why make this recipe
Chocolate cookies are a delightful treat that’s loved by many. Their rich flavor, soft texture, and the gooeyness of melted chocolate chips make them irresistible. Whether you’re baking for a family gathering or just for yourself, these cookies bring joy in every bite.
Making chocolate cookies from scratch is easier than you might think. By following this simple recipe, you’ll create cookies that rival your favorite bakery. Plus, baking at home gives you the freedom to customize to your taste.
equipment needed for Chocolate Cookies
To whip up a batch of chocolate cookies, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools to get started. First and foremost is a stand mixer or a hand mixer, which makes creaming the butter and sugar easy. A large mixing bowl is also necessary for measuring and combining ingredients.
You’ll also need measuring cups and spoons for accuracy, a spatula for folding in ingredients, and a cookie scoop for uniform cookie sizes. Lastly, don’t forget parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to line your baking sheet.
What You Need to Make Chocolate Cookies
- 16 tablespoons unsalted butter (cold, cubed)
- 1-1/2 cups light brown sugar (packed)
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch
- 1/2 cup Dutch process cocoa powder
- 1 cup cake flour
- 1-1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup mini chocolate chips
- 2 cups chocolate chips
- Flaky sea salt (optional)
How to Cook Chocolate Cookies Step by Step
Start by cutting the cold, cubed butter into smaller pieces. In a stand mixer fitted with a whisk attachment, or in a large bowl using a hand mixer, cream together the butter and brown sugar. Mix for about 3–4 minutes until the mixture becomes smooth and creamy, resembling the consistency of peanut butter.
Add in the eggs and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined. Next, incorporate the cornstarch, baking soda, salt, and cocoa powder into the mixture. Be careful to mix until everything is just combined, as overmixing can affect the texture.
Gradually add in the cake flour and all-purpose flour, mixing until no streaks of flour remain. It’s essential to avoid overmixing at this stage. Once combined, gently fold in the mini chocolate chips and regular chocolate chips using a spatula.
After mixing, cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the dough for at least 1 hour. If you prefer a deeper flavor, let it chill overnight. If the dough has been in the fridge longer than an hour, allow it to soften slightly at room temperature.
When ready to bake, roll the dough into balls roughly the size of two tablespoons. Chill those formed cookie balls in the fridge for an additional 10 minutes. This helps them maintain shape during baking.
Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. Space the cookies about 2 inches apart on the sheet. Bake the cookies for 8–12 minutes, leaning towards underbaking for a fudgy texture.
Once out of the oven, if you notice any edges that have spread too much, gently press them back in towards the center using a spatula. For extra indulgence, sprinkle some additional chocolate chips on top and a light dusting of flaky sea salt if desired. Let the cookies rest on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack.
how to make Chocolate Cookies
Making your own chocolate cookies is a straightforward process that yields delicious results. Start with cold, cubed butter and combine it with packed light brown sugar. Beat these together until smooth and creamy, a process that mixes air into the dough for a lighter texture.
Incorporate eggs and vanilla into the creamed mixture, ensuring everything is well combined. Next, add your dry ingredients, mixing carefully to avoid overworking the dough. The key to a gooey cookie is not to develop too much gluten.
After the dough comes together, folding in chocolate chips enhances the cookies with pockets of melted chocolate throughout. Chilling the dough is vital; it helps the flavors meld and the cookies maintain their ideal shape while baking.
When you’re ready to bake, make sure your oven is preheated to the correct temperature. This ensures each cookie is evenly baked, giving you the perfect texture. Watching the cookies closely towards the end of baking will help you achieve the ideal balance of chewy and fudgy.
how to serve Chocolate Cookies
Serving chocolate cookies is simple and versatile. These cookies are perfect warm, fresh from the oven, and can also be enjoyed at room temperature. For an extra touch, you can serve them with a glass of milk, coffee, or even a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
For a special occasion, consider stacking a few cookies on a plate, garnishing with a sprinkle of sea salt or drizzling melted chocolate over the top. This creates a stunning presentation that showcases your baking efforts.
If you’re sharing or gifting these cookies, packaging them in a decorative tin or tied with a ribbon makes them even more appealing. A small note about your homemade treats adds a personal touch that recipients will appreciate.
what to serve with Chocolate Cookies
Chocolate cookies pair well with various beverages and snacks. A classic choice is a cold glass of milk, which balances the sweetness and richness of the cookies. Coffee, whether hot or iced, also complements their flavor perfectly.
For a fun dessert spread, serve the cookies alongside vanilla or chocolate ice cream. A scoop of ice cream sandwiched between two cookies creates a delightful ice cream sandwich. Additionally, you might consider serving them with fresh fruit like strawberries or raspberries to cut through the richness.
Chocolate cookies also make a great addition to a dessert buffet. Pair them with brownies, blondies, or a selection of other cookies to create a delightful treat table for gatherings and celebrations.
how to store Chocolate Cookies
Storing chocolate cookies properly is key to maintaining their deliciousness. If you have leftover cookies, let them cool completely before placing them in an airtight container. They can last at room temperature for about a week, keeping their soft texture.
For longer storage, consider freezing the cookies. Place them in a freezer-safe container or bag, ensuring they are well-sealed. They’ll be good for up to three months in the freezer. When you want to enjoy them again, simply take them out and let them thaw at room temperature.
If you’re storing cookie dough, it’s easy to make ahead. Wrap the dough tightly in plastic wrap and place it in the fridge for up to three days or freeze it for up to three months. When ready to bake, just thaw the dough and follow the usual steps for baking.
tips to make Chocolate Cookies
To elevate your chocolate cookies, here are some tips to keep in mind. First, always use cold butter; this helps create a nice texture and prevents the cookies from spreading too much in the oven.
Be precise with your measurements, especially with flour. Too much can make the cookies dry, while too little can cause them to spread. Using a kitchen scale can help ensure accuracy.
Chilling your dough is crucial. It not only enhances flavor but also helps maintain their shape during baking. If you find your cookies spreading too much, try chilling the balls longer before baking.
Experiment with different types of chocolate chips, such as dark chocolate or even white chocolate, to find your preferred flavor combination. Lastly, don’t be afraid to add ingredients like chopped nuts, dried fruit, or even a pinch of cinnamon for added depth.
variation
There are many ways to customize chocolate cookies to suit your preferences. For a richer flavor, consider using dark chocolate cocoa powder in place of regular cocoa powder. This can deepen the overall chocolate taste.
For those who enjoy a bit of crunch, add chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans. They add texture and contrast to the soft, gooey cookies. If you love a bit of citrus, try adding some orange zest to the dough for a unique twist.
If you’re looking for a fun twist, consider making stuffed chocolate cookies. You can create a pocket filled with Nutella or peanut butter, providing a delicious surprise with every bite.
best time to make Chocolate Cookies
Chocolate cookies can be made any time of year, but certain occasions truly bring out their charm. They’re perfect for cozy winter nights, serving warm alongside a hot beverage. Baking them during the holidays creates a warm, inviting feel in your home.
Back-to-school season is another great time to whip up a batch. Cookies make for delightful lunches or after-school treats. Additionally, they are a wonderful choice for gatherings, parties, or bake sales any time of the year.
No matter the occasion, chocolate cookies bring happiness and comfort, making them a timeless favorite that can be enjoyed at any time.
common mistakes to avoid
When baking chocolate cookies, there are a few common mistakes to watch out for. First, avoid overmixing the dough, especially once you add the flour. This can lead to tough cookies instead of the desired soft and chewy texture.
Be careful with measurements; too much flour can lead to dry cookies. Always spoon flour into a measuring cup and level it off with a straight edge rather than scooping directly from the container.
Another mistake is not letting the dough chill long enough. Skipping this step can lead to cookies that spread too much, losing their shape. Lastly, keep an eye on the baking time; underbaking slightly can lead to deliciously fudgy cookies, but overbaking can make them dry.
nutritional notes
While chocolate cookies are a delightful treat, it’s important to enjoy them in moderation. Per serving, they provide a satisfying burst of energy but can be higher in sugar and fat.
Consider replacing some ingredients with healthier alternatives if you’re looking to indulge with a twist. For instance, you could substitute part of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour or use coconut sugar instead of granulated sugar for a lower glycemic index.
If you’re vegan or gluten-free, you can explore substitutes like flax eggs and gluten-free flour blends to accommodate dietary needs without sacrificing taste.
FAQs
Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted butter?
Yes, you can use salted butter, but be mindful of the additional salt in the recipe. You may want to reduce the added salt accordingly.
How do I know when the cookies are done baking?
Look for the edges to set and the centers to look slightly soft. They will continue to cook after being removed from the oven.
Can I freeze the cookie dough?
Absolutely! You can freeze the dough for up to three months. Just thaw it in the fridge before baking when you’re ready to enjoy fresh cookies.
conclusion
Baking chocolate cookies is an enjoyable experience that yields delicious results. With their rich flavor and gooey texture, these cookies are sure to be a hit with everyone. Whether for a special occasion or simply to satisfy a sweet tooth, this recipe allows for a customizable approach, accommodating different tastes and preferences.
By following this straightforward recipe, you’ll create chocolate cookies that are warm, inviting, and utterly delicious. So gather your ingredients and enjoy the heartwarming process of baking; the cookies you make will bring joy to you and those around you!
Chocolate Cookies
Ingredients
Method
- Start by cutting the cold, cubed butter into smaller pieces.
- In a stand mixer fitted with a whisk attachment, or in a large bowl using a hand mixer, cream together the butter and brown sugar until smooth and creamy, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add in the eggs and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined.
- Incorporate cornstarch, baking soda, salt, and cocoa powder into the mixture and mix until combined.
- Gradually add cake flour and all-purpose flour, mixing just until no streaks of flour remain.
- Fold in mini chocolate chips and regular chocolate chips using a spatula.
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the dough for at least 1 hour, or overnight for deeper flavor.
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C).
- Roll the dough into balls about the size of two tablespoons and chill in the fridge for an additional 10 minutes.
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat and space the cookies about 2 inches apart.
- Bake the cookies for 8-12 minutes, keeping an eye on them to avoid overbaking.
- Once out of the oven, gently press any edges that have spread too much back towards the center.
- Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring to a cooling rack.
