Who doesn’t love the rich, chocolatey goodness of brownies and the chewy perfection of cookies? With Ghirardelli’s brownie mix, we get to enjoy the best of both worlds in one irresistible treat. These brownie cookies are the ultimate indulgence, combining the decadence of brownies with the convenience of a cookie.
Brownie Cookies Recipe Ghirardelli Mix
Transforming Ghirardelli’s brownie mix into delectable brownie cookies is both effortless and highly rewarding. Follow these clear, step-by-step instructions to create rich, chewy, and chocolaty cookies that are sure to impress.
Ingredients
Here’s everything we need to whip up these indulgent cookies:
- 1 package of Ghirardelli Double Chocolate Brownie Mix (18 oz)
- 1/3 cup of vegetable oil
- 2 tablespoons of water
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips (optional for extra gooeyness)
Tools
Let’s gather the tools required for a seamless baking experience:
- Large mixing bowl
- Whisk or spatula
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Cookie scoop or tablespoon
Instructions
- Preheat the oven
Set the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line your baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- Prepare the batter
In a large mixing bowl, pour the Ghirardelli Double Chocolate Brownie Mix. Add vegetable oil, water, and the large egg. Using a whisk or spatula, mix well until the ingredients are fully combined into a thick, sticky batter. If desired, fold in the semi-sweet chocolate chips for a bonus chocolate hit.
- Scoop the dough
Use a cookie scoop or tablespoon to drop spoonfuls of the batter onto the parchment-lined baking sheet. Space each scoop 2 inches apart to allow for spreading.
- Bake the cookies
Place the tray in the preheated oven and bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the edges are set and the tops are slightly glossy. Do not overbake; the cookies will continue to firm up as they cool.
- Cool the cookies
Remove the baking sheet from the oven and allow the cookies to cool on the tray for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Serve and enjoy
Once cooled, enjoy your homemade Ghirardelli brownie cookies with a cold glass of milk or a warm cup of coffee.
Quick Reference Table
| Step | Details | Time |
|---|---|---|
| Preheat Oven | 350°F (175°C) | 5 minutes |
| Mix Ingredients | Combine all items in a bowl | 5 minutes |
| Bake Cookies | Bake in the oven | 10–12 minutes |
| Cool Down | Rest on the tray and rack | 5–10 minutes |
With their irresistibly soft centers and perfectly crispy edges, these brownie cookies will become an instant favorite.
Ingredients
For these irresistible brownie cookies using the Ghirardelli brownie mix, we’ll need just a handful of ingredients to create chewy, chocolatey perfection. Here’s what you’ll gather:
- 1 package of Ghirardelli Brownie Mix (18 oz)
- 1/3 cup vegetable oil, for rich and moist texture
- 2 tablespoons of water, room temperature
- 1 large egg, beaten
- Optional: 1/2 cup Ghirardelli chocolate chips, for extra chocolatey goodness
- Optional: 1/3 cup chopped nuts (e.g., walnuts or pecans), for crunch
Note: The quantity of mix may vary depending on the Ghirardelli brownie mix variant. Always double-check the package for accuracy and adjust accordingly.
Gather these ingredients, and you’re already halfway to baking an incredible batch of brownie cookies. The combination of high-quality Ghirardelli chocolate and simple pantry staples makes this recipe both convenient and indulgent.
Tools And Equipment
To create these irresistible brownie cookies using the Ghirardelli mix, we need the right tools and equipment to ensure smooth preparation and perfect results. Here’s a list of essentials:
Baking Tools:
- Mixing Bowl: A large bowl for combining the brownie mix and wet ingredients.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: For accurately measuring oil, water, and other ingredients.
- Whisk or Spoon: To efficiently mix wet and dry ingredients into a smooth batter.
- Baking Sheet: A flat sheet to bake the cookies evenly.
- Parchment Paper or Silicone Baking Mat: To prevent sticking without needing additional oil or grease.
Shaping and Prepping:
- Cookie Scoop or Spoon: Ideal for portioning the dough into uniform-sized cookies.
- Spatula: Helps transfer cookies to a wire rack for cooling with ease.
Baking Essentials:
- Oven: Preheated to 350°F for consistent baking results.
- Wire Cooling Rack: Provides proper air circulation to cool cookies evenly.
Pro Tip:
For extra indulgence, use a double boiler or microwave-safe bowl to melt additional chocolate for drizzling over the cookies once they cool.
Below is a quick reference table for our essential tools and uses:
| Tool | Usage |
|---|---|
| Mixing Bowl | Combine ingredients to create the batter. |
| Measuring Cups/Spoons | Ensure precise ingredient measurements. |
| Whisk/Spoon | Stir batter to a smooth consistency. |
| Baking Sheet | Provides a flat surface for cookie baking. |
| Parchment Paper/Mat | Prevents sticking and ensures easy cleanup. |
| Cookie Scoop/Spoon | Shapes dough into uniformly sized portions. |
| Spatula | Transfers baked cookies without breaking them. |
| Wire Cooling Rack | Cools cookies evenly while keeping them crisp. |
With these essential tools and equipment, crafting the perfect Ghirardelli brownie cookies becomes a breeze.
Directions
Transforming Ghirardelli Brownie Mix into chewy, delectable brownie cookies is straightforward. Follow these easy steps to create a batch of irresistible treats.
Prep
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and allow it to fully preheat for even baking.
- Prepare the Baking Sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking.
- Organize Ingredients: Measure out all ingredients, and if using optional toppings like chocolate chips or nuts, have them ready.
Make The Cookie Dough
- Grab a mixing bowl and pour in the Ghirardelli Brownie Mix.
- Add the wet ingredients:
- 1/3 cup of vegetable oil
- 2 tablespoons of water
- 1 large beaten egg
- Mix the ingredients together using a whisk or spoon until a thick, uniform dough forms.
- For extra indulgence, fold in optional chocolate chips or chopped nuts to enhance the flavor and texture.
Shape The Cookies
- Using a cookie scoop or spoon, scoop out small two-tablespoon-sized portions of the dough.
- Roll them lightly into balls for uniformity and place them on the prepared baking sheet, leaving at least 2 inches of space between each cookie to allow for spreading while baking.
- Gently flatten the tops of the dough balls with your fingers or the back of a spoon, as this will help shape the cookies.
Bake The Cookies
- Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are firm but the centers remain soft. Keep a close eye to avoid overbaking.
- Remove them from the oven and let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 3-5 minutes. This helps them set.
- Transfer the cookies to a wire cooling rack to cool completely.
- For an extra layer of indulgence, drizzle melted chocolate over the cooled cookies.
Tips For Best Results
Achieving perfect brownie cookies using Ghirardelli mix requires attention to detail and these useful tips. Follow these essential suggestions to ensure your cookies turn out beautifully every time.
1. Measure Ingredients Accurately
For consistent results, always measure ingredients precisely. Use proper measuring cups for liquids and dry ingredients. An inaccurate measurement can alter the texture and consistency of the batter, affecting the final product.
2. Don’t Overmix the Dough
Once the wet and dry ingredients are combined, mix until just incorporated. Overmixing can result in cookies that are too dense or tough. We want the batter to remain thick yet pliable, perfect for scooping.
3. Preheat the Oven
Set the oven to 350°F and allow it to fully preheat before baking. This ensures even cooking and helps the cookies achieve the right texture—crisp edges with soft, fudgy centers.
4. Portion Dough Consistently
Use a cookie scoop or tablespoon to ensure uniform cookie sizes. Evenly portioned dough balls will bake more consistently and prevent underbaked or overbaked batches.
5. Line Your Baking Sheet
Always use parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to line your baking sheet. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier while promoting even browning.
6. Timing Is Key
Bake the cookies for approximately 8–10 minutes, keeping an eye on them as ovens may vary. Look for firm edges and slightly soft centers. Avoid overbaking; they will continue to set while cooling.
7. Cool Properly
Transfer baked cookies to a wire cooling rack after a few minutes on the baking sheet. This prevents overcooking from residual heat and helps them cool evenly.
8. Enhance with Additions
For added texture and flavor, fold in optional ingredients like chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or a sprinkle of sea salt on top of each cookie ball before baking. These small tweaks can elevate the flavor to gourmet status.
Pro Tip:
Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. If you prefer them warm, microwave for 10 seconds to bring back their just-baked gooey texture.
Summary of Baking Essentials
| Key Tip | Why It’s Important |
|---|---|
| Measure accurately | Ensures correct batter consistency |
| Preheat the oven | Guarantees even baking |
| Don’t overmix | Prevents tough or dense cookies |
| Use parchment paper | Avoids sticking and promotes even cooking |
| Follow baking times | Achieves soft centers and firm edges |
With these tips, we promise your Ghirardelli brownie cookies will become your go-to dessert for any occasion.
Variations And Add-Ins
One of the best parts about making brownie cookies with Ghirardelli mix is how easily we can customize them! With a few creative add-ins or simple variations, we can elevate these already-delicious cookies into personalized treats that suit any taste.
Chocolate Lover’s Dream
- Double chocolate: Stir in 1/2 cup of Ghirardelli chocolate chips, either semisweet or dark, to enrich the chocolatey decadence.
- Chocolate drizzle: After the cookies cool, melt 1/4 cup of Ghirardelli chocolate and drizzle over the tops for a glossy finish and extra flavor.
Nutty and Crunchy
- Chopped nuts: Toss in 1/3 cup of chopped walnuts, pecans, or almonds to add some crunch and complementary flavors to the chewy texture.
- Peanut butter swirl: Gently swirl 2 tablespoons of creamy peanut butter into the batter before scooping for a sweet and nutty twist.
Fruity Goodness
- Dried fruits: Mix in 1/4 cup of dried cranberries, cherries, or raisins to infuse tart and sweet bursts that pair well with the rich chocolate flavor.
- Zesty orange: Add 1/2 teaspoon of orange zest to the batter for a refreshing citrus note.
Indulgent Additions
- Salted caramel: Press a small caramel candy into the center of each cookie before baking. Sprinkle lightly with sea salt as soon as they come out of the oven for that perfect sweet-salty combo.
- Stuffed center: Place a piece of white chocolate or a marshmallow inside each dough ball before baking for a fun, gooey surprise.
Gluten-Free Option
For a gluten-sensitive twist, we can try using the Ghirardelli Gluten-Free Brownie Mix instead of the standard mix. It ensures the same rich and chewy results without compromising on texture or taste.
Festive Variations
- Holiday sprinkles: Add colorful sprinkles directly to the batter or as decoration after drizzling chocolate on top for that festive flair.
- Peppermint crunch: Stir in 1/4 cup crushed peppermint candies, or sprinkle them over the drizzle for a minty holiday-inspired treat.
Quick Guide to Add-Ins
| Add-In Type | Suggested Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Chocolate chips | 1/2 cup | Semisweet or dark chocolate recommended. |
| Chopped nuts | 1/3 cup | Walnuts, pecans, or almonds work best. |
| Peanut butter | 2 tbsp | Swirl lightly before scooping. |
| Dried fruits | 1/4 cup | Use cranberries, cherries, or raisins. |
| Orange zest | 1/2 tsp | Adds a refreshing citrus flavor. |
| Caramel candy | 12 pieces | One candy per cookie ball. |
| Crushed peppermint | 1/4 cup | Ideal for festive holiday cookies. |
From classic chocolate enhancements to creative festive touches, we can now add our personal flair to these brownie cookies.
Storage And Make-Ahead Instructions
Proper storage and make-ahead strategies will ensure your Ghirardelli Brownie Cookies stay fresh and maintain their delicious texture. Here’s how we recommend storing and preparing these treats in advance:
Storing Baked Brownie Cookies
- Room Temperature: Once the cookies have completely cooled, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. Place a piece of parchment paper or wax paper between layers to prevent sticking.
- Refrigeration: For slightly extended freshness, keep the cookies in an airtight container in the fridge. This method extends storage to up to a week; however, it may alter the texture slightly by making them firmer.
- Freezing: To freeze baked cookies, place them in a freezer-safe container or zip-top freezer bag. Separate layers using parchment paper. Stored like this, the cookies will remain fresh for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw them at room temperature for about 15–20 minutes.
| Storage Method | Duration |
|---|---|
| Room Temperature | Up to 4 days |
| Refrigerator | Up to 1 week |
| Freezer | Up to 3 months |
Storing the Dough
- Refrigerator: If you want to make the dough ahead, cover the mixing bowl with plastic wrap or transfer the dough to an airtight container. Refrigerate the dough for up to 24 hours. Ensure the dough returns to room temperature before baking for even results.
- Freezing the Dough: Scoop the dough into cookie portions and roll them into balls. Place the dough balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze until firm. Transfer frozen dough balls into a freezer-safe bag or container and freeze for up to 3 months. Label the bag with the baking temperature and time for convenience. Bake directly from frozen, adding an extra 2–3 minutes to ensure thorough baking.
Tips for Optimal Freshness
- Always store cookies in airtight containers to maintain texture and prevent them from drying out.
- If your cookies become slightly firm, place a piece of bread in the container. This will help restore moisture, keeping your cookies soft and chewy.
- To refresh frozen cookies, warm them in the oven at 300°F for 3–5 minutes for that just-baked taste.
- Avoid storing cookies with strong-flavored items like spices or onions to prevent absorption of odors.
Conclusion
With Ghirardelli’s brownie mix as the star ingredient, these brownie cookies offer a perfect blend of convenience, flavor, and versatility. Whether you’re indulging in their rich, chocolatey goodness as-is or customizing them with your favorite add-ins, they’re sure to satisfy any sweet craving.
By following the recipe and tips provided, you can create a dessert that’s as impressive as it is easy to make. From their soft centers to their crisp edges, these cookies are a treat worth sharing—or keeping all to yourself. Let’s get baking and enjoy every bite!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the key ingredient in these brownie cookies?
The key ingredient in these brownie cookies is Ghirardelli Brownie Mix. It provides the rich, chocolatey base that makes these cookies irresistibly delicious.
What ingredients are needed to make Ghirardelli brownie cookies?
You’ll need 1 package of Ghirardelli Brownie Mix, 1/3 cup of vegetable oil, 2 tablespoons of water, 1 large beaten egg, and optional add-ins like chocolate chips or chopped nuts.
What tools are essential for preparing brownie cookies?
Essential tools include a mixing bowl, measuring cups and spoons, a whisk or spoon, a baking sheet, and parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
What temperature should I bake the brownie cookies at?
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) for the best baking results.
How do I ensure the cookies bake evenly?
To bake evenly, preheat your oven, use parchment paper or a silicone baking mat, and portion the cookie dough consistently.
Can I customize these brownie cookies with add-ins?
Yes! You can add chocolate chips, chopped nuts, dried fruits, or even fill them with salted caramel for a personalized treat. Use about 1/2 to 1 cup of add-ins.
How do I store leftover brownie cookies?
Store baked brownie cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days, in the fridge for a week, or freeze them for up to 3 months.
Can the cookie dough be made in advance?
Yes, the dough can be refrigerated for up to 24 hours or frozen as portioned balls for up to 3 months. Thaw frozen dough slightly before baking.
What is a useful tip for keeping the cookies fresh?
Add a small piece of bread to the airtight container to maintain the cookies’ moisture and softness.
Are there gluten-free options for this recipe?
Yes! Use Ghirardelli’s Gluten-Free Brownie Mix as a substitute for regular brownie mix to make gluten-free brownie cookies.
How can I make the cookies extra indulgent?
Drizzle melted chocolate over the cooled cookies or sprinkle festive toppings like peppermint crunch or sprinkles for a special occasion.
How can I reheat frozen brownie cookies?
Place frozen cookies in the oven at 300°F for a few minutes to enjoy a warm, freshly-baked taste.