Jump to Recipe Print Recipe“Last week, as I wrestled with a stubborn craving for something sweet, a lightbulb moment struck. What if I combined the comfort of fudgy brownies with the playful delight of monster cookies? Enter the Monster Cookie Fudgy Brownies—a whimsical dessert that has quickly become my go-to indulgence. With their rich and fudgy brownie base layered under chewy cookie dough studded with mini M&M’s, these bars are not only a crowd-pleaser but also a breeze to whip up in the kitchen. Perfect for unexpected guests or a cozy night in, they deliver a satisfying bite of joy without the fuss. Ready to dive into this deliciously messy treat? Let’s get baking!” Why Are Monster Cookie Fudgy Brownies So Special? Indulge in Bliss: These brownies combine rich, fudgy chocolate with the chewy goodness of monster cookies, creating an irresistible treat. Quick and Easy: With minimal prep time, you can whip up a delicious dessert that’s sure to impress any guest! Endless Variations: Don’t hesitate to experiment! Swap in your favorite nuts or dried fruits for a twist, or try them warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the ultimate experience. Crowd-Pleasing Delight: Perfect for any occasion, they’re sure to satisfy even the pickiest of sweet tooth lovers. If you love fudgy textures, check out my Browned Butter Cookies too! Comfort in Every Bite: These brownies bring a taste of home that’s nostalgic and packed with love, ensuring everyone goes back for seconds! Monster Cookie Fudgy Brownies Ingredients Get ready to create a dessert that will delight your senses! For the Brownie Base White Granulated Sugar – Provides sweetness and structure; can substitute with coconut sugar for a lower glycemic index. Large Eggs – Adds moisture and binding; substitute with flaxseed meal mixed with water (1 tbsp flax meal + 2.5 tbsp water = 1 egg). Egg Yolk – Enhances richness and moisture; omit for egg-free versions or use additional flaxseed mixture. Unsalted Butter – Adds richness and moisture; can swap with vegan butter for a dairy-free option. Oil (Canola or Vegetable) – Contributes moisture and fat; melted coconut oil works as an alternative. Pure Vanilla Extract – Enhances overall flavor; no substitutions needed but can use vanilla bean paste for a richer flavor. All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure; gluten-free all-purpose flour can be used as a substitute. Unsweetened Cocoa Powder (Dutch Process) – Provides chocolate flavor and color; regular cocoa powder can be used if Dutch process is unavailable. Cornstarch – Helps keep the brownies fudgy; use arrowroot powder as a substitute if unavailable. Salt – Enhances flavor; sea salt can be used as an alternative. Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips – Adds chocolatey flavor and texture; opt for dark chocolate chips for a richer taste. Milk Chocolate Chips – Provides sweetness; can substitute with more semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips. For the Monster Cookie Topping All-Purpose Flour – For structure; gluten-free alternative is available. Cornstarch, Baking Soda, Baking Powder, Salt – For texture and rise; use substitutes as needed from above. Unsalted Butter – For flavor; can substitute as above. Brown Sugar – Adds depth of flavor; no direct substitution, but can use coconut sugar. White Granulated Sugar – Adds sweetness; swap with coconut sugar. Peanut Butter – Provides a nutty flavor and binds ingredients; substitute with sunflower seed butter for a nut-free option. Quick Oats – Creates chewiness; steel-cut oats can be used for a heartier texture. Mini Chocolate Chips, Mini M&M’s – For added sweetness and texture; substitute with any preferred chocolate candies. Dive into making these Monster Cookie Fudgy Brownies that promise to be the highlight of your dessert table! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Monster Cookie Fudgy Brownies Step 1: Prepare the Monster Cookie Dough In a mixing bowl, combine flour, cornstarch, baking soda, baking powder, and salt, whisking until well mixed. In another bowl, cream together softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar for about 3-4 minutes until fluffy. Add peanut butter, vanilla extract, and egg, mixing until smooth. Gradually fold the dry mixture into the wet ingredients, then stir in oats, mini chocolate chips, and mini M&M’s. Chill the dough for 40 minutes to firm it up. Step 2: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Pan While the cookie dough chills, preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Grease a 9×9 inch baking pan with non-stick spray and line it with parchment paper, allowing some overhang for easy removal later. This step sets the stage for our luscious Monster Cookie Fudgy Brownies, ensuring they bake evenly and do not stick. Step 3: Make the Brownie Batter In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, cornstarch, and salt until evenly combined. In a stand mixer, beat together white granulated sugar, eggs, and egg yolk for approximately 5 minutes until thick and pale. Gradually mix in melted butter, oil, and vanilla extract, ensuring a smooth batter. Finally, gently fold in the dry ingredients along with semi-sweet and milk chocolate chips until just combined. Step 4: Bake the Brownie Base Pour the brownie batter into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes, until the edges are set but the center still looks slightly shiny. This initial bake creates the perfect fudgy foundation for the more chewy monster cookie topping that will complete your Monster Cookie Fudgy Brownies. Step 5: Layer the Monster Cookie Dough Once the brownie base is done, remove it from the oven and let it cool slightly, about 5 minutes. Take the chilled cookie dough and flatten it into thin discs using your hands or a rolling pin. Carefully layer these discs over the brownie base, ensuring even coverage. This step creates the delicious contrast of textures that make these brownies so special. Step 6: Bake the Complete Brownies Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 20-30 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center—the brownie should have no jiggle and a few moist crumbs should cling to the toothpick. If the top begins to brown too much, cover loosely with foil to prevent over-baking. Step 7: Cool and Cut into Squares Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and let the Monster Cookie Fudgy Brownies cool completely at room temperature, about 1-2 hours. This cooling time allows the brownies to set and makes slicing easier—cut them into squares using a sharp knife for clean edges, and enjoy the delightful layers of fudgy brownie and chewy cookie! What to Serve with Monster Cookie Fudgy Brownies Indulging in these decadent brownies opens the door to countless delightful pairings that will elevate your dessert experience. Creamy Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop atop warm brownies creates a dreamy contrast, melting blissfully into every fudgy bite. The cool creaminess enhances the rich chocolate flavors beautifully. Fresh Berries: Pairing with strawberries or raspberries adds a burst of tartness, balancing the sweetness of the brownies. Their freshness brightens every mouthful and adds color to your dessert spread. Whipped Cream: A dollop of homemade whipped cream introduces a light, fluffy texture that complements the chewy cookie topping perfectly. It’s a classic choice that feels indulgent yet simple. Caramel Sauce: Drizzling warm caramel over these brownies amplifies the flavor complexity. The buttery sweetness of the caramel pairs seamlessly with the chocolate and peanut butter, creating a luxurious treat. Espresso or Coffee: Serving a rich cup of espresso alongside adds a grown-up touch that enhances the deep chocolate notes. The bitterness of coffee beautifully offsets the sweetness of the dessert, making it an exquisite pairing. Nutty Chopped Pecans: Sprinkling chopped pecans on top provides delightful crunch and an earthy note that deepens the flavor profile. These nuts harmonize with both the brownie and cookie elements wonderfully. Cold Glass of Milk: For a nostalgic experience, nothing beats a glass of cold milk. It’s the ultimate classic that simplifies the indulgence and makes for a playful experience with that gooey brownie goodness. Chocolate Sauce Drizzle: For the true chocolate lovers, a warm chocolate sauce drizzle takes the brownies to the next level. Gooey and rich, it turns each bite into a delectable experience. Sweet Tea: For those hotter days, pairing with sweet tea offers a refreshing contrast that perfectly balances the richness of the brownies. It’s a delightful way to cool down while treating yourself to something special. How to Store and Freeze Monster Cookie Fudgy Brownies Airtight Container: Store fully cooled brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. This keeps them soft and delicious, ready for your next craving. Freezer: For longer storage, freeze brownies once completely cooled. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then foil, ensuring they last up to 3 months. Reheating: When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw in the fridge overnight or at room temperature for a few hours. For a warm treat, microwave individual squares for about 10-15 seconds. Avoid Stacking: When storing, avoid stacking the brownies to maintain their texture and prevent them from sticking together, keeping your Monster Cookie Fudgy Brownies in perfect condition! Expert Tips for Monster Cookie Fudgy Brownies Egg Temperature Matters: Make sure your eggs are at room temperature. This helps the ingredients meld together better, leading to a more cohesive batter for your Monster Cookie Fudgy Brownies. Measuring Flour: When measuring flour, spoon it directly into the measuring cup instead of scooping. This prevents excess flour, which can make the brownies dry and dense. Chill the Cookie Dough: After making the cookie dough, chilling it for 40 minutes is crucial. It firms up the mixture, preventing it from spreading too much while baking. Don’t Rush Cooling: Allow the brownies to cool completely before cutting. This ensures clean edges and prevents gooeyness, making them easier to serve and enjoy. Adjust for Altitude: If baking at a high altitude, increase the flour by 1/2 tablespoon for both the brownie and cookie layers to ensure the best texture. Monster Cookie Fudgy Brownies Variations Feel free to play with these delightful brownies and make them your own with these fun twists! Nutty Upgrade: Incorporate walnuts or pecans for a satisfying crunch that balances the fudginess. Fruity Delight: Add dried fruits like cranberries or raisins for a sweet and chewy contrast in each bite. Cookie Butter Fusion: Swap out peanut butter for cookie butter for a deliciously unique flavor that’s hard to resist. Flavorful Extracts: Experiment with different extracts, such as almond or hazelnut, to elevate the flavor profile of your brownies. Oat Alternative: For a heartier texture, replace quick oats with steel-cut oats in the cookie layer; they’ll offer an exciting chewiness. Chocolate Variations: Feel free to use dark chocolate chips instead of semi-sweet for a more decadent experience. Spicy Kick: Mix in a pinch of cinnamon or even some cayenne pepper for a surprising heat that complements the sweetness beautifully. Vegan Version: Use flaxseed meal as an egg substitute and coconut oil to make these brownies completely vegan-friendly while still being utterly satisfying. There are so many ways to enjoy these Monster Cookie Fudgy Brownies! If you want to explore more indulgent treats, check out my delicious Pistachio Dream Cookie recipe for another delightful dessert experience! Make Ahead Options These Monster Cookie Fudgy Brownies are an excellent choice for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a homemade dessert without the last-minute rush. You can prepare the Monster Cookie Dough up to 24 hours in advance; simply mix the ingredients and refrigerate the dough to maintain its freshness and prevent browning. Additionally, you can make the brownie batter and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to bake, spread the brownie batter in the pan, layer the chilled cookie dough over it, and proceed with baking as directed. This efficient preparation not only saves you time but ensures your brownies are just as delicious when it’s time to indulge! Monster Cookie Fudgy Brownies Recipe FAQs How do I select ripe ingredients for my Monster Cookie Fudgy Brownies? Absolutely! When it comes to selecting ingredients, opt for peanut butter that’s smooth and creamy, with no added sugars for the best flavor. For eggs, fresh ones at room temperature work best, as they help create a fluffier batter. Look for chocolate chips that are at least semi-sweet, as they will bring out the rich taste of the brownies. If using oats, choose quick oats for that perfect chewiness; they should appear whole and not broken down too much. How should I store my Monster Cookie Fudgy Brownies, and how long do they last? Very good question! Once fully cooled, store your Monster Cookie Fudgy Brownies in an airtight container at room temperature, where they will remain fresh for up to 5 days. To maintain their soft texture and flavor, keep them away from direct sunlight or moisture—honestly, I keep them in a cool, dark cupboard! Can I freeze Monster Cookie Fudgy Brownies, and if so, how? Absolutely! To freeze your brownies, first let them cool completely after baking. Then, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap—this step ensures no air gets in, which can cause freezer burn. After that, place the wrapped brownies in a freezer-safe bag or container for extra protection. They can be frozen for up to 3 months! When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply thaw them in the fridge overnight or at room temperature for a few hours. A quick 10-15 second zap in the microwave adds a lovely touch of warmth too! What troubleshooting tips can you give if my brownies come out too dry? Great question! If your brownies turn out dry, it could be due to overbaking. To prevent this, keep an eye on them during the baking process; once a toothpick comes out with a few moist crumbs, they’re done! Also, ensure you’re measuring flour accurately—spooning it into your measuring cup helps avoid excess. Lastly, if you’re baking in a high-altitude area, you may need to add a bit more liquid or fat to maintain moisture. Are there any dietary considerations for making Monster Cookie Fudgy Brownies? Absolutely! These brownies can cater to various dietary needs with a few easy swaps. For a nut-free version, substitute peanut butter with sunflower seed butter. If you want them to be dairy-free, simply replace unsalted butter with a vegan butter alternative. For gluten-free options, use gluten-free all-purpose flour for both the brownie base and cookie layer. And of course, always check for allergies with friends or family to keep everyone safe while indulging in these delicious treats! Monster Cookie Fudgy Brownies That Will Wow Your Taste Buds Delight in the luscious flavors of Monster Cookie Fudgy Brownies, a playful fusion of rich brownies and chewy monster cookies. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 40 minutes minsCook Time 35 minutes minsCooling Time 2 hours hrsTotal Time 3 hours hrs 15 minutes mins Servings: 12 squaresCourse: DessertsCuisine: AmericanCalories: 250 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Brownie Base1 cup White Granulated Sugar Can substitute with coconut sugar.2 large Eggs Substitute with flaxseed meal if needed.1 large Egg Yolk Enhances richness.1/2 cup Unsalted Butter Can swap with vegan butter.1/4 cup Oil (Canola or Vegetable) Melted coconut oil works as an alternative.1 tsp Pure Vanilla Extract No substitutions needed.1 cup All-Purpose Flour Gluten-free all-purpose flour can be used.1/3 cup Unsweetened Cocoa Powder (Dutch Process) Regular cocoa powder can be used if Dutch process is unavailable.1 tblsp Cornstarch Use arrowroot powder as a substitute if unavailable.1/4 tsp Salt Sea salt can be used as an alternative.1 cup Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips Opt for dark chocolate chips for a richer taste.1/2 cup Milk Chocolate Chips Can substitute with more semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips.For the Monster Cookie Topping1/2 cup All-Purpose Flour Gluten-free alternative is available.1 tblsp Cornstarch Use substitutes as needed from above.1 tsp Baking Soda1 tsp Baking Powder1/4 tsp Salt Use substitutes as needed.1/2 cup Unsalted Butter Can substitute with vegan butter.1/2 cup Brown Sugar No direct substitution, but can use coconut sugar.1/4 cup White Granulated Sugar Can swap with coconut sugar.1/2 cup Peanut Butter Substitute with sunflower seed butter for a nut-free option.1 cup Quick Oats Steel-cut oats can be used for a heartier texture.1/2 cup Mini Chocolate Chips1/2 cup Mini M&M's Substitute with any preferred chocolate candies. Equipment mixing bowlswhiskStand MixerBaking Panparchment paperspatula Method Step-by-Step InstructionsIn a mixing bowl, combine flour, cornstarch, baking soda, baking powder, and salt, whisking until well mixed. In another bowl, cream together softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar for about 3-4 minutes until fluffy. Add peanut butter, vanilla extract, and egg, mixing until smooth. Gradually fold the dry mixture into the wet ingredients, then stir in oats, mini chocolate chips, and mini M&M's. Chill the dough for 40 minutes to firm it up.While the cookie dough chills, preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Grease a 9x9 inch baking pan with non-stick spray and line it with parchment paper, allowing some overhang for easy removal.In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, cornstarch, and salt until evenly combined. In a stand mixer, beat together white granulated sugar, eggs, and egg yolk for approximately 5 minutes until thick and pale. Gradually mix in melted butter, oil, and vanilla extract, ensuring a smooth batter.Pour the brownie batter into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes.Once the brownie base is done, remove it from the oven and let it cool slightly, about 5 minutes. Take the chilled cookie dough and flatten it into thin discs using your hands or a rolling pin. Carefully layer these discs over the brownie base.Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 20-30 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center.Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and let the Monster Cookie Fudgy Brownies cool completely at room temperature, about 1-2 hours. Nutrition Serving: 1squareCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 32gProtein: 4gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 7gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 30mgSodium: 150mgPotassium: 120mgFiber: 1gSugar: 18gVitamin A: 300IUCalcium: 20mgIron: 1mg NotesChill the cookie dough for 40 minutes to prevent over-spreading while baking. Allow the brownies to cool completely before cutting for clean edges. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
