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If you adore the idea of rich chocolate combined with a playful burst of colorful candy, then this Cosmic Brownie Cookies Recipe is your next kitchen must-try. These cookies bring together the fudgy decadence of brownies and the chewy charm of cookies, all topped with a glossy ganache and sprinkled with vibrant candy-coated chocolates that make every bite feel like a celebration. Whether you’re baking for a crowd or just satisfying your own sweet tooth, these cosmic treats are as fun to make as they are to eat.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Creating these incredible Cosmic Brownie Cookies requires just a handful of straightforward ingredients, each playing a vital role to balance texture, flavor, and appearance perfectly. From the luscious butter that ensures richness to the rainbow sprinkles that add that festive touch, every component counts.
- Unsalted butter (1 cup, softened): Provides creamy richness and tenderizes the cookie dough for that perfect chewy bite.
- Granulated sugar (1 1/2 cups): Adds sweetness and contributes to a slightly crisp exterior on the cookies.
- Large eggs (2): Bind the ingredients while adding moisture and helping with structure.
- Vanilla extract (2 teaspoons): Enhances all the other flavors with a warm, aromatic note.
- All-purpose flour (2 cups): Forms the base of the dough and gives the cookies their shape and bite.
- Unsweetened cocoa powder (3/4 cup): Delivers deep chocolate flavor and dark color, making these cookies truly brownie-like.
- Baking soda (1 teaspoon): Helps the cookies rise just enough for a soft interior with a slight lift.
- Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Balances sweetness and amplifies chocolate flavor.
- Semi-sweet chocolate chips (1 cup plus 1 cup for ganache): Melts into pockets of chocolate in the cookies and creates a luscious ganache topping.
- Heavy cream (1/2 cup): Used for the ganache to add smoothness and shine.
- Rainbow candy-coated chocolate chips (mini M&Ms or sprinkles, 1 handful): Adds a whimsical burst of color and a little crunch on top.
How to Make Cosmic Brownie Cookies Recipe
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start off by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats. This ensures your cookies will bake evenly and not stick, making cleanup a breeze.
Step 2: Prepare the Cookie Dough
In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step is crucial for creating a soft, tender crumb in your cookies. Next, beat in the eggs one at a time, making sure each is fully incorporated, followed by the vanilla extract for that lovely aroma. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt—this dry mix infuses the dough with rich chocolate flavor and balanced texture. Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined, then gently fold in the semi-sweet chocolate chips to scatter gooey chocolate throughout each cookie.
Step 3: Shape and Bake the Cookies
Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, drop rounded dough balls onto your prepared baking sheets, spacing them about two inches apart to allow spreading. Flatten each cookie slightly with the back of a spoon or your fingers—that’s the secret to getting those tender edges and soft centers that melt in your mouth. Bake for 8 to 10 minutes, watching for set edges while keeping the centers soft for that perfect fudgy brownie cookie bite. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for five minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 4: Prepare the Ganache Topping
Place the second cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips into a heatproof bowl. Warm the heavy cream over medium heat just until it begins to simmer—take care not to let it boil, as this will affect the ganache’s texture. Pour the hot cream over the chocolate and let it sit for a few minutes to soften the chips, then stir until smooth and glossy. This indulgent ganache will be the luscious finishing touch for your Cosmic Brownie Cookies.
Step 5: Decorate the Cookies
Once your cookies have fully cooled, generously spread the silky ganache over the top of each one. Immediately sprinkle with rainbow candy-coated chocolate chips or your favorite colorful sprinkles to capture that iconic cosmic look. Let the ganache set at room temperature or pop the cookies into the refrigerator for a quicker finish.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Your Cosmic Brownie Cookies Recipe has reached its delicious finale! Serve these decadent cookies to friends and family and watch their eyes light up at the rich chocolate flavor combined with the joyful colors. Trust me, this recipe is a winner every time.
How to Serve Cosmic Brownie Cookies Recipe
Garnishes
While the rainbow candy-coated chips give these cookies their cosmic flair, consider adding a light dusting of powdered sugar or even a drizzle of white chocolate over the ganache for extra visual interest. Sprinkle a pinch of flaky sea salt atop the ganache before it sets to bring out the chocolate’s depth and add a sophisticated finish that keeps everyone guessing.
Side Dishes
These cookies pair beautifully with a tall glass of cold milk or a cup of freshly brewed coffee or espresso, balancing the intense chocolate flavors with creamy or slightly bitter contrasts. If you’re feeling indulgent, a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side makes for a truly decadent dessert plate.
Creative Ways to Present
To make your Cosmic Brownie Cookies Recipe the star of a party or special occasion, arrange them on a colorful platter with edible flowers or fresh berries for a pop of natural color. Wrapping individual cookies in wax paper tied with twine creates charming gifts for friends. You can even sandwich two cookies together with a dollop of frosting or marshmallow fluff to create cosmic cookie sandwiches that double the fun.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
You can store your Cosmic Brownie Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days without losing any of their fudgy moisture or ganache shine. Keeping them away from direct sunlight will preserve the vibrant candy coating colors.
Freezing
To enjoy these cosmic treats later, freeze the cooled and ganache-topped cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet first, then transfer them to an airtight bag or container. When properly sealed, they keep well for up to three months. Thaw at room temperature before serving to bring back that chewy chocolate goodness.
Reheating
If you want to enjoy your Cosmic Brownie Cookies warm, pop them in the microwave for about 10 to 15 seconds. The ganache softens and the chocolate chips melt slightly, bringing back that freshly-baked feel with little effort.
FAQs
Can I use dark chocolate instead of semi-sweet chocolate chips?
Absolutely! Using dark chocolate chips will give your Cosmic Brownie Cookies Recipe a deeper, more intense chocolate flavor. Just be mindful that it might add a slightly bittersweet note compared to semi-sweet chips.
What if I don’t have heavy cream for the ganache?
If heavy cream isn’t handy, you can substitute with full-fat coconut milk for a dairy-free option, or even use evaporated milk in a pinch. The texture might vary slightly, but it will still result in a luscious ganache topping.
Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Yes, by swapping the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free baking blend that measures cup-for-cup, you can enjoy these cookies without gluten. Just be sure your baking blend contains xanthan gum or another binder for the best results.
How do I prevent the cookies from spreading too much during baking?
Make sure your butter is softened but not melted, and keep the dough chilled for about 15 minutes before baking. This helps preserve the cookie’s shape and keeps them nice and thick.
Can I make mini versions of these cookies?
Definitely! Simply use a smaller scoop to make bite-sized cookies and reduce baking time by 2-3 minutes. The mini version is perfect for parties or as a sweet snack on the go.
Final Thoughts
Making this Cosmic Brownie Cookies Recipe is truly like creating little bites of joyful chocolate happiness. The blend of fudgy brownie texture with cookie charm, topped with a shiny ganache and colorful sprinkles, is hard to resist. Give this recipe a try—you’ll find it so rewarding and delicious, it’s bound to become one of your favorite go-to desserts for any occasion!
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Cosmic Brownie Cookies Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 24 servings 1x
Description
Cosmic Brownie Cookies are rich, fudgy, and loaded with chocolate chips, topped with a smooth chocolate ganache and colorful rainbow candy-coated chocolate chips for a fun and festive treat. These cookies combine the deep chocolate flavor of brownies with the chewy texture of classic cookies, making them a delightful dessert for any occasion.
Ingredients
Cookie Dough
- 1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
Ganache Topping
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- Rainbow candy-coated chocolate chips (like mini M&Ms or other colorful sprinkles)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats to prepare for baking.
- Prepare the Cookie Dough: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition to ensure proper incorporation. Mix in the vanilla extract for flavor. In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add these dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Finally, fold in the semi-sweet chocolate chips to evenly distribute.
- Shape and Bake the Cookies: Using a cookie scoop or a spoon, drop rounded tablespoons of the dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing the cookies about 2 inches apart to allow for spreading. Flatten each cookie slightly with the back of a spoon or your fingers. Bake in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are set and the centers remain slightly soft for a fudgy texture. Remove from the oven and let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Prepare the Ganache Topping: Place the semi-sweet chocolate chips in a heatproof bowl. In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream over medium heat until it just begins to simmer without boiling. Pour the hot cream over the chocolate chips and let sit for 2-3 minutes to soften. Stir the mixture until the chocolate melts completely and the ganache is smooth and glossy.
- Decorate the Cookies: Once the cookies have cooled completely, spread a generous layer of the prepared ganache over the top of each cookie. Immediately sprinkle with rainbow candy-coated chocolate chips or colorful sprinkles for a festive look. Allow the ganache to set at room temperature or place the cookies in the refrigerator to speed up the setting process.
- Serve and Enjoy: Serve the cookies once the ganache has fully set. Enjoy your rich, fudgy Cosmic Brownie Cookies with a fun and colorful twist!
Notes
- For best results, do not overbake the cookies; they should be slightly soft in the center for a fudgy brownie-like texture.
- If you prefer a thicker ganache, chill it slightly before spreading.
- Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for longer freshness.
- Can substitute rainbow sprinkles with any other colorful toppings as desired.
- Make sure to let the cookies cool completely before adding ganache to prevent melting and sliding.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
