Ultimate Chocolate Cookies

When it comes to chocolate cookies, there’s something truly special about the perfect balance of chewy and gooey, with a rich chocolate flavor that makes you want to reach for just one more. These Ultimate Chocolate Cookies are a chocolate lover’s dream, packed with chocolate chips, chunks, and a sprinkle of sea salt that elevates each bite. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just because, these cookies will satisfy your cravings and impress anyone who takes a bite.

Why You’ll Keep Making It

The beauty of these Ultimate Chocolate Cookies lies in their versatility and indulgence. With a mix of chocolate chips, chunks, and wafers, they deliver an explosion of chocolate in every mouthful. They’re perfect for satisfying a sweet tooth, making them ideal for parties, bake sales, or cozy nights in. Plus, they come together quickly, making them a go-to recipe for any occasion. Once you’ve tried them, you’ll find yourself making these cookies time and time again!

What’s in the Bowl

To create these decadent cookies, gather the following ingredients:

• 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
• 3/4 cup cocoa powder (Dutch processed or unsweetened)
• 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup light brown sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup chocolate chips
• 1 cup chocolate chunks
• 3/4 cup chocolate baking wafers or big chocolate chunks, for pressing on top of cookies
• Sea salt flakes, for sprinkling on cookies

Before You Start: Equipment

Before diving into the baking process, make sure you have the following equipment on hand:

• Large mixing bowl
• Electric mixer (handheld or stand)
• Baking sheets
• Parchment paper or silicone baking mats
• Cookie scoop or tablespoon
• Spatula
• Cooling rack

Step-by-Step: Ultimate Chocolate Cookies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your cookies bake evenly and achieve that perfect chewy texture.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, sea salt, and cocoa powder. Set aside. This step helps to evenly distribute the leavening agents and cocoa throughout the flour.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugars

In another bowl, use an electric mixer to cream together the room-temperature butter, granulated sugar, and light brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This should take about 2-3 minutes.

Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Next, add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, stir in the vanilla extract until well combined. This adds moisture and flavor to your dough.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; you want to keep that tender texture!

Step 6: Fold in Chocolate

Using a spatula, gently fold in the chocolate chips and chocolate chunks until evenly distributed throughout the dough.

Step 7: Scoop the Cookies

Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, drop generous amounts of dough onto lined baking sheets, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie to allow for spreading.

Step 8: Press Chocolate Wafers on Top

For an extra chocolatey kick, press a few chocolate baking wafers or big chocolate chunks into the tops of each cookie before baking.

Step 9: Sprinkle with Sea Salt

Just before placing them in the oven, sprinkle a pinch of sea salt flakes on top of each cookie. This will enhance the chocolate flavor and provide a delightful contrast to the sweetness.

Step 10: Bake the Cookies

Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are set but the centers are still slightly soft. Don’t worry; they will continue to firm up as they cool.

Step 11: Cool and Enjoy

Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack. This will allow them to finish baking and maintain their chewy texture.

Fresh Takes Through the Year

These Ultimate Chocolate Cookies are incredibly versatile, and you can easily adjust them to fit the seasons or your cravings:

• Add a pinch of cinnamon for a warm, spiced flavor during the fall.
• Incorporate peppermint extract and crushed candy canes for a festive holiday treat.
• Mix in nuts like walnuts or pecans for a crunchy texture contrast.
• Substitute some of the chocolate with peanut butter chips for a delicious twist.

Behind the Recipe

The Ultimate Chocolate Cookies recipe is inspired by countless trials and taste tests to achieve the perfect balance of flavors and textures. The combination of cocoa powder, chocolate chips, and chunks creates a triple chocolate sensation that is simply irresistible. The sprinkle of sea salt is a finishing touch that elevates the sweetness and enhances the overall flavor profile. These cookies are a celebration of chocolate in all its glory!

Cooling, Storing & Rewarming

To ensure your cookies stay fresh and delicious, follow these tips:

• Allow cookies to cool completely before storing them in an airtight container.
• Store at room temperature for up to one week or in the freezer for up to three months.
• To rewarm, simply pop them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or in a preheated oven at 350°F for a few minutes.

Ultimate Chocolate Cookies Q&A

Can I use dark cocoa powder instead of regular cocoa powder?

Yes, using dark cocoa powder will enhance the chocolate flavor and give your cookies a richer color, making them even more decadent!

What can I substitute for the butter in this recipe?

You can use a plant-based butter alternative or coconut oil for a dairy-free version. Just ensure it’s at room temperature for easy mixing.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dough in advance and refrigerate it for up to 3 days or freeze it for up to 3 months. Just let it thaw in the fridge before baking.

How do I know when the cookies are done baking?

The edges should be set, and the centers will look slightly underbaked. They will continue to firm up as they cool on the baking sheet.

Quick Weeknight Wins

If you’re looking for other quick and delicious recipes to try, check out these:

• Easy Pancakes – Perfect for breakfast or brunch!
• One-Pot Pasta – A quick and easy dinner solution.
• Moist Banana Bread – Use up those overripe bananas in a tasty treat.
• Healthy Smoothies – Great for a quick snack or breakfast!

Final Bite

These Ultimate Chocolate Cookies are more than just a dessert; they’re a celebration of chocolate that brings joy with every bite. The rich flavors, delightful textures, and perfect balance of sweetness and salt make them a standout in any cookie lineup. Whether you enjoy them fresh from the oven or with a glass of milk, they are sure to become a favorite in your baking repertoire. So grab your apron, gather your ingredients, and let the chocolatey magic begin!