
If you’re craving the ultimate indulgence that combines the fudgy richness of brownies, the chewy delight of cookies, and the creamy goodness of an ice cream sundae, look no further. This Brownie Sundae Cookies Recipe is a game-changer, delivering all your favorite dessert elements in one glorious bite. Each cookie is packed with deep cocoa flavor, melty chocolate chips, and just the right texture to create a perfect base for your favorite ice cream and toppings. Whether you’re making treats for a family gathering, a celebration, or just because, these cookies will quickly become a staple in your dessert repertoire.
Why This Recipe Belongs in Your Rotation
This Brownie Sundae Cookies Recipe brings together the best of both worlds—brownie and cookie—in a way that’s easy to make and impossible to resist. Unlike typical cookies, these have a fudgy, almost brownie-like texture thanks to the cocoa powder and brown sugar combo. They’re not overly sweet but have a rich chocolatey depth that pairs beautifully with vanilla or any other ice cream flavor you love. Plus, topping them with ice cream, chocolate sauce, and whipped cream turns them into a complete dessert experience with minimal effort.
If you love recipes like Salted Caramel Brownies or are looking to try something new with a twist, these cookies are a must-try. They’re perfect for warm weather gatherings or cozy winter nights. The option to add nuts makes them customizable to your taste, and they’re always a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredient Notes
- Unsalted Butter: Softened butter is key for the perfect cookie texture—creamy and rich without being greasy.
- Brown Sugar: Adds moisture and a subtle caramel flavor that complements the cocoa powder beautifully.
- Granulated Sugar: Balances the sweetness and helps with the cookie’s structure.
- Eggs: Large eggs bind the ingredients and add richness.
- Vanilla Extract: Enhances the chocolate flavor and adds a sweet aromatic note.
- All-Purpose Flour: Provides structure while keeping the cookies tender.
- Unsweetened Cocoa Powder: Use good-quality cocoa for deep, intense chocolate flavor.
- Baking Soda: Helps the cookies rise slightly and contributes to their chewy texture.
- Salt: Balances sweetness and enhances all the flavors.
- Chocolate Chips: Melty pockets of chocolate in every bite; semi-sweet or dark chocolate works best.
- Chopped Nuts (Optional): Adds crunch and a toasty flavor; walnuts or pecans are great choices.
- Ice Cream: Use your favorite flavor for serving. Vanilla is classic, but chocolate, caramel, or strawberry work wonderfully too.
- Chocolate Sauce: For drizzling on top to amp up the chocolate factor.
- Whipped Cream: The finishing touch that adds lightness and creaminess.
Prep & Cook Tools
- Mixing Bowls: For combining your wet and dry ingredients separately.
- Electric Mixer or Hand Mixer: Makes creaming butter and sugar a breeze.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accuracy is key to perfect cookies.
- Spatula: For folding in chocolate chips and nuts.
- Baking Sheets: A good non-stick or lined baking sheet to bake the cookies evenly.
- Parchment Paper or Silicone Mats: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup easy.
- Cooling Rack: To cool cookies completely before serving or topping.
Cooking Brownie Sundae Cookies Recipe: The Process
Step 1: Cream the Butter and Sugars
In a large mixing bowl, beat together 1 cup softened unsalted butter, 1 cup brown sugar, and 1/2 cup granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This usually takes about 3-4 minutes with an electric mixer. The creamed mixture should be pale and smooth, which ensures your cookies will be tender and well-textured.
Step 2: Add Eggs and Vanilla
Add 2 large eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Then pour in 2 teaspoons vanilla extract and mix until fully incorporated. This step adds moisture and flavor depth to your cookie dough.
Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together 1 cup all-purpose flour, 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder, 1 teaspoon baking soda, and 1/2 teaspoon salt. Make sure the cocoa powder is evenly mixed with the flour to avoid clumps.
Step 4: Mix Dry Ingredients into Wet
Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring with a spatula or on low speed until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the cookie texture soft and chewy.
Step 5: Fold in Chocolate Chips and Nuts
Gently fold in 1 cup chocolate chips and 1/2 cup chopped nuts if using. The chocolate chips will melt slightly during baking, creating gooey pockets, while the nuts add a satisfying crunch.
Step 6: Scoop and Bake
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats. Using a cookie scoop or spoon, drop rounded tablespoons of dough about 2 inches apart on the baking sheet. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are set but the centers still look slightly soft. This ensures a chewy, brownie-like texture.
