As I bit into one of these decadent treats, a wave of nostalgia washed over me—flashbacks of carefree days spent in the kitchen, experimenting with sweet concoctions. Today, I’m thrilled to share my Ultimate Vegan Cookie Dough Brownies with you! This recipe is a delightful fusion of a dense, fudgy brownie layered with rich, creamy cookie dough, all while being completely plant-based and guilt-free. Not only are these brownies a hit among chocolate lovers, but they also come together effortlessly, making them perfect for both seasoned chefs and beginners alike. Plus, they’re a fantastic option for anyone looking to treat themselves without the worry of added dairy and eggs. Are you ready to indulge in a slice of nostalgia that’s so easy to whip up? Let’s dive in and create some edible magic together!
Why Are These Brownies So Irresistible?
Decadent Layers: Each bite reveals a luscious fudgy brownie base topped with creamy, safe-to-eat cookie dough, creating a symphony of flavors that will take you back to your childhood.
No-Bake Magic: This recipe is effortlessly easy, perfect for anyone craving something sweet without the fuss of baking.
Plant-Based Indulgence: With rich plant-based ingredients, you can indulge guilt-free, impressing even non-vegans with their delicious taste!
Crowd-Pleasing Delight: Whether it’s a family gathering, a party, or simply a cozy night in, these brownies will surely disappear in no time. Pair them with a scoop of your favorite dairy-free ice cream or try them alongside our Soft Pumpkin Cookies for an unforgettable dessert spread!
Vegan Cookie Dough Brownies Ingredients
For the Brownie Base
• Cocoa Powder – Provides intense chocolate flavor; use high-quality cocoa for the best results.
• All-Purpose Flour – Offers structure to the brownie; substitute with a gluten-free blend for a gluten-free option.
• Dairy-Free Dark Chocolate – Adds richness; look for high cocoa content for a deeper flavor.
• Dairy-Free Block Butter – Contributes moisture and creaminess; can be replaced with coconut oil for added coconut flavor.
• Aquafaba – Acts as an egg substitute; substitute with flax eggs if you’re out.
• Caster Sugar – Sweetens the brownie; can be exchanged for coconut sugar for a healthier option.
• Dairy-Free Chocolate Chips – Adds texture and chocolatey goodness to both brownie and cookie dough.
• Light Brown Sugar – Provides sweetness and moisture; swap for regular sugar if needed.
For the Cookie Dough Layer
• Heat-Treated All-Purpose Flour – Ensures the cookie dough is safe to eat raw; use heat-treated gluten-free flour if preferred.
• Vanilla Extract – Enhances the overall flavor; opt for pure vanilla for the best taste.
• Dairy-Free Milk – Binds the cookie dough; soy or almond milk works great here.
• Dairy-Free Chocolate Chips – Extra texture and melty chocolate pieces to enhance the cookie dough.
For the Ganache Topping
• Coconut Cream – Creates a silky smooth ganache; use full-fat coconut cream for the best consistency.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Vegan Cookie Dough Brownies
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 180°C (fan) and greasing an 8×8 inch square tin with a bit of dairy-free butter for easy removal later. This ensures that your Vegan Cookie Dough Brownies bake evenly and have a tasty texture.
Step 2: Sift Dry Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, sift together the cocoa powder and all-purpose flour, which helps aerate the dry ingredients for a lighter brownie. This step is crucial to achieving that rich, fudgy foundation. Make sure there are no lumps before moving on to the next step.
Step 3: Melt Chocolate and Butter
Using a bain-marie, melt the dairy-free dark chocolate and block butter together until smooth and glossy, which should take about 5–7 minutes. Stir occasionally to avoid scorching. Allow the mixture to cool slightly before incorporating it into the batter, enhancing the brownie’s richness without cooking the other ingredients.
Step 4: Whip Aquafaba and Sugar
In a separate bowl, whip the aquafaba and caster sugar using a hand mixer until thick and glossy, which usually takes around 5 minutes. This fluffy mixture acts as the binder for the brownies. Gently fold this mixture into the cooled chocolate and butter combination for a well-combined batter.
Step 5: Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients
Carefully fold in the sifted flour and cocoa powder until just combined, being cautious not to overmix. The batter should be thick and rich, and then you can gently incorporate the dairy-free chocolate chips for those delightful bursts of chocolate throughout your Vegan Cookie Dough Brownies.
Step 6: Bake the Brownies
Pour the brownie batter into the prepared tin, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Bake in the oven for 30–35 minutes, checking for doneness by inserting a toothpick; it should come out with a few moist crumbs. Once baked, allow the brownies to cool in the tin, preserving their moisture and richness.
Step 7: Prepare the Cookie Dough Layer
For the cookie dough, first heat-treat the all-purpose flour to ensure it’s safe to eat raw. In a separate bowl, cream together the dairy-free butter and light brown sugar until fluffy. Then, mix in the cooled heat-treated flour, vanilla extract, dairy-free milk, and chocolate chips until a smooth, creamy cookie dough forms.
Step 8: Layer the Cookie Dough
Once the brownies have completely cooled, spread the cookie dough evenly over the top, using a spatula to smooth the surface. This indulgent layer is the heart of your Vegan Cookie Dough Brownies, and the creamy texture will blend beautifully with the brownie base.
Step 9: Make the Ganache
In a small saucepan, gently heat the coconut cream until it’s steaming but not boiling. Pour it over the chopped dairy-free dark chocolate in a bowl, letting it sit for a minute before stirring until you achieve a glossy, smooth ganache. This luxurious layer will bring everything together.
Step 10: Assemble the Final Layer
Pour the ganache over the cookie dough layer, spreading it evenly with a spatula. For an extra touch, sprinkle additional dairy-free chocolate chips on top to create a beautiful finish. Refrigerate the assembled Vegan Cookie Dough Brownies until set, which usually takes about 1-2 hours.
Step 11: Cut and Serve
Once firm, carefully cut the brownies into squares with a sharp knife. Letting them sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes prior to serving will enhance their fudginess. Your ultimate Vegan Cookie Dough Brownies are now ready to be enjoyed!
How to Store and Freeze Vegan Cookie Dough Brownies
Fridge: Store brownies in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2-3 days. This keeps them fresh while allowing you to indulge in deliciousness throughout the week!
Freezer: For longer storage, you can freeze the brownies for up to 3 months. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn, ensuring the rich flavors of the vegan cookie dough brownies are preserved.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, let frozen brownies thaw in the fridge overnight, or leave them out at room temperature for about 1 hour. For a warm treat, microwave individual squares for 10-15 seconds, just until slightly warm.
Room Temperature: If you prefer to keep them out, the brownies can sit at room temperature for up to 1 day, but be sure to cover them to maintain their moisture and flavor!
Variations & Substitutions for Vegan Cookie Dough Brownies
Feel free to get creative and make these delightful brownies your own with a few simple tweaks!
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Flax Eggs: Swap out aquafaba for flax eggs; mix 1 tablespoon ground flaxseed with 2.5 tablespoons water and let it sit to thicken.
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Coconut Oil: Replace dairy-free block butter with coconut oil for a subtly sweet coconut flavor and perfect texture.
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Coconut Sugar: Change caster sugar for coconut sugar to add a rich, caramel-like taste while keeping it healthier.
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Different Chocolate: Use different flavored dairy-free chocolate, like white or milk chocolate, for the ganache to switch up the flavor profile.
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Nutty Twist: Experiment by folding in chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans into the brownie batter for a crunchy texture that pairs beautifully with the creamy layers.
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Dried Fruits: Mix in some dried fruits like cranberries or raisins for a chewy surprise that adds natural sweetness and extra flavor.
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Spice It Up: Add a hint of cinnamon or espresso powder to the brownie batter for an unexpected warmth that elevates the chocolate flavor.
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Make It Gluten-Free: Substitute regular all-purpose flour with a certified gluten-free flour blend, ensuring everyone can enjoy these scrumptious brownies.
With all these exciting variations, you can enjoy a new twist every time you prepare your Vegan Cookie Dough Brownies. For even more sweet ideas, don’t forget to check out our delicious Peanut Butter Cookies or treat yourself to our irresistible Pumpkin Maple Cookies!
What to Serve with Vegan Cookie Dough Brownies
Indulging in these rich, fudgy treats deserves a delightful spread of flavors and textures to create the perfect meal experience.
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Fresh Fruit Salad: A vibrant medley of seasonal fruits adds a refreshing touch, balancing the richness of the brownies with natural sweetness.
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Creamy Coconut Ice Cream: This dairy-free option pairs beautifully, offering a cooling contrast to the warm, gooey brownies. The coconut flavor enhances the tropical vibe!
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Espresso or Coffee: The bold notes of freshly brewed espresso or coffee elevate the chocolate experience, making every bite more indulgent and satisfying.
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Whipped Coconut Cream: Light and fluffy, this dairy-free whipped cream adds a luxurious texture to each slice, enhancing the brownie’s creamy layers.
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Nutty Granola: Sprinkle a bit of crunchy granola on top for added texture. Its nutty flavor complements the cookie dough while providing a satisfying crunch.
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Decadent Chocolate Sauce: Drizzling some warm chocolate sauce over the brownies enhances their richness, transforming them into an even sweeter indulgence.
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Vegan Milkshake: A thick banana or chocolate vegan milkshake creates a comforting pairing, making your dessert a complete treat.
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Chilled Herbal Tea: Freshly brewed herbal tea contrasts beautifully with the brownies, providing a light, refreshing finish to your dessert experience.
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Mini Fruit Pies: Introduce a playful twist with mini fruit pies, allowing guests to enjoy different flavors while the rich brownies steal the show.
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Dairy-Free Whipped Topping: A dollop of this delightful topping can elevate the brownies, adding another layer of creaminess and a touch of sweetness.
Make Ahead Options
These Vegan Cookie Dough Brownies are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the brownie base and the cookie dough layer up to 24 hours in advance, which allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Simply bake the brownies, let them cool in the tin, and cover them with plastic wrap before refrigerating. You can also mix the cookie dough and refrigerate it separately until you’re ready to layer it. When you’re ready to serve, spread the cookie dough over the cooled brownies, whip up the ganache, and pour it on top. Let them set in the fridge for about 1-2 hours, and you’ll have a decadent dessert ready to impress, making your busy weeknights much sweeter!
Expert Tips for Vegan Cookie Dough Brownies
- Whip Aquafaba Well: Ensure aquafaba is whipped to stiff peaks to achieve the perfect brownie texture. Under-whipping can lead to denser brownies.
- Cool Before Layering: Allow brownies to cool completely in the tin; this helps retain moisture and prevents the cookie dough layer from melting.
- Heat-Treating Flour: Always heat-treat your flour before using it in the cookie dough to ensure it’s safe to eat raw; this step is crucial!
- Storage Matters: Cover brownies during refrigeration to avoid unwanted odors; this preserves their fresh taste.
- Serving Tip: Let brownies sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before enjoying. This enhances the fudginess of your Vegan Cookie Dough Brownies!
Vegan Cookie Dough Brownies Recipe FAQs
How do I know when the brownies are baked perfectly?
To check for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center of the brownies. It should come out with a few moist crumbs attached, indicating that your brownies are fudgy and delicious. If the toothpick comes out clean, it may indicate overbaking, leading to a drier texture. A baking time of 30–35 minutes usually hits the sweet spot!
Can I store these brownies, and how long do they last?
Absolutely! Store your vegan cookie dough brownies in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2-3 days. Keeping them refrigerated not only preserves their flavor but also enhances their fudginess. For the best experience, let them sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving.
Can I freeze the brownies?
Yes, you can freeze these tasty treats! Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, ensuring no air is trapped inside. They can be frozen for up to 3 months without losing flavor. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw them in the fridge overnight or let them sit at room temperature for about an hour.
What should I do if my aquafaba isn’t whipping up properly?
If your aquafaba isn’t reaching stiff peaks, don’t worry! Ensure you’re using chilled aquafaba, and beat it until it thickens and becomes glossy—this usually takes about 5 minutes with a hand mixer. If it still doesn’t whip well, using 2 tablespoons of ground flaxseed mixed with 6 tablespoons of water (let it sit for 5-10 minutes) can serve as a great alternative binder.
Can I modify the recipe to accommodate allergies?
Certainly! If you have nut allergies, you can replace the almond milk with oat milk or another nut-free dairy alternative. Also, if someone in your household has a gluten allergy, you can substitute all-purpose flour with a certified gluten-free blend. Just make sure to heat-treat that gluten-free flour for safe cookie dough consumption!
How can I enhance the flavors in my brownies?
The more the merrier! Add-ins are a great way to elevate your vegan cookie dough brownies. Consider incorporating nuts, dried fruit, or even a dash of espresso powder in the brownie mix. Alternatively, using different flavored dairy-free chocolate for the ganache can provide a delightful twist!
Indulge in Decadent Vegan Cookie Dough Brownies Today
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (fan) and grease an 8x8 inch square tin with a bit of dairy-free butter.
- Sift together the cocoa powder and all-purpose flour in a mixing bowl.
- Melt the dairy-free dark chocolate and block butter together using a bain-marie until smooth and glossy.
- Whip the aquafaba and caster sugar until thick and glossy before folding it into the cooled chocolate mixture.
- Fold in the sifted flour and cocoa powder until just combined, then gently incorporate the dairy-free chocolate chips.
- Pour the brownie batter into the prepared tin and bake for 30–35 minutes, checking for doneness with a toothpick.
- Prepare the cookie dough by creaming the dairy-free butter and light brown sugar, then mix in the heat-treated flour, vanilla extract, dairy-free milk, and chocolate chips.
- Spread the cookie dough evenly over the cooled brownies.
- Heat the coconut cream until steaming, then pour it over the chopped dairy-free dark chocolate and stir until smooth.
- Pour the ganache over the cookie dough layer and refrigerate until set, about 1-2 hours.
- Cut the brownies into squares and let them sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving.
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