Brownie Cookie Dough Cups with Caramel Drizzle

Introduction

There’s something magical about combining two beloved desserts into one delectable treat. Brownie Cookie Dough Cups with Caramel Drizzle are a delightful fusion that has quickly become a family favorite in our household. The first time I made these, I was met with smiles and compliments from everyone at the table. The soft brownie base pairs perfectly with the chewy cookie dough filling, while the caramel drizzle adds that extra touch of indulgence. They’re easy to make, and the results are nothing short of impressive. Whether for a special occasion or a casual family night, these treats are sure to satisfy any sweet tooth.

Ingredients

• For the Brownie Cups:
  • 1 box brownie mix (plus ingredients required on the box)
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
• For the Cookie Dough Filling:
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips
• For the Caramel Drizzle:
  • 1/2 cup caramel sauce (for drizzling)

Instructions

1. Prepare Brownies:
   • Preheat your oven according to the brownie mix package instructions.
   • Prepare the brownie mix as directed on the box, adding any required ingredients (usually eggs, oil, and water).
   • Grease a muffin tin and pour the brownie batter into each cup, filling them about halfway.
   • Bake according to the package instructions, usually around 20-25 minutes, until a toothpick inserted comes out with a few moist crumbs.
   • Let the brownie cups cool completely in the tin.
2. Make Cookie Dough:
   • In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until the mixture is smooth and fluffy.
   • Stir in the all-purpose flour, vanilla extract, and salt until everything is well combined.
   • Fold in the mini chocolate chips to create a delicious cookie dough.
3. Assemble Cups:
   • Once the brownie cups are completely cooled, use a spoon to create a small indent in the center of each brownie.
   • Fill each indent with a scoop of cookie dough, packing it in gently.
4. Drizzle Caramel:
   • Warm the caramel sauce slightly in the microwave to make it more pourable.
   • Drizzle the warm caramel over each filled brownie cup generously.
5. Serve:
   • Enjoy your Brownie Cookie Dough Cups with a delicious caramel drizzle, either immediately or after chilling in the fridge for a bit!

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

• Servings: 12
• Calories: 250
• Total Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Cholesterol: 35mg
• Sodium: 150mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 34g
• Dietary Fiber: 1g
• Sugars: 18g
• Protein: 3g

Preparation Time

• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25-30 minutes

How to Serve

• Serve these brownie cookie dough cups on a platter for a party or gathering.
• Pair them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert.
• Drizzle extra caramel sauce on top for an even sweeter treat.
• Garnish with whipped cream and chocolate shavings for a more decadent presentation.
• Enjoy them warm or chilled based on your preference.

Additional Tips

1. Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on the brownie cups to ensure they remain moist. Overbaking can lead to a dry texture.
2. Chill Cookie Dough: If the cookie dough is too soft, refrigerate it for about 15-20 minutes before filling the brownie cups.
3. Use Quality Ingredients: For the best flavor, opt for high-quality chocolate chips and caramel sauce.
4. Experiment with Flavors: Consider adding nuts or different chocolate flavors to the cookie dough for a unique twist.
5. Make Ahead: You can prepare the brownie cups and cookie dough ahead of time; just assemble and drizzle before serving.

Recipe Variations

• Nutty Delight: Add chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans to the cookie dough for added crunch.
• Peanut Butter Swirl: Incorporate peanut butter chips into the cookie dough or drizzle with melted peanut butter instead of caramel.
• Mint Chocolate: Add a few drops of peppermint extract to the cookie dough for a minty twist, especially delightful during the holidays.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free brownie mix and all-purpose gluten-free flour to make this treat gluten-free.
• Dairy-Free: Substitute the butter with a dairy-free alternative and use dairy-free chocolate chips.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve these cups alongside a rich hot chocolate or a festive coffee drink for a perfect treat during the holidays.
• They can also be a great addition to a dessert table at parties or family gatherings.
• Package them in cute boxes for a delightful homemade gift for friends and family.

Freezing and Storage

• Storage: Keep these brownie cookie dough cups in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: If you want to make them ahead of time, freeze the assembled brownie cups without the caramel drizzle. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe container. To serve, thaw in the refrigerator and drizzle with warm caramel before enjoying.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use homemade brownie batter instead of a mix?
   • Yes, you can make your favorite brownie recipe from scratch instead of using a box mix.
2. How do I prevent the cookie dough from spreading?
   • Make sure to chill the cookie dough before using it if it feels too soft.
3. Can I use different types of chocolate chips?
   • Absolutely! Feel free to use dark chocolate, white chocolate, or even butterscotch chips.
4. Is it safe to eat the cookie dough?
   • This recipe uses heat-treated flour and butter, making it safe to eat.
5. How can I make this recipe vegan?
   • Use a vegan brownie mix, dairy-free butter, and substitute the eggs with flax eggs.
6. What can I use instead of caramel sauce?
   • You can use chocolate sauce or a fruit sauce as a drizzle instead of caramel.
7. Can I store these in the fridge?
   • Yes, they can be stored in the fridge for up to a week, though they are best enjoyed fresh.
8. How many brownie cups does this recipe make?
   • This recipe yields about 12 brownie cookie dough cups.
9. What should I do if my brownie cups overflow?
   • If they overflow, simply trim off the excess brownie once cooled to create a flat top for filling.
10. Can I prepare these ahead of time?

• Yes, you can prepare the brownie cups and cookie dough in advance, just assemble and drizzle just before serving.

Conclusion

Brownie Cookie Dough Cups with Caramel Drizzle are an irresistible treat that combines the best of both worlds: fudgy brownies and chewy cookie dough. This simplified recipe ensures you can whip them up without too much hassle while still impressing your family and friends. Whether it’s for a special occasion or just a sweet craving, these delightful cups are bound to be a hit. So, gather your ingredients and get ready to indulge in these deliciously decadent treats!

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