Step 7: Cool and Assemble Your Sundae
Allow the cookies to cool completely on a wire rack. Once cooled, place a cookie on a dessert plate, top with a scoop of your favorite ice cream, drizzle with chocolate sauce, and finish with a generous dollop of whipped cream. Repeat for as many servings as you want, and enjoy immediately.
Fresh Seasonal Changes
- In summer, swap the chocolate chips for chopped fresh berries or add a sprinkle of sea salt on top for a sweet-salty combo.
- During fall, fold in some pumpkin pie spice or cinnamon for a warm, cozy flavor.
- For a festive winter twist, add peppermint extract and crushed candy canes with the chocolate chips.
- Try swapping nuts for toasted coconut flakes for a tropical vibe any time of the year.
Avoid These Mistakes
- Don’t overmix the dough once you add the flour mixture—this can make the cookies tough instead of chewy.
- Be careful not to overbake; pulling the cookies out while they still look slightly underdone ensures they stay soft.
- Use softened butter, not melted, for proper creaming and texture.
- Measure your cocoa powder accurately—too much can make the cookies dry and bitter.
Save It for Later
These Brownie Sundae Cookies Recipe cookies store well in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze the baked cookies for up to 3 months, then thaw at room temperature before serving. You can also freeze the cookie dough balls and bake straight from frozen by adding a couple of extra minutes to the baking time. This way, you always have a quick dessert ready to go!
Common Qs About Brownie Sundae Cookies Recipe
Can I make these cookies dairy-free?
Yes! Substitute the unsalted butter with a plant-based butter or coconut oil that’s suitable for baking. Make sure your chocolate chips are dairy-free as well. The texture will remain fudgy and delicious.
Is it possible to use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose?
Whole wheat flour can be substituted, but it may result in a denser cookie and slightly different flavor. Try using half whole wheat and half all-purpose to keep the texture balanced.
Can I prepare the dough ahead of time?
Absolutely! The dough can be refrigerated for up to 3 days, which actually helps deepen the chocolate flavor. Just bring the dough to room temperature before scooping and baking.
What ice cream flavors pair best with these cookies?
Classic vanilla is a favorite because it balances the rich chocolate. However, salted caramel, mint chocolate chip, or coffee ice cream also make fantastic pairings. Feel free to get creative!
Desserts to Finish
- Salted Caramel Brownies – For a gooey, caramel-infused chocolate treat.
- Cheesecake Stuffed Chocolate Chip Cookies – A luscious twist on a classic cookie with a creamy center.
- Classic Chocolate Fudge Brownies – Rich and decadent, perfect for chocolate lovers.
- Vanilla Bean Ice Cream with Fresh Berries – A light, refreshing complement to rich desserts.
Bring It Home
This Brownie Sundae Cookies Recipe is your go-to when you want the best of brownies and cookies all in one, topped with your favorite sundae fixings. It’s simple to make, incredibly satisfying, and perfect for any occasion. From the fudgy texture and rich chocolate to the creamy ice cream and luscious toppings, every bite brings a smile. Next time you’re craving a special dessert, whip up these cookies and elevate your sundae game instantly. Your family and friends will thank you!
Endlessly versatile and utterly delicious, these cookies are sure to be a beloved addition to your baking collection. Happy baking and even happier indulging!
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Brownie Sundae Cookies Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter softened
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup chopped nuts optional
- ice cream for serving, your favorite flavor
- chocolate sauce for drizzling
- whipped cream for topping
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, beat together 1 cup softened unsalted butter, 1 cup brown sugar, and 1/2 cup granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add 2 large eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Then add 2 teaspoons vanilla extract and mix until combined.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together 1 cup all-purpose flour, 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder, 1 teaspoon baking soda, and 1/2 teaspoon salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined. Avoid overmixing.
- Fold in 1 cup chocolate chips and 1/2 cup chopped nuts if using.
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats. Drop rounded tablespoons of dough 2 inches apart onto the baking sheets.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes until edges are set but centers remain slightly soft for a chewy texture.
- Cool cookies completely on a wire rack. Top each cookie with a scoop of your favorite ice cream, drizzle with chocolate sauce, and add whipped cream before serving.
Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer or hand mixer
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Spatula
- Baking Sheets
- Parchment Paper or Silicone Mats
- Cooling rack
Notes
- Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
- For dairy-free version, use plant-based butter and dairy-free chocolate chips.
- Refrigerate dough up to 3 days to deepen chocolate flavor before baking.