29 Ingenious Brownie and Cookie Mix-Ins

The Stealth Flavor Makers

Powders and zests won't change the texture of the finished brownie or cookie much, but they'll radically transform the taste, even when you use them in small amounts. Stir in 1 to 3 teaspoons of cinnamon, chili powder (ancho is particularly nice; it has a mild heat and fruitlike sweetness), ground or freshly grated ginger, or instant espresso powder. Lemon or orange zest also works well—especially in cookies that contain dark chocolate instead of semisweet.