How to Tell When Cookies and Brownies Are Done (2024)

June 3, 2017

There's nothing like a cookie or brownie thats been baked to perfection-not too soft, not too crunchy. These simple tips will help you bake perfectly done treats every time.

Cookies

Check cookies at the minimum baking time. Even one minute can make a difference! Continue checking them every minute until done.
Once they're out of the oven, immediately transfer the cookies from the hot sheet to a cooling rack using a spatula (unless the recipe specifies otherwise). Keeping them on the sheet too long after baking can cause them to get hard or stick to the sheet.
Cookies are done when they are firmly set and lightly browned. When you touch them lightly with your finger, almost no imprint will remain.

Brownies

For cake-like brownies, take them out of the oven when they just begin to pull away from the sides of the pan, or when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
For fudgy brownies, bake within the time range stated in the recipe.
For very moist brownies, take them out toward the minimum baking time. For moist, but less "wet"brownies, take them out toward the end of the time range.

Baking is a delightful science, and achieving that perfect texture in cookies and brownies requires precision. The advice in the article hits the nail on the head. Let's dive into the concepts mentioned and expand on them:

Minimum Baking Time: This is crucial and varies based on the recipe. Checking cookies or brownies at the minimum suggested time ensures they don't overcook. Even a minute can significantly impact the texture.
Continuous Monitoring: Checking the baked goods frequently after the minimum time is key. Cookies and brownies can quickly go from underdone to perfection to overdone in a matter of minutes. This vigilance ensures they're taken out at the exact right moment.
Transfer for Cooling: Moving cookies from the baking sheet to a cooling rack immediately after they're out of the oven prevents them from getting too crispy or sticking. This quick transfer helps in maintaining the desired texture.
Signs of Doneness for Cookies: Cookies should be lightly browned and firmly set. A light touch with your finger should leave almost no imprint. This indicates they're perfectly done.
Brownies: Cake-like Texture: For a cake-like texture, take brownies out when they start to pull away from the sides of the pan or when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. This indicates thorough baking.
Fudgy Brownies: Follow the recipe's suggested time range. For a fudgy texture, ensure they're not overbaked. Removing them toward the minimum baking time keeps them moist and fudgy.
Moist Brownies: Adjust the baking time for the desired moisture level. Towards the minimum baking time gives very moist brownies, while closer to the end of the range provides moist but less "wet" brownies.

Each of these concepts revolves around timing, observation, and understanding the specific texture desired. Baking is both an art and a science, and these tips can help achieve that ideal balance between softness, chewiness, and overall deliciousness in cookies and brownies.