Introduction
If you’ve ever had trouble choosing between brownies and chocolate chip cookies, this dessert is the best of both worlds — and then some. This Cookie Dough Brownie Cake layers a fudgy, extra-chocolatey brownie base with a soft, creamy, edible cookie dough frosting, creating a dessert that’s rich, sweet, chewy, and irresistibly satisfying in every bite.
It looks impressive and tastes like something straight from a bakery — but it’s surprisingly simple to make at home. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, bringing dessert to a gathering, or just treating yourself to something indulgent, this cake delivers pure chocolate happiness.
Ingredients List
For the Brownie Cake Layer
- 1/2 cup (115g) butter
- 8 oz (225g) dark chocolate, chopped
- 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup (100g) brown sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup (120g) all-purpose flour
- 1/3 cup (30g) unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
For the Edible Cookie Dough Topping
- 1/2 cup (115g) butter, softened
- 1/2 cup (100g) brown sugar
- 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons milk or cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/4 cups (150g) heat-treated flour (see note below)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2–3/4 cup chocolate chips
To Heat-Treat Flour:
Spread flour on a baking sheet and bake at 300°F (150°C) for 5 minutes to make it safe to eat raw. Let cool completely before using.
Timing
| Step | Time |
|---|---|
| Prep Time | 15 minutes |
| Bake Time | 25–30 minutes |
| Cooling Time | 30 minutes |
| Assembly | 5 minutes |
| Total Time | ~1 hour 20 minutes |
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Make the Brownie Cake
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
Line a 9-inch round cake pan with parchment.
Melt butter and chocolate together in a saucepan or microwave — stir until smooth.
Whisk in:
- Sugar
- Brown sugar
- Eggs (one at a time)
- Vanilla
Sift in:
- Flour
- Cocoa
- Salt
Fold gently until just combined.
Pour batter into the pan and bake for 25–30 minutes, until center is set but still fudgy.
Cool completely.
Step 2: Make the Edible Cookie Dough
In a bowl, beat butter and sugars until smooth and creamy.
Add milk and vanilla.
Mix in:
- Heat-treated flour
- Salt
Fold in chocolate chips.
Step 3: Assemble
Once brownie cake is fully cooled, spread cookie dough evenly across the top like frosting.
Smooth or swirl with a spatula.
Optional: Top with more chocolate chips, fudge drizzle, or sea salt.
Step 4: Serve
Slice thick — because this dessert is indulgent.
Nutritional Information (Approx. per slice)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~480 kcal |
| Protein | 6g |
| Fat | 26g |
| Carbs | 60g |
Rich — best enjoyed slowly, with joy.
Healthier Alternatives
| Goal | Adjustment |
|---|---|
| Lower Sugar | Reduce cookie dough brown sugar by 2 tbsp |
| Gluten-Free | Use gluten-free flour blends for both layers |
| Dairy-Free | Use vegan butter + dairy-free chocolate chips |
| Extra Dark Chocolate Flavor | Add 1 tablespoon espresso powder to brownie batter |
Serving Suggestions
Serve with:
- A glass of milk
- Cold brew coffee
- Vanilla ice cream
- Whipped cream
- Chocolate drizzle
This dessert also makes a stunning celebration cake.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
| Mistake | Solution |
|---|---|
| Cookie dough is too soft | Chill dough 10 minutes before spreading |
| Brownie cracks or collapses | Do not overmix once flour is added |
| Brownie sticks to the pan | Line pan fully with parchment paper |
| Layers slide | Ensure brownie is fully cooled before topping |
Storing Tips
- Refrigerate: Up to 5 days
- Freeze: Up to 2 months
- Serve Cold or Room Temp: Cold makes clean slices, room temp makes softer topping
Conclusion
This Cookie Dough Brownie Cake is rich, fudgy, creamy, and absolutely unforgettable — a dessert designed for chocolate lovers and celebration moments. It’s homemade baking, but with the flavor and wow-factor of a bakery display cake… and so much easier than it looks.
Try it soon — and when you do, share your favorite topping twist!
FAQs
1. Can I double the recipe?
Yes — bake in a 9×13 pan and frost the top.
2. Can I add nuts?
Absolutely — chopped walnuts are excellent in the brownie layer.
3. Can I use boxed brownie mix?
Yes — just bake in a round pan and top with the cookie dough layer.
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