Introduction
If you're a fan of cookies that bring a sense of nostalgia, look no further than Crumbl Cosmic Brownie Cookies. Combining the rich flavors of chocolate brownies with the delightful texture of cookies, these treats are perfect for any occasion.
Not only do they satisfy your sweet tooth, but they also evoke childhood memories of indulging in colorful cosmic brownies. This recipe will help you recreate those beloved flavors and textures right in your own kitchen.
Ingredients
- ½ cup butter (room temperature)
Butter adds richness and moisture to the cookies. Using room-temperature butter ensures it creams well with the sugars, creating a light texture. - ½ cup packed light brown sugar
Brown sugar contributes to the soft texture of the cookies while also imparting a subtle molasses flavor that enhances the overall taste. - ½ cup white granulated sugar
Granulated sugar adds sweetness and helps achieve a crisp outer edge while providing structure to the cookies. - 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract
Vanilla enhances the flavor profile of the cookies, adding warmth and depth to the chocolate. - 3 cups all-purpose flour
Flour provides the necessary structure for the cookies, helping them hold their shape while baking. - 1 cup cocoa powder
Cocoa powder brings the essential chocolate flavor to the cookies, making them rich and decadent. - 1 tablespoon cornstarch
Cornstarch helps to create a softer and chewier texture, preventing the cookies from becoming too dry. - 2 teaspoons baking soda
Baking soda acts as a leavening agent, allowing the cookies to rise and achieve a tender texture. - 1 teaspoon Kosher salt
Salt enhances the sweetness of the cookies, balancing the flavors and highlighting the chocolate. - ⅔ cup heavy cream
Heavy cream adds richness and moisture, ensuring the cookies remain soft and chewy, similar to a brownie. - 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
Chocolate chips provide pockets of melted chocolate, which contribute to the gooey, brownie-like texture of the cookies. - ⅓ cup rainbow coated chocolate chips (for garnish)
Rainbow coated chocolate chips add a fun and festive touch, reminiscent of the original cosmic brownie appearance.
Directions & Preparation
Step 1: Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Line the cookie sheets with parchment paper.
Preheating the oven is crucial for ensuring an even bake and optimal texture. Parchment paper prevents sticking and allows for easier removal of the cookies, making cleanup a breeze.
Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, cocoa, cornstarch, baking soda, and salt.
Whisking these dry ingredients together ensures they are evenly distributed, which is vital for consistent texture and flavor throughout the cookies. This step also helps to remove any lumps from the cocoa powder.
Step 3: Using an electric mixer, cream the butter, white, and light brown sugar until light and fluffy.
Creaming these ingredients together incorporates air into the mixture, producing a light and tender cookie. It’s important to achieve a pale color and fluffy texture, indicating the butter and sugars are properly mixed.
Step 4: Add the eggs, pure vanilla extract, and heavy cream, mixing until well combined.
Incorporating the wet ingredients at this stage helps bind the cookie dough and infuse it with flavor. Mixing until well combined ensures the eggs and cream are fully incorporated, contributing to a moist texture.
Step 5: Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients until a soft cookie dough forms.
Adding the dry ingredients gradually prevents clumping and ensures a smooth dough. Mixing until just combined stops overworking the flour, which can make the cookies tough.
Step 6: Fold in the semi-sweet chocolate chips until evenly distributed.
Folding in the chocolate chips gently ensures they don’t break and will create melty pockets of chocolate in the finished cookies. This step enhances both the texture and the chocolate centerpiece of each cookie.
Step 7: Using a large ice cream scooper, scoop the dough onto the prepared cookie sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
Scooping the dough with an ice cream scoop provides uniformity in size, ensuring even baking. Keeping adequate spacing allows the cookies to spread without running into each other.
Step 8: Flatten the cookie dough balls slightly before baking.
Flattening the dough helps achieve the desired cookie shape and size while ensuring they bake evenly. This technique prevents the cookies from rising too much and turning into mounds instead of flat cookies.
Step 9: Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes or until the edges look firm.
Baking for the right amount of time is crucial. Look for the edges to be set while the center may appear slightly underbaked; they will continue to firm up as they cool on the baking sheet.
Step 10: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for about 5 minutes before transferring to wire racks.
Cooling them on the baking sheet allows them to firm up and makes them easier to handle. Transferring them to wire racks ensures they cool completely and prevents sogginess from steam.
Step 11: Sprinkle rainbow coated chocolate chips on top before serving.
Adding the rainbow chips as a finishing touch not only makes the cookies visually appealing but also offers a delightful crunch and fun pop of color that echoes the spirit of cosmic brownies.
The Secret to Chewy Cookies
Achieving that perfect chewy cookie texture can be challenging, but it’s all about the balance of ingredients and baking time. The inclusion of heavy cream and cornstarch makes these cookies wonderfully soft while still retaining a rich brownie-like feel. Furthermore, make sure not to overbake; removing them from the oven when they're just set at the edges will result in the perfect chewy bite.
Elevating Your Cookies with Mix-Ins
While this recipe already features semi-sweet chocolate and rainbow-coated chips, the world of mix-ins is vast. Consider adding nuts like walnuts or pecans for a crunchy texture contrast or use white chocolate chips for a different flavor profile. Customizing your cookie with additional mix-ins can enhance the experience and allow you to tailor them to your taste or seasonal preferences.
The Importance of Quality Ingredients
The essence of any great cookie lies in the quality of its ingredients. Using high-quality cocoa powder and pure vanilla extract can significantly uplift the flavor. These components are not merely additions; they are essential to achieving that deeply satisfying chocolate experience. Investing in good ingredients pays off when it comes to baking, resulting in cookies that are truly out of this world.
FAQs
Can I use dark chocolate chips instead of semi-sweet?
Absolutely! Dark chocolate chips can add a more intense chocolate flavor, balancing perfectly with the sweetness of the cookies.
What if my cookie dough is too thick?
If your dough appears too thick, consider adding a tablespoon of milk or cream to loosen it up. This adjustment can help achieve a more workable consistency without affecting taste.
Can I make smaller cookies with this recipe?
Definitely! You can scoop smaller portions of dough and adjust your baking time accordingly. Smaller cookies will likely need a shorter baking time, so keep an eye on them.
What is the best way to know when my cookies are done baking?
The best indicator is the edges of the cookie; they should appear firm and set while the center may be slightly puffed and soft. Remove them from the oven when the edges are set for the best texture.
How do I get more chocolate flavor in my cookies?
To intensify the chocolate flavor, consider adding an extra ¼ cup of cocoa powder or using a mix of cocoa powder and melted chocolate in your dough.
Can I add a layer of frosting to these cookies?
Yes! A light layer of chocolate ganache or cream cheese frosting can elevate these cookies, turning them into a decadent treat.
Conclusion
Crumbl Cosmic Brownie Cookies are a delightful fusion of flavors and textures, bringing joy to both making and enjoying them. Each bite promises a nostalgic nod to classic cosmic brownies while offering the comforting embrace of freshly baked cookies.
Experiment with mix-ins or adjust the chocolate intensity to make this recipe uniquely yours. No matter how you choose to enjoy them, these cookies are sure to be a hit in your home.
Recipe Card
Notes
Additional serving suggestions: pair with a crisp salad, garlic bread, or roasted seasonal vegetables for balance.
For make-ahead, prep components separately and assemble just before heating to preserve texture.
Taste and adjust with acid (lemon/vinegar) and salt right at the end to wake up flavors.