01 - Preheat oven to 350°F. Line an 8x8 inch baking pan with parchment paper, allowing slight overhang for easy removal.
02 - In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, brown sugar, baking powder, and salt until well combined. Pour in melted coconut oil or vegan butter, plant milk, and vanilla extract. Stir until just combined—do not overmix. Fold in dark chocolate chips.
03 - Transfer brownie batter to prepared pan. Using a spatula or offset knife, spread evenly across the bottom, pressing gently into corners.
04 - In a separate bowl, beat softened vegan butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, approximately 2 minutes. Add plant milk and vanilla extract, mixing until incorporated.
05 - Add flour, baking soda, and salt to the butter mixture. Stir until just combined—dough will be thick. Fold in chocolate chips until evenly distributed.
06 - Carefully drop spoonfuls of cookie dough over the brownie layer. Using damp fingertips or a spatula, gently spread to cover the brownie batter completely, creating an even top layer.
07 - Bake for 30–35 minutes until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. The edges should be set but the center slightly soft.
08 - Allow to cool completely in the pan, at least 2 hours. Using parchment overhang, lift out and cut into 12 equal squares. For cleanest cuts, chill briefly before slicing.