Chocolate Lava Brownie Cookies Recipe

These Chocolate Lava Brownie Cookies are the ultimate indulgence—crisp on the outside, gooey on the inside, and bursting with bold chocolate flavor. With a molten center and a fudgy brownie bite, they’re everything you want in a cookie and more.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

If you’re a chocolate lover, these cookies are the ultimate treat. The combination of dark chocolate chunks and molten chocolate in the center creates a decadent dessert experience that will melt your heart. The crispy exterior contrasts perfectly with the gooey interior, making each bite an irresistible delight. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or treat yourself, these cookies offer the perfect balance of texture and flavor.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1 cup dark chocolate chunks (70% cacao or higher)

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter

• 1/2 cup granulated sugar

• 1/2 cup brown sugar

• 2 large eggs

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

• 3/4 cup all-purpose flour

• 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder

• 1/2 tsp baking powder

• 1/4 tsp salt

• Extra dark chocolate squares for filling

• Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)

Directions

1. In a microwave-safe bowl, melt dark chocolate chunks and butter in 30-second intervals, stirring until smooth. Cool slightly.

2. In a large mixing bowl, beat granulated sugar, brown sugar, and eggs until thick and pale.

3. Stir in vanilla and the cooled chocolate mixture.

4. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.

5. Gradually fold dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined.

6. Chill the dough for 30 minutes.

7. Scoop dough, flatten slightly, and place a square of dark chocolate in the center. Wrap dough around the chocolate to seal.

8. Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10–12 minutes.

9. Cool on baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack. Dust with powdered sugar before serving.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: This recipe yields about 12 cookies.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes

• Chill Time: 30 minutes

• Cook Time: 10-12 minutes

• Total Time: 55-57 minutes

Variations

• Nutty Lava Cookies: Add chopped walnuts or pecans inside the dough for a crunchy contrast to the molten chocolate.

• Spicy Lava Cookies: For a twist, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder to the dough for a warm kick.

• White Chocolate Lava Cookies: Swap dark chocolate chunks with white chocolate for a sweeter, creamier version.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, place them in the refrigerator, where they’ll stay fresh for up to 1 week.

• Reheating: To reheat, place the cookies in a microwave for 10-15 seconds or warm them in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for a few minutes to restore their gooey center.

FAQs

1. Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate in these cookies?

Yes, you can, but the flavor will be sweeter. Dark chocolate is recommended for the rich, bold flavor that contrasts beautifully with the cookie’s sweetness.

2. Can I freeze the dough for later use?

Yes, you can freeze the dough! Shape the dough into balls and freeze them on a baking sheet for about an hour. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. When ready to bake, bake directly from frozen, adding a minute or two to the cooking time.

3. What should I do if I don’t have parchment paper?

You can use a silicone baking mat or lightly grease your baking sheet with butter or non-stick spray as a substitute for parchment paper.

4. Can I make these cookies gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free version of these cookies.

5. How can I prevent the cookies from spreading too much while baking?

Chilling the dough for at least 30 minutes before baking helps prevent the cookies from spreading too thin.

6. Can I use margarine instead of butter?

While you can use margarine, butter gives these cookies a richer flavor and better texture. For the best results, stick with unsalted butter.

7. Can I skip the powdered sugar dusting?

The powdered sugar dusting is optional, but it adds a nice touch to the cookies for a more polished look. If you prefer not to use it, feel free to skip it!

8. Can I make these cookies ahead of time for a party?

Absolutely! You can bake these cookies in advance and store them in an airtight container. They’ll remain fresh and delicious for up to 4 days.

9. What other types of chocolate can I use for the molten center?

You can use any type of chocolate you prefer for the molten center, such as milk chocolate, white chocolate, or even a combination of chocolate varieties.

10. How do I know when the cookies are done baking?

The cookies are done when they have a slightly firm edge but are still soft and gooey in the center. Keep a close eye on them, as they bake quickly.

Conclusion

These Chocolate Lava Brownie Cookies are a must-try for anyone who loves rich, chocolatey desserts. The combination of a crispy exterior and a molten chocolate center makes for an unforgettable treat. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just treating yourself, these cookies will satisfy all your chocolate cravings.

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