Chocolate Sugar Cookies Recipe

If you’re looking for a delightful treat that combines the best of both worlds—rich chocolate flavor and the classic texture of sugar cookies—you’ve come to the right place! This Chocolate Sugar Cookies Recipe is a family favorite in my house, and I’m excited to share it with you. These cookies are perfect for any occasion: whether you need a quick dessert for a busy weeknight or a sweet addition to a family gathering, these cookies fit the bill.

What makes this recipe so special is how easy it is to whip up. You won’t even need to chill the dough! Trust me, once you taste that crispy edge and fudgy center filled with chocolate goodness, you’ll want to bake these again and again.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can have fresh cookies ready in no time!
• Family-Friendly: Kids love chocolate, and these chewy cookies are sure to please everyone at the table.
• No Chill Time Needed: Say goodbye to waiting! You can bake these cookies immediately after mixing.
• Rich Chocolate Flavor: