Easy Brookie Bars Recipe

A heavenly marriage of two beloved desserts, these brookie bars combine the richness of brownies with the classic goodness of chocolate chip cookies. The result is a decadent treat that's sure to satisfy your sweet tooth. Whether you're a seasoned baker or a newbie in the kitchen, this recipe offers a fun and tasty challenge.

Photos of Brookie Bars Recipe

The brookie bars recipe calls for standard baking ingredients that most people will have in their pantry. However, one ingredient you might need to purchase is instant coffee granules. This enhances the chocolate flavor in the brownie layer, providing depth and complexity. If you're not a regular coffee drinker or don't have it at home, be sure to grab this at the supermarket.

Ingredients for Brookie Bars

unsalted butter: Used in both the brownie and cookie layers, it adds richness and helps in creating a tender crumb.

granulated sugar: This basic sweetener will help to balance the flavors.

light brown sugar: It contributes to the moistness and adds a slight caramel flavor.

cocoa powder: It gives the brownie its classic chocolate flavor.

salt: An essential flavor enhancer.

instant coffee granules: Elevates the chocolate flavor in the brownie layer.

baking powder: Leavening agent that helps the brownie rise.

egg: Provides structure and stability.

vanilla extract: Adds depth of flavor.

all purpose flour: Provides structure for both the brownie and cookie layers.

chocolate chunks: Adds extra chocolatey goodness to the brownie layer.

cornstarch: Gives the cookie layer a more tender texture.

baking soda: Another leavening agent, used in the cookie layer.

semi sweet chocolate chips: Their semi-sweetness balances the sugar in the cookie layer.

One reader, Glendon Marek says:

I recently tried the brookie bars recipe and it was a game-changer! The combination of brownie and chocolate chip cookie layers was absolutely divine. The bars turned out moist, chewy, and incredibly delicious. It's a must-try for anyone with a sweet tooth!

Glendon Marek

Techniques Required for Making Brookie Bars

How to prepare browned butter: In a medium saucepan, cook the butter over medium heat until it turns light brown or caramel in color, which should take about 5-10 minutes. It's important to keep an eye on it to prevent the butter from burning. Using a light-colored saucepan can help with this process.

How to pour browned butter: After browning the butter, pour it into a large bowl along with both sugars, cocoa powder, salt, instant coffee granules, and baking powder. Stir until combined and allow the mixture to rest for 5 minutes or until it has cooled down.

How to mix brownie batter: After the mixture has cooled, stir in the eggs and vanilla, mixing until the batter has a nice sheen to it. Then, fold in the flour and chocolate chips, stirring until combined. It's important not to overmix the batter.

How to make chocolate chip cookie dough: In a stand mixer with the paddle attachment, cream the butter and sugars. Then, add in the egg and vanilla, mixing until combined. In a medium bowl, mix together the cornstarch, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and flour. Add the dry ingredients to the mixer on low speed just until combined, being careful not to overmix. Finally, fold in the chocolate chips by hand.

How To Make Brookie Bars

These brookie bars are made with two layers of chocolatey goodness; with a rich chocolate brownie on the bottom, and a buttery chocolate cookie to top!

Preparation: 15 minutes

Cooking: 30 minutes

Total: 45 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

For Brownie Layer:

5tbspunsalted butter,cubed
⅓cupgranulated sugar
⅓cuplight brown sugar
½cupunsweetened cocoa powder
¼tspsalt
½tbspinstant coffee granules
¼tspbaking powder
1large eggs,cold
1tspvanilla extract
⅓cupall purpose flour
¼cupchocolate chunks,or chocolate chips

For Chocolate Chip Cookie Layer:

5tbspunsalted butter,softened
4tbsplight brown sugar
2tbspgranulated sugar
1large egg
1tspvanilla
1tspcornstarch
¼tspbaking soda
⅛tspbaking powder
¼tspsalt
1¼cupall purpose flour
½cupsemi sweet chocolate chips

Instructions

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Lightly grease sides of an 8×8 pan and line with enough parchment paper to overhang the sides.

Brownie Layer:

Add the butter to a medium saucepan and cook for 5 to 10 minutes, over medium heat until light brown caramel in color.
Pour browned butter into a large bowl along with both sugars, cocoa powder, salt, instant coffee granules and baking powder. Stir until combined.
Allow to rest for 5 minutes or until the mixture has cooled down.
Stir in the eggs and vanilla and mix until the batter has a nice sheen to it. Fold in the flour and chocolate chips and stir until combined. Do not over mix. Set aside.

Chocolate Chip Cookie Layer:

In a stand mixer with the paddle attachment cream butter and sugars. Add in egg and vanilla and mix until combined.
In a medium bowl mix together cornstarch, baking soda, baking powder, salt and flour.
Add the dry ingredients on low just until combined. Do not overmix.
Fold in chocolate chips by hand. Set dough aside.

To Bake:

Pour the brownie batter into prepared pan first. Drop large spoonfuls of cookie dough and spread carefully.
Bake for 25 to 30 minutes. Cool completely before slicing.
Serve and enjoy!

Nutrition

Calories: 368.79kcal
Fat: 19.05g
Saturated Fat: 11.43g
Trans Fat: 0.52g
Monounsaturated Fat: 5.40g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.94g
Carbohydrates: 48.81g
Fiber: 3.22g
Sugar: 27.45g
Protein: 5.38g
Cholesterol: 75.26mg
Sodium: 202.73mg
Calcium: 46.48mg
Potassium: 188.11mg
Iron: 2.44mg
Vitamin A: 125.70µg

Crucial Technique Tip for Perfect Brookie Bars

When browning the butter, it's crucial to keep a close eye on it to prevent burning. The butter will start to foam and you'll see brown specks appear at the bottom of the pan. This is the point where you should remove it from the heat. The residual heat will continue to brown the butter without burning it. The browned butter adds a rich, nutty flavor to the brookie bars. Also, when combining the flour and chocolate chips into the batter, be careful not to overmix. Overmixing can lead to a dense and tough texture in the final product. Instead, gently fold them in just until they're incorporated.

Time-Saving Tips for Making Brookie Bars Recipe

Plan ahead: Prepare all your ingredients and equipment before you start. This will help you work more efficiently and avoid any last-minute scrambling.

Multi-task: While one layer is baking, prepare the other layer to save time and make the process more efficient.

Use pre-made mixes: Consider using pre-made brownie and cookie mixes to save time on preparation.

Substitute Ingredients For Brookie Bars Recipe

unsalted butter - Substitute with coconut oil: Coconut oil can provide a similar richness and moisture to the recipe, while also adding a hint of coconut flavor.
granulated sugar - Substitute with honey: Honey can add sweetness and moisture to the recipe, and it also brings a unique flavor profile.
light brown sugar - Substitute with maple syrup: Maple syrup can provide a similar sweetness and caramel-like flavor to the recipe.
unsweetened cocoa powder - Substitute with carob powder: Carob powder has a similar chocolatey flavor and can be used as a 1:1 replacement for cocoa powder.
all purpose flour - Substitute with almond flour: Almond flour can be used as a gluten-free alternative and adds a nutty flavor to the recipe.
chocolate chunks - Substitute with chopped nuts: Chopped nuts can add a crunchy texture and nutty flavor to the recipe, similar to chocolate chunks.
light brown sugar - Substitute with coconut sugar: Coconut sugar can provide a similar sweetness and caramel-like flavor to the recipe.
granulated sugar - Substitute with agave nectar: Agave nectar can add sweetness and moisture to the recipe, and it also brings a unique flavor profile.
unsalted butter - Substitute with vegan butter: Vegan butter can provide a similar richness and moisture to the recipe, while also being dairy-free.
light brown sugar - Substitute with date sugar: Date sugar can provide a similar sweetness and caramel-like flavor to the recipe.

Best Way to Present Brookies

Elevate the plating: When presenting the brookie bars, focus on creating an elegant and visually appealing presentation. Use clean lines and precise placement of the bars to showcase the layers and textures.
Incorporate a garnish: Add a touch of sophistication by incorporating a delicate garnish of edible flowers or a dusting of cocoa powder to add a pop of color and elevate the overall aesthetic.
Utilize negative space: Embrace the concept of negative space on the plate to allow the brookie bars to stand out. This will create a sense of balance and draw attention to the intricate layers of the dessert.
Consider complementary accompaniments: Pair the brookie bars with a quenelle of vanilla bean ice cream or a drizzle of salted caramel sauce to enhance the flavor profile and provide a delightful contrast in temperatures and tastes.
Precision in portioning: Pay attention to the precision of portion sizes, ensuring that each brookie bar is cut with clean edges and presented with uniformity to showcase attention to detail and culinary finesse.
Play with textures: Introduce a textural element such as a shard of chocolate or a sprinkle of toasted nuts to add complexity and depth to the overall presentation.
Artful sauce application: Use a delicate hand to apply a decorative drizzle of chocolate ganache or a zig-zag pattern of raspberry coulis to create a visually stunning and professional finish to the plate.

Essential Tools for Making Brookie Bars

Mixing bowls: Used for combining ingredients and mixing batters or doughs.
Whisk: Used for blending and aerating ingredients, such as eggs, sauces, and batters.
Saucepan: Used for cooking ingredients over direct heat, such as melting butter or making caramel.
8x8 inch baking pan: Used for baking the brookie bars.
Parchment paper: Used to line the baking pan to prevent sticking and for easy removal of the brookie bars.
Stand mixer with paddle attachment: Used for creaming butter and sugars and mixing cookie dough.
Measuring cups and spoons: Used for accurately measuring ingredients.
Spatula: Used for folding ingredients and scraping the sides of bowls.
Oven: Used for baking the brookie bars at the specified temperature.

Storing and Freezing Brookie Bars: A Guide

Once the brookie bars have cooled completely, slice them into individual servings and place them in an airtight container or wrap them tightly with plastic wrap. They can be stored at room temperature for up to 3-4 days, ensuring they remain moist and delicious.
For longer storage, you can refrigerate the brookie bars in an airtight container for up to a week. When ready to serve, let them come to room temperature for the best texture and flavor.
If you want to freeze the brookie bars for later enjoyment, wrap each bar individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe container or resealable bag. They can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. To thaw, simply remove the desired number of bars from the freezer and let them defrost at room temperature for a few hours or overnight in the refrigerator.
To maintain the freshness and prevent the brownie and chocolate chip cookie layers from drying out, make sure to store the brookie bars in an airtight container or wrap them tightly with plastic wrap. This will help preserve their soft, chewy texture and rich flavor.
If you find that the brookie bars have become slightly dry after storage, you can microwave them for a few seconds to soften them up and restore their gooey, melt-in-your-mouth texture. Just be careful not to overheat them, as the chocolate chips may melt.

How To Reheat Leftover Brookie Bars

The best way to reheat leftover brookie bars is in the oven. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the bars on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Heat for 5-10 minutes, or until warmed through and slightly crispy on the edges. This method helps restore the texture of the brownie base and the chocolate chip cookie top.
If you're in a hurry, you can also reheat brookie bars in the microwave. Place a single bar on a microwave-safe plate and heat for 15-20 seconds, or until just warm. Be careful not to overheat, as this can cause the chocolate chips to melt and the bar to become soggy.
For a crispy exterior and a warm, gooey center, try reheating your brookie bars in an air fryer. Set the air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and place the bars in the basket, leaving some space between each one. Heat for 2-3 minutes, or until warmed through and slightly crispy.
If you want to enjoy your leftover brookie bars cold, simply remove them from the refrigerator and let them sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to develop and the texture to soften slightly, making them more enjoyable to eat.
For a fun twist, try crumbling leftover brookie bars over a scoop of vanilla ice cream or yogurt. The combination of warm, gooey brownie and chocolate chip cookie pieces with the cool, creamy ice cream is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.

Interesting Fact About Brookie Bars

The Brookie Bars recipe combines the best of both worlds, with a layer of brownie and a layer of chocolate chip cookie. This delicious treat is perfect for those who can't decide between brownies and cookies. The combination of rich chocolate and sweet cookie dough creates a delightful dessert that is sure to satisfy any sweet tooth. Plus, the addition of browned butter in the brownie layer adds a unique and nutty flavor to the bars. Whether you're a fan of brownies, cookies, or both, the Brookie Bars recipe is a must-try for any dessert lover.

Is Making Brookie Bars at Home Cost-Effective?

This brookie bars recipe is fairly cost-effective for a household. The ingredients, such as butter, sugar, cocoa powder, and flour, are commonly found in most kitchens. However, the addition of chocolate chunks and chocolate chips may slightly increase the cost. Considering the yield and the satisfaction it brings, the overall verdict for this recipe is 9 out of 10. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $15-$20, making it a reasonable choice for a delightful homemade treat.

Are Brookie Bars Healthy or Unhealthy?

The brookie bars recipe, while undeniably delicious, is not particularly healthy. Here's why:

The recipe is high in sugar, with both granulated and brown sugar used in the brownie and cookie layers. Excessive sugar consumption can lead to weight gain, tooth decay, and an increased risk of chronic diseases like diabetes and heart disease.
Butter is a significant ingredient in both layers, contributing to the recipe's high saturated fat content. Consuming too much saturated fat can raise LDL (bad) cholesterol levels and increase the risk of heart disease.
The recipe uses all-purpose flour, which is refined and lacks the nutrients and fiber found in whole grain flours.
Chocolate chips and chunks, while providing a delightful texture and flavor, add extra sugar and fat to the recipe.

To make the brookie bars healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Reduce the amount of sugar in both the brownie and cookie layers. You can experiment with using natural sweeteners like honey, maple syrup, or dates as a partial replacement for the refined sugars.
Replace some of the butter with healthier alternatives, such as Greek yogurt, mashed avocado, or coconut oil. These substitutions can help reduce the saturated fat content while maintaining moisture and richness.
Swap out a portion of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour, oat flour, or almond flour. These flours offer more nutrients, fiber, and protein compared to refined flour.
Use dark chocolate chips or chunks with a high cocoa content (70% or above) instead of semi-sweet chocolate. Dark chocolate contains more antioxidants and less sugar than its sweeter counterparts.
Incorporate some healthy add-ins to boost the nutritional value of the brookie bars. Consider adding chopped nuts, seeds, or dried fruits like cranberries or goji berries for extra fiber, healthy fats, and antioxidants.

Editor's Opinion on This Brookie Bar Recipe

The brookie bars recipe combines the best of both worlds with a rich, fudgy brownie layer and a classic chocolate chip cookie layer. The use of browned butter adds a depth of flavor, while the addition of instant coffee granules enhances the chocolatey goodness. The layering technique creates a delightful contrast in textures, making each bite a delightful experience. However, it's important to ensure that the brownie layer is fully baked before adding the cookie layer to achieve the perfect balance of moistness and chewiness. Overall, this recipe promises a decadent treat that will surely satisfy any sweet tooth.

Enhance Your Brookie Bars Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes with a hint of roasted garlic, perfect for balancing the sweetness of the brookie bars.

Grilled Pineapple Skewers: Juicy pineapple chunks grilled to perfection, adding a refreshing and tropical twist to the rich brookie bars.

Balsamic Glazed Brussels Sprouts: Tender Brussels sprouts coated in a sweet and tangy balsamic glaze, providing a savory contrast to the decadent brookie bars.

Delicious Alternatives to the Classic Brookie Bars Recipe

Grilled Vegetable Skewers: Marinate your favorite vegetables and grill them to perfection on skewers for a delicious and healthy side dish or appetizer.

Honey Garlic Glazed Salmon: Coat your salmon fillets in a sweet and savory honey garlic glaze before baking or grilling for a flavorful and easy seafood dish.

Mango Coconut Chia Pudding: Combine ripe mango, creamy coconut milk, and nutritious chia seeds to create a refreshing and tropical dessert or breakfast option.

Creamy Tomato Basil Soup: Simmer ripe tomatoes, aromatic basil, and creamy dairy for a comforting and classic soup that pairs perfectly with a grilled cheese sandwich.

Balsamic Glazed Chicken Breast: Marinate chicken breasts in a tangy balsamic glaze and grill or bake them for a simple yet flavorful main dish that pairs well with a variety of sides.

Appetizers and Main Courses That Complement Brookie Bars Perfectly

Appetizers:

Caprese Salad Skewers: Impress your guests with these elegant and refreshing Caprese Salad Skewers. The combination of juicy cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and fragrant basil drizzled with balsamic glaze is sure to tantalize their taste buds.

Stuffed Mushrooms: Wow your guests with these delectable Stuffed Mushrooms. The savory filling of cream cheese, garlic, and herbs nestled inside tender mushroom caps will leave them craving for more.

Main Courses:

Chicken Alfredo: Create a creamy and indulgent pasta dish with tender pieces of chicken and a rich, savory Alfredo sauce. Serve it over fettuccine for a classic and comforting meal.

Beef Stir Fry: Whip up a quick and flavorful stir fry with thinly sliced beef, colorful vegetables, and a savory sauce. Serve it over steamed rice for a satisfying and nutritious dinner option.

Why trust this Brookie Bars Recipe:

This recipe guarantees a delightful fusion of rich, fudgy brownie and classic chocolate chip cookie flavors. The careful layering ensures a perfect balance of textures and tastes, while the use of browned butter adds a depth of flavor that elevates the entire dessert. With precise instructions and quality ingredients such as unsweetened cocoa powder, chocolate chunks, and semi-sweet chocolate chips, this recipe promises a decadent treat that will surely impress. Trust in the expertise and passion behind this creation, and indulge in the ultimate brookie bars experience.

Share your thoughts on the Brookie Bars Recipe in the Recipe Sharing forum and let us know how your batch turned out!

FAQ:

How do I know when the brookie bars are done baking?

You'll know the brookie bars are done baking when the edges are set and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. Be careful not to overbake them, as they will continue to set as they cool.

Can I use instant espresso instead of instant coffee granules?

Yes, you can use instant espresso instead of instant coffee granules. Just use the same amount called for in the recipe.

Can I use dark brown sugar instead of light brown sugar?

Yes, you can use dark brown sugar instead of light brown sugar. It will give the brookie bars a slightly richer flavor.

How should I store the brookie bars?

Store the brookie bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep them longer, you can store them in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Can I freeze the brookie bars?

Yes, you can freeze the brookie bars. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, or place them in a freezer-safe container, and they can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.