Soft Chocolate Sugar Cookies
Indulge in Chocolate Bliss
Rich, soft, and bursting with deep chocolate flavor, these Soft Chocolate Sugar Cookies are a dream come true for any chocolate lover. With a slightly crisp, sugar-coated exterior and a fudgy interior, each bite is pure bliss.
Why I Love This Recipe
These cookies are incredibly easy to make and always steal the show. The blend of cocoa and sugar creates a rich, chocolaty sweetness that hits just the right note without being overwhelming. They strike the perfect balance with crisp edges and a soft, chewy center. Plus, they’re perfect for making ahead and storing, so you can enjoy them anytime!
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened: Adds richness and moisture.
- 1½ cups sugar: Sweetens the dough and creates that crisp exterior.
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract: Infuses warmth and depth.
- 1 egg: Binds the ingredients together.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: Provides structure.
- ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder: The star ingredient for chocolatey goodness.
- 1 teaspoon baking soda: Helps the cookies rise.
- ½ teaspoon baking powder: Adds a bit of puffiness.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors.
- ¼ cup sugar (for rolling): Gives a delightful crunch.
Directions
- Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (180°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, beat the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the egg and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
- Form the Dough: Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until a soft dough forms.
- Shape Cookies: Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough, roll them in sugar, and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake: Bake for 8-10 minutes or until the edges are set but the centers remain soft.
- Cool and Serve: Let cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy with a glass of milk!
Servings and Timing
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Servings: 24 cookies
- Calories per cookie: 180 kcal
Variations
- Double Chocolate: Add ½ cup of chocolate chips to the dough for extra richness.
- Spiced Chocolate: Mix in ½ teaspoon of cinnamon or a pinch of cayenne for a warm, spicy twist.
- Stuffed Cookies: Place a small piece of chocolate or caramel in the center of each dough ball before baking.
- Gluten-Free Option: Swap the all-purpose flour for a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
- Dark Chocolate Lovers: Use dark cocoa powder for a deeper, bittersweet chocolate flavor.
Storage/Reheating
Store these cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze them in a sealed bag for up to 3 months. To enjoy a warm cookie, microwave it for 10-15 seconds before serving.
FAQs
- How do I make my cookies extra soft?
- Avoid overbaking! Take them out when the centers still look slightly underdone to keep them soft.
- Can I make the dough ahead of time?
- Yes! Refrigerate the dough for up to 48 hours or freeze it in balls for easy baking later.
- Do I need to chill the dough before baking?
- No, but if the dough feels too soft, chilling for 20-30 minutes helps with handling.
- Can I use Dutch-processed cocoa powder?
- Yes! It gives the cookies a darker color and richer taste, though it may slightly affect the texture.
- What can I use instead of butter?
- Substitute with an equal amount of coconut oil or margarine, but the texture may change slightly.
Conclusion
These soft chocolate sugar cookies are perfect for any occasion, whether you’re treating yourself or sharing with friends and family. With simple ingredients and a quick baking time, they’re my go-to recipe whenever I’m craving chocolate. Enjoy every bite!
