Cookie Dough Brownies recipe layers a thick fudgy brownie bottom topped with creamy, cheesecake cookie dough, all covered in a rich, chocolate topping. This cream cheese brownie recipe includes gluten free and brownie mix adaptations.
Preheat the oven to 350ºF. Grease a 8X8 baking pan and set aside.
In a large saucepan, combine the sugar, butter, and water. Bring to just a boil, stirring constantly. Remove from the heat and stir in 1 cup chocolate chips. Cool slightly, about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
¾ cup sugar, ⅓ cup butter,, 2 tablespoons water, 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
Stir eggs and vanilla into the saucepan. Add the flour, cocoa, baking soda, and salt. Stir until well combined.
2 large eggs,, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Pour into prepared baking pan and bake at for 30-32 minutes or until toothpick inserted in center comes out clean. Cool completely on a wire rack.
¾ cup all purpose flour,, 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder, ¼ teaspoon baking soda, ¼ teaspoon salt
Cookie Dough:
In a large bowl beat together cream cheese, butter, brown sugar, powdered sugar, vanilla and salt until well combined and smooth, about 1-2 minutes.
6 ounce cream cheese,, 4 tablespoons unsalted butter,, ½ cup light brown sugar, ½ cup powder sugar, 2 teaspoons vanilla extract, ¼ teaspoon salt
Stir in the miniature chocolate chips. Spread cookie dough on the cooled brownies and refrigerate for 45 -60 minutes.
½ cup miniature chocolate chips
Chocolate topping:
Place the chocolate chips and butter in microwave safe bowl. Microwave for 45-60 seconds, stirring every 15 seconds. Remove from microwave before chips are fully melted and continue stirring until chocolate is smooth.
¾ cup semisweet chocolate chips, 4 tablespoons unsalted butter,
Spread the chocolate on top of cream cheese layer. Chill for 15 minutes before cutting and serving. Refrigerate any leftovers.
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Notes
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can I make these gluten free?
Yes. Since the cheesecake cookie dough layer is naturally gluten free, you will only need a gluten free brownie bottom. Either use a 8X8 gluten free brownie mix or substitute gluten free flour in the recipe included.For gluten free and grain free brownies, almond flour brownie recipe may also be substituted.
Can I use a brownie mix?Yes. The bottom brownie layer may be substituted with your favorite store bought mix. To make cookie dough brownies with a brownie mix just be sure the mix yields a 8X8 inch pan of brownies, versus a 9X13 inch.
Storing / FreezingThese bars need to be refrigerated because of the cheesecake layer. However, they may sit out up to 4-6 hours before having to transfer them to a refrigerator.
The entire pan or individual brownies may be wrapped securely and frozen up to 3 months in an airtight container. Thaw in the refrigerator when ready to serve.