If you have a love for rich chocolate treats and a desire for that perfect balance of fudgy and cakey texture, then you are absolutely going to adore this Brownie Crinkle Cookies with Espresso and Cream Cheese Recipe. These cookies bring together the deep, intense flavor of espresso, the creamy tang of cream cheese, and the irresistible crackled sugary exterior that makes every bite a little moment of bliss. They’re easy to make, delightfully chewy, and have that luscious fudge-like center that will have you reaching for just one more. Whether you need a special dessert for a gathering or a cozy treat to enjoy with your afternoon coffee, this recipe is a true showstopper.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe shines because of its straightforward and essential ingredients, each bringing a unique element to the cookie’s irresistible flavor and texture. From the deep chocolate notes to the smooth creaminess and subtle espresso kick, every component matters.
- Brownie mix (18-20 oz.): Choose a quality dark chocolate mix like Ghirardelli for rich, intense flavor that forms the cookie’s base.
- Flour (½ cup / 60 grams): Adds just enough structure to keep the cookies wonderfully chewy and tender.
- Cream cheese (1 oz., softened): Brings a subtle tang and moist texture to the cookies, making them extra special.
- Espresso powder (1 ½ tsp): Enhances the chocolate flavor with a deep, roasted note without overpowering the sweetness.
- Unsalted butter (½ cup, melted): Adds richness and helps create the fudgy interior we all crave.
- Large eggs (2): Bind everything together and give the dough its perfect consistency.
- Powdered sugar (1 cup): For that classic crinkle look and a sweet, delicate outer coating.
How to Make Brownie Crinkle Cookies with Espresso and Cream Cheese Recipe
Step 1: Mix all the Ingredients
Start by combining the brownie mix, flour, melted butter, espresso powder, eggs, and softened cream cheese in a large mixing bowl. Using an electric mixer, beat everything until the mixture is smooth and fully incorporated. The batter will look luscious and thick. Then, cover and chill it in the fridge for about 30 minutes up to an hour to make it easier to handle and to develop that perfect fudgy texture during baking.
Step 2: Shape and Coat the Dough
Once chilled, scoop out the dough and roll it into balls about 1 to 1 ½ inches in diameter. Next, roll each ball generously in powdered sugar, ensuring every cookie has that beautiful cracked look once baked. Place the coated balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, spacing them about 2 inches apart to give room for spreading.
Step 3: Bake to Perfection
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the cookies for 7 to 9 minutes. Here’s the trick: they shouldn’t be overbaked. It’s perfectly fine if the centers still look slightly wet—this guarantees a soft and fudgy bite. The edges should puff up and begin to set, giving you that iconic brownie crinkle texture.
Step 4: Shape the Cookies (Optional)
Once the cookies come out of the oven, you can use a biscuit or cookie cutter to gently nudge them into nice, even circles if you want a tidier presentation. This step requires a bit of finesse since the powdered sugar coating can scatter, but don’t worry, the signature crinkle look will remain intact.
Step 5: Cool and Enjoy
Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, these brownie crinkle cookies with espresso and cream cheese are ready to become the highlight of your snack time or dessert table.
How to Serve Brownie Crinkle Cookies with Espresso and Cream Cheese Recipe
Garnishes
For a touch of elegance, dust your brownie crinkle cookies with a light sprinkle of extra powdered sugar just before serving. You can also add a few chocolate shavings or a tiny drizzle of melted dark chocolate for that extra indulgence. If you want to highlight the espresso flavor, a pinch of cocoa powder or a few espresso beans on the plate makes for a charming presentation.
Side Dishes
These cookies pair wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream to complement the rich chocolate and tangy cream cheese. For cozy afternoons, serve them alongside a steamy cup of black coffee or a creamy cappuccino to bring out the espresso notes embedded within the cookies.
Creative Ways to Present
Consider stacking the cookies in a rustic mason jar as a gift or arrange them on a dessert platter lined with parchment paper and fresh mint leaves for a pop of color. For parties, create a cookie sandwich by slathering cream cheese frosting or chocolate ganache between two crinkle cookies, turning this homemade treat into a decadent handheld dessert.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once completely cooled, store your brownie crinkle cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. This keeps them soft and fudgy, ensuring every bite stays as delightful as the first. Avoid storing in the fridge unless your kitchen is extremely warm, as refrigeration can dry them out.
Freezing
If you want to keep these treats fresh for longer, they freeze beautifully. Place the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until firm. Then transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag, separating layers with parchment paper. They can be frozen for up to 3 months, so you always have a stash of these brownie crinkle cookies with espresso and cream cheese ready whenever a sweet craving strikes.
Reheating
To enjoy frozen cookies, allow them to thaw at room temperature or warm them gently in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5 to 7 minutes. This quick reheat will bring back their soft, fudgy texture and amplify those fantastic espresso and cream cheese flavors.
FAQs
Can I use homemade brownie batter instead of a mix for this recipe?
Absolutely! Homemade brownie batter can add a personal touch and allows you to control the ingredients, but be sure it’s firm enough to roll into balls and incorporate the espresso powder and cream cheese well for the best results.
What if I don’t have espresso powder on hand?
Instant coffee granules can work as a substitute if you have them, but espresso powder is preferred because it has a more concentrated flavor without bitterness. If neither is available, the cookies will still be delicious, just less intense in coffee flavor.
Why add cream cheese to brownie cookies?
Cream cheese adds a subtle tang and moist richness that keeps the cookies perfectly tender and gives them a unique, luscious texture you won’t find in typical brownies or cookies.
Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Yes! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend suited for baking and ensure the brownie mix is gluten-free as well. This swap will maintain the chewy texture while accommodating dietary needs.
How do I know when the cookies are done baking?
Look for puffed edges that have set and a center that still looks a bit wet or shiny—that’s the secret to a fudgy middle. Overbaking will dry them out, so keep a close eye during the last few minutes.
Final Thoughts
Making these Brownie Crinkle Cookies with Espresso and Cream Cheese Recipe is truly a joyful experience, and the results are nothing short of spectacular. They combine rich chocolate flavor with a hint of espresso and the perfect fudgy-soft texture, making them a guaranteed favorite for any occasion. Trust me, once you try these, they’ll become your go-to cookie to impress friends, family, or just to satisfy your own sweet tooth. So, grab those ingredients and get baking—it’s time to make your cookie dreams come true!
Print
Brownie Crinkle Cookies with Espresso and Cream Cheese Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 9 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 24 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Brownie Crinkle Cookies combine the rich, fudgy flavor of brownies with a crackly powdered sugar coating for a soft, chewy cookie experience. Made from a boxed brownie mix enhanced with espresso powder and cream cheese, this easy-to-make treat is perfect for chocolate lovers looking for a quick yet indulgent dessert.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 1 box brownie mix (18–20 oz) (I used Ghirardelli dark chocolate mix)
- ½ cup flour (60 grams)
- 1 ½ tsp espresso powder
- 1 cup powdered sugar (for coating)
Wet Ingredients
- 1 oz. cream cheese (softened)
- ½ cup unsalted butter (melted)
- 2 large eggs
Instructions
- Mix Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the brownie mix, flour, melted butter, espresso powder, eggs, and softened cream cheese. Using an electric mixer, beat the mixture until it is fully incorporated and smooth. Then, chill the dough in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to 1 hour so it firms up and becomes easier to handle.
- Form the Cookies: Once chilled, roll the dough into balls about 1 to 1½ inches in diameter. Generously coat each ball by rolling it in powdered sugar. Place the coated dough balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart to allow room for spreading.
- Bake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the cookies for 7 to 9 minutes. It’s important not to overbake; the cookies may still look slightly wet in the centers but should be puffed up and set around the edges when done.
- Shape Cookies: Immediately after removing the cookies from the oven, use a biscuit or cookie cutter to gently reshape them into nice, even circles if desired. Some powdered sugar may scatter during this process, but the classic crinkled look will remain.
- Cool and Serve: Let the cookies cool for several minutes on the baking sheet, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy these rich and fudgy brownie crinkle cookies!
Notes
- Chilling the dough is important to make it easier to handle and prevent cookies from spreading too much.
- Do not overbake; the cookies should stay soft in the center for the best fudgy texture.
- Using espresso powder enhances the chocolate flavor but can be omitted if preferred.
- Softened cream cheese adds moisture and richness, giving a unique texture to the cookies.
- For best results, use a premium quality brownie mix.
