Brownie Cookie Sandwiches with Cookie Dough Buttercream

Welcome to the delectable world of Brownie Cookie Sandwiches with Cookie Dough Buttercream! If you’re a dessert enthusiast, this is a treat you won’t want to miss. A fusion of two beloved confections, these brownie cookie sandwiches are the epitome of indulgence. Imagine the chewy richness of brownie cookies paired with the creamy, sweet delight of cookie dough buttercream. Whether you’re preparing for a party, looking to impress your friends, or simply craving something sweet, these brownie cookie sandwiches are the perfect choice. In this article, we’ll guide you through making this luxurious dessert step-by-step, offer serving suggestions, and provide useful tips.

Ingredients

Before you dive into the kitchen, gather the following ingredients to ensure a smooth baking experience:

For Brownie Cookies:

• 1 stick (113 g) unsalted butter
• 1 1/2 cups (255 g) bittersweet chocolate chips
• 3/4 cup (150 g) granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup (100 g) brown sugar, packed
• 3 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup (125 g) all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup (25 g) cocoa powder
• 1/2 tsp baking powder
• 1/4 tsp baking soda
• 1/4 tsp salt

For Cookie Dough Buttercream:

• 1 1/2 sticks (170 g) unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 cup (100 g) brown sugar
• 2 cups (240 g) powdered sugar
• 1/2 cup (65 g) all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 3-4 tbsp milk

Instructions

Follow these steps to craft your own brownie cookie sandwiches with cookie dough buttercream:

1. Prep the Flour

• Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C).
• Spread 1/2 cup of flour on a baking sheet and bake for 5-8 minutes until it reaches 165°F to ensure it’s safe to use raw. Let it cool.

2. Make Brownie Cookies

• Melt the butter and chocolate chips together in a bowl over simmering water. Stir until smooth and let it cool slightly.
• In a separate bowl, mix flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
• Whisk the eggs, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and vanilla extract into the cooled chocolate mixture. Gradually add the dry ingredients until combined.
• Chill the dough for 30 minutes to make it easier to handle.

3. Bake Cookies

• Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
• Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto the sheets, spacing them apart.
• Bake for 8-10 minutes until the edges are set. Let them cool on wire racks.

4. Make Buttercream

• Beat the softened butter and brown sugar until fluffy. Gradually mix in the powdered sugar and flour.
• Add the vanilla extract and milk one tablespoon at a time until you reach the desired consistency.

5. Assemble Sandwiches

• Pipe or spread the buttercream onto the flat side of one cookie, then press another cookie on top. Enjoy your creation!

Nutrition Facts

Here’s a quick look at the nutritional information per serving:

• Calories: 350
• Total Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 11g
• Cholesterol: 60mg
• Sodium: 80mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 45g
• Dietary Fiber: 2g
• Sugars: 30g
• Protein: 4g

Note: Nutritional values are approximate and can vary based on ingredient brands and measurements.

How to Serve

Your brownie cookie sandwiches are now ready to be enjoyed! These delectable treats can be served in various ways to elevate your dessert experience. Here are some comprehensive serving suggestions to enhance your enjoyment:

Chilled Delight

Refrigerating your brownie cookie sandwiches for about an hour not only intensifies their flavor but also gives them a firmer texture that is especially refreshing on warm days. The cooling process allows the chocolate to set slightly, providing a satisfying bite. To serve, you can slice the sandwiches in half to showcase the creamy filling or leave them whole for a more indulgent experience. For an added touch, consider garnishing the plate with fresh mint leaves or a sprinkle of powdered sugar to create an appealing visual presentation.

Drizzle Extravaganza

Transform your brownie cookie sandwiches into a gourmet dessert with a drizzle of chocolate or caramel sauce. For a chocolate drizzle, melt some high-quality dark or milk chocolate and use a spoon or a piping bag to create artistic swirls over the top. If you prefer caramel, gently heat store-bought or homemade caramel sauce until it’s pourable, and drizzle it over the sandwiches. To elevate the experience further, you can add a pinch of sea salt to balance the sweetness and highlight the flavors. This not only enhances the taste but also adds a visually stunning element to your dessert.

Pair with Ice Cream

Taking your brownie cookie sandwiches to the next level is easy when you serve them alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The creamy and cold ice cream perfectly complements the rich, fudgy brownie cookies. For a more adventurous pairing, consider trying different flavors like mint chocolate chip, salted caramel, or even a rich coffee ice cream. You can create an ice cream sandwich by placing a generous scoop of ice cream between two brownie cookies, or serve the ice cream in a bowl with the sandwiches on the side. To garnish, sprinkle some crushed nuts, chocolate shavings, or even a dusting of cocoa powder to add texture and flavor.

Coffee Companion

For those who enjoy a little caffeine with their sweets, pairing your brownie cookie sandwiches with a cup of freshly brewed coffee or espresso makes for a delightful afternoon treat. The rich, bold flavors of coffee perfectly complement the sweetness of the brownies, enhancing the overall experience. You can serve your coffee hot or iced, depending on your preference and the season. For an added twist, consider flavoring your coffee with a splash of flavored syrup, or topping it with a dollop of whipped cream for an indulgent touch. Don’t forget to provide some napkins, as the gooey filling may be a bit messy but is well worth the delightful experience!

Additional Suggestions

1. Decorative Plating: Consider using a beautiful serving platter or individual dessert plates to present your brownie cookie sandwiches. Layering them with berries, such as raspberries or strawberries, can add a pop of color and freshness to the dish.
2. Seasonal Touches: Adapt your serving suggestions based on the season. In autumn, you could incorporate a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg into the whipped cream or drizzle, while in spring, fresh fruits can brighten the dish.
3. Themed Parties: If you’re serving these at a gathering or party, you can create a dessert table where guests can customize their sandwiches. Provide various toppings like chopped nuts, sprinkles, or even flavored whipped creams, allowing everyone to create their unique version.
4. Leftover Storage: If you happen to have leftovers (though they might be hard to resist!), store your brownie cookie sandwiches in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can last for several days and can be enjoyed chilled or at room temperature.

By employing these serving suggestions, you’ll ensure that your brownie cookie sandwiches are not only delicious but also presented in a way that makes them an irresistible highlight at any gathering or a sweet treat for yourself. Enjoy every bite of these delightful creations!

Additional Tips

• Chocolate Choices
• When it comes to selecting chocolate for your cookie sandwiches, the type of chocolate you choose can significantly impact the overall flavor and texture of your cookies. Bittersweet chocolate is highly recommended due to its rich, deep flavor profile, which balances well with the sweetness of the cookies and the frosting. The higher cocoa content in bittersweet chocolate not only enhances the chocolatey taste but also provides a more sophisticated palate experience.
• If you find that bittersweet chocolate is too intense for your taste, semi-sweet chocolate can be an excellent alternative. It has a higher sugar content, resulting in a sweeter flavor that appeals to those who prefer a less intense chocolate experience. You can also experiment with other varieties, such as dark chocolate or even white chocolate, depending on the flavor profile you wish to achieve. Keep in mind that using high-quality chocolate will yield the best results; look for brands that contain at least 60% cocoa solids for bittersweet varieties and around 50% for semi-sweet. Moreover, consider chopping the chocolate into smaller pieces for quicker melting if your recipe calls for melted chocolate.
• Consistency
• Achieving the perfect consistency for your buttercream frosting is crucial for ensuring that it spreads easily yet holds its shape when piped. If your buttercream turns out too thick, which can happen if too much powdered sugar is added or if the butter is too firm, simply add an extra tablespoon of milk or cream. This small adjustment can make a significant difference, creating a smoother, more spreadable frosting.
• On the other hand, if your buttercream is too thin and runny, it may not hold its shape when spread on the cookies. In this case, gradually add more powdered sugar, one tablespoon at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition until you reach the desired consistency. Remember, the goal is to achieve a texture that is light and fluffy yet firm enough to stay in place once applied. Additionally, if you want to enhance the flavor of your buttercream, consider incorporating ingredients such as vanilla extract, flavored extracts (like almond or peppermint), or even a pinch of salt to balance the sweetness.
• Storage
• Proper storage is key to maintaining the freshness and flavor of your assembled cookie sandwiches. Once you’ve created your delightful treats, place them in an airtight container to prevent them from drying out or absorbing any unwanted odors from the refrigerator or pantry. Store the sandwiches at room temperature in a cool, dry place if you plan to consume them within a few days. They can stay fresh for up to three days when stored correctly. If you live in a particularly warm or humid environment, refrigeration may be a better option to maintain their quality.
• Make sure to layer the cookies carefully in the container, using parchment paper between layers if necessary to prevent sticking. Avoid stacking them too high to minimize the risk of them becoming squished, which could affect their appearance and texture.
• Freezing
• Freezing is an excellent way to prolong the life of your cookie sandwiches, allowing you to enjoy them even after a few days. Both the cookies and the finished sandwiches can be frozen without compromising their taste or texture. To freeze the cookies, allow them to cool completely after baking. Then, arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and place them in the freezer for about 30 minutes, or until they are firm. Once frozen, transfer the cookies to a freezer-safe bag or container, ensuring you remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.
• For assembled sandwiches, wrap each one tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. This extra layer of protection helps maintain their freshness and prevents freezer burn. Alternatively, you can place them in an airtight container, but ensure there is enough space between each sandwich to avoid them sticking together.
• When you’re ready to enjoy your frozen cookies, simply remove them from the freezer and allow them to thaw at room temperature for about 30-60 minutes before serving. For an added treat, you can also warm them slightly in the microwave for a few seconds, which will give you that freshly-baked taste and texture. Keep in mind that while freezing can preserve the quality of your cookies, it is best to consume them within two to three months for optimal flavor and texture.

FAQs

Q: Can I make the cookies in advance? A: Absolutely! The cookies can be baked and stored in an airtight container for up to a week. Prepare the buttercream and assemble just before serving for optimal freshness.

Q: Is it safe to use raw flour in the buttercream? A: Yes, as long as the flour is heat-treated as instructed to kill any potential bacteria.

Q: Can I use pre-made brownie mix for the cookies? A: While it’s possible, making the brownie cookies from scratch offers a superior taste and texture. Pre-made mix may not yield the same chewy consistency.

Q: What can I do if my cookies spread too much during baking? A: Ensure your dough is well-chilled before baking. If spreading is still an issue, try adding an extra tablespoon of flour.

Conclusion

Brownie cookie sandwiches with cookie dough buttercream are not only a treat for the taste buds but also a feast for the eyes. Their irresistible combination of textures and flavors makes them a standout dessert for any occasion. By following this guide, you can create these delightful treats in your kitchen and savor the homemade goodness. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a newbie, these sandwiches are an excellent addition to your baking repertoire. So, gather your ingredients and get ready to indulge in this mouthwatering creation!

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