Dirty Dough Cookies Franchise FDD, Profits & Costs (2025)
Dirty Dough Cookies is a rapidly expanding dessert franchise that first opened its doors in Tempe, Arizona, in 2018. Guided by the slogan “it’s what’s on the inside that counts,” the brand has become known for its thick, layered cookies filled with rich, gooey centers and creative flavor profiles.
Now based in Lindon, Utah, Dirty Dough operates under Dirty Dough Franchising LLC, established in 2021. That same year, the company launched its franchising program and quickly grew its presence across the United States.
The franchise stands out for its innovative cookie concept and bold, playful branding. Rather than offering traditional cookies, Dirty Dough creates indulgent cookie “bombs” loaded with layers, fillings, and mix-ins for a truly decadent treat.
With weekly rotating flavors and a visually striking presentation, the brand has built a loyal following. Its modern, tech-driven model — including a user-friendly mobile app and digital in-store displays — enhances convenience and customer engagement.
Initial Investment
How much does it cost to start a Dirty Dough Cookies franchise? It costs on average between $162,000 – $428,000 to start a Dirty Dough Cookies franchised restaurant.
This includes expenses for construction, equipment, signage, inventory, and initial operating costs. The total investment varies based on several factors, such as the store size, geographic location, lease terms, and local market conditions. Costs may also differ depending on whether the franchisee decides to lease or build out their Dirty Dough Cookies location.
| Type of Expenditure | Amount |
|---|---|
| Initial franchise fee | $49,500 |
| Initial training fee | $500 |
| Initial training expenses | $0 – $3,500 |
| Equipment, fixtures and décor | $60,000 – $98,000 |
| POS system, hardware, and software | $1,300 – $3,000 |
| Camera system | $800 – $4,900 |
| Signs | $6,000 – $28,000 |
| Grand opening marketing and promotion | $3,000 – $4,000 |
| Site review fee | $500 |
| Real estate improvements | $25,000 – $150,000 |
| 3-Months of lease payments | $2,500 – $21,000 |
| Lease deposit | $1,500 – $8,000 |
| Architectural/Engineering fees | $4,500 – $14,000 |
| Initial order of cookie dough and toppings | $2,000 – $25,000 |
| Opening inventory | $2,500 – $5,000 |
| Miscellaneous opening costs | $500 – $3,000 |
| Additional funds | $1,500 – $10,000 |
| Total | $161,600 – $427,900 |
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many Dirty Dough Cookies locations are there?
According to most recent data, the Dirty Dough Cookies brand has 13 franchised locations currently open in the United States.
What is the total investment required to open a Dirty Dough Cookies franchise?
The total investment required to open a Dirty Dough Cookies franchise ranges from $162,000 to $428,000.
What are the ongoing fees for a Dirty Dough Cookies franchise?
Franchisees of Dirty Dough Cookies pay a royalty fee ranging from 6% to 7% of their gross sales. In addition, they contribute around 4% of gross sales toward marketing and brand fund expenses.
Who owns Dirty Dough Cookies?
The Dirty Dough Cookies franchise is owned by Dirty Dough Franchising LLC, based in Lindon, Utah.
Disclaimer
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