fudgy brownies and chewy cookies in our brookies.
Prep Work
Before we dive into mixing and baking, proper Prep Work is crucial to achieve the perfect brookie texture. Let’s ensure our ingredients and tools are ready for smooth preparation.
Preparing the Brownie Batter
We start with the base of our brookie — the rich and fudgy brownie batter made from Ghirardelli Brownie Mix. Follow these steps to prepare it flawlessly:
- Gather Ingredients
- 1 box of Ghirardelli Brownie Mix
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup water
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- Mixing Instructions
- Crack the eggs into a large mixing bowl.
- Add the water and vegetable oil.
- Slowly pour in the Ghirardelli Brownie Mix.
- Using an electric mixer or whisk, blend ingredients at medium speed for about 30 seconds until smooth.
- Avoid over-mixing to keep the batter light and airy.
- Consistency Check
The batter should be thick but pourable. Here’s a quick consistency guide:
| Batter Quality | Description | Desired Outcome |
|---|---|---|
| Too Thin | Runs easily off spoon | May cause flat brownies |
| Perfect | Thick and smooth, pours slowly | Fudgy and moist brownies |
| Too Thick | Stiff, does not spread easily | Dense and chewy texture |
Preparing the Cookie Dough
Next we prepare the cookie dough to complement the brownies with its soft and chewy texture. Follow these steps thoroughly for a balanced brookie:
- Gather Ingredients
- 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup packed brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 large egg
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- Mixing Instructions
- In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
- In a separate large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy, about 2 minutes.
- Beat in the vanilla extract and egg until fully combined.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing at low speed until just combined.
- Fold in the semi-sweet chocolate chips with a spatula to distribute evenly.
- Dough Readiness
The cookie dough should be soft but not sticky. It should hold its shape when scooped:
| Dough Quality | Description | Baking Impact |
|---|---|---|
| Too Wet | Sticky and limp | Cookies may spread too much |
| Perfect | Soft, holds shape when scooped | Chewy and tender texture |
| Too Dry | Crumbly and stiff | Dry and crumbly cookies |
With both brownie batter and cookie dough prepped perfectly, we’re ready to combine and bake our signature Brookie dessert.
Directions
Let’s combine the rich chocolate brownie base with the soft cookie dough to create the perfect Brookie. Follow these steps carefully to achieve the ideal texture and flavor contrast.
Baking the Brownie Layer
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Pour the prepared Ghirardelli Brownie Mix batter into the pan.
- Spread the batter evenly using a spatula ensuring it reaches all corners.
- Bake the brownie layer for 15 minutes. This initial bake sets the base without fully cooking it, allowing the cookie layer to merge perfectly.
Adding the Cookie Dough Layer
- While the brownie layer bakes, prepare the cookie dough as per recipe instructions.
- After 15 minutes, remove the pan from the oven.
- Evenly distribute the cookie dough by dropping spoonfuls or gently pressing it to cover the warm but not hot brownie layer.
- Make sure the cookie dough is spread uniformly but avoid overworking it to maintain its soft and chewy texture.
Baking the Brookie
- Return the pan with both layers to the oven immediately.
- Bake for an additional 25-30 minutes until the cookie dough turns golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with just a few moist crumbs.
- Remove the Brookie from the oven.
- Let it cool in the pan for at least 30 minutes on a cooling rack. Cooling allows the layers to set for clean slicing.
- Cut into squares and serve warm or at room temperature to enjoy the delicious contrast of fudgy brownies and chewy cookies.
| Step | Temperature | Time | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pre-bake brownie layer | 350°F (175°C) | 15 minutes | Sets the base without full cooking |
| Bake combined layers | 350°F (175°C) | 25-30 minutes | Cook cookie layer to golden brown |
| Cooling | Room temp | 30 minutes | Ensures clean slices |
Cooling and Serving
After baking our Brookie Recipe with Ghirardelli Brownie Mix, proper cooling is essential to lock in the rich flavors and create those clean, indulgent layers of fudgy brownie and chewy cookie. Here are the steps we follow to ensure perfect results:
- Cool in the pan for 20-30 minutes: Allow the brookie to cool at room temperature in the 9×13-inch pan. This resting time helps the brookie set firmly so it won’t crumble when sliced.
- Transfer to a cooling rack: After initial cooling, carefully lift the brookie from the pan using parchment paper edges or a spatula. Place it on a wire cooling rack for at least 30 more minutes. This step prevents moisture buildup and preserves the contrasting textures.
- Slice with a sharp knife: Use a clean sharp knife to cut the brookie into squares or rectangles. For clean cuts, wipe the knife between slices.
| Cooling Step | Duration | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Cool in pan | 20-30 minutes | Firm up structure for cutting |
| Cool on wire rack | 30+ minutes | Prevent sogginess, maintain texture |
For serving, we recommend:
- Serving brookies slightly warm or at room temperature to enjoy the fudgy and chewy texture in every bite.
- Accompanying with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of chocolate sauce for extra indulgence.
- Storing leftover brookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.
“Cooling is not just a step, it is the key to our brookie’s perfect texture and presentation.”
Following these cooling and serving tips guarantees a bakery-quality experience straight from our kitchen to yours.
Make-Ahead Tips
To enjoy Brookie Recipe with Ghirardelli Brownie Mix at your convenience, proper make-ahead preparation is essential. Here are the best strategies to ensure your brookies maintain their rich fudgy texture and delightful chewy cookie layer when made in advance.
Preparing Ahead: Storage Options
- Bake in advance: Complete the full baking process as described. Allow brookies to cool completely before storing.
- Freeze unbaked layers: Separate brownie batter and cookie dough can be prepared and frozen individually to save time later.
- Freeze after baking: Cut brookies into squares, wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap, then place in an airtight container or freezer bag.
Step-by-Step Guidelines
| Step | Instructions | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Bake and cool | Bake brookies fully, cool for 1 hour at room temperature before storing | Prevents condensation and sogginess |
| Store at room temp | Keep brookies in an airtight container for up to 3 days | Ideal if consuming within a short timeframe |
| Refrigerate | Use an airtight container, store for up to 7 days | Enhances freshness for longer storage |
| Freeze (unbaked) | Portion brownie batter and cookie dough, wrap tightly, refrigerate or freeze up to 1 month | Thaw in fridge overnight before baking |
| Freeze (baked) | Wrap pieces individually, freeze up to 3 months | Thaw at room temperature before serving |
Tips for Optimal Texture and Flavor
- When storing baked brookies, ensure they are fully cooled to prevent moisture buildup.
- For best results, reheat slightly in a microwave (10-15 seconds) or oven (250°F for 5-7 minutes) to restore the soft gooey quality.
- If freezing unbaked dough, thaw it slowly in the refrigerator to maintain texture and avoid separation of fats.
- Label containers with the preparation date to track freshness.
“Make-ahead preparation is a game changer. We can enjoy freshly baked brookies with Ghirardelli Brownie Mix anytime without compromising the irresistible fudginess and chewy cookie bite.”
Following these Make-Ahead Tips lets us effortlessly plan for gatherings or enjoy brookies whenever craving strikes, all while preserving the distinctive texture contrast and chocolate richness our recipe delivers.
Conclusion
Brookies made with Ghirardelli Brownie Mix offer a perfect balance of rich chocolate and chewy cookie goodness that’s hard to resist. With straightforward steps and reliable ingredients, we can easily create a dessert that impresses every time.
Whether for a special occasion or a simple treat, these brookies deliver consistent texture and flavor that keep everyone coming back for more. Having the right prep and storage tips ensures our brookies stay fresh and delicious whenever we’re ready to enjoy them.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are brookies?
Brookies are a delicious dessert combining brownies and cookies into one treat, featuring a fudgy brownie base topped with chewy cookie dough.
Can I use any brownie mix for brookies?
While you can use various mixes, Ghirardelli Brownie Mix is recommended for its rich chocolate flavor and reliable fudgy texture.
What ingredients do I need to make brookies?
You need Ghirardelli Brownie Mix, eggs, water, vegetable oil for brownies, plus flour, baking soda, salt, butter, sugars, vanilla, an egg, and chocolate chips for the cookie dough.
What equipment is essential for making brookies?
Essential tools include mixing bowls, measuring cups and spoons, an electric mixer or whisk, a 9×13-inch baking pan, parchment paper or nonstick spray, and a cooling rack.
How do I prepare the batter and dough for brookies?
Prepare a thick but pourable brownie batter and a soft, scoopable cookie dough that holds shape, ensuring balance between fudgy and chewy textures.
What is the baking process for brookies?
Bake the brownie batter at 350°F for 15 minutes, then add cookie dough on top and bake for an additional 25-30 minutes until golden brown.
How important is cooling brookies before serving?
Cooling is crucial—let brookies cool in the pan for 20-30 minutes, then on a rack for 30 minutes to prevent sogginess and enable clean slices.
How should I store leftover brookies?
Store brookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week to maintain freshness.
Can brookies be made ahead of time?
Yes, brookies can be baked in advance, or layers frozen before or after baking, with proper reheating to preserve their texture and flavor.
What are some serving suggestions for brookies?
Enjoy brookies slightly warm or at room temperature, optionally with vanilla ice cream or chocolate sauce for an extra indulgence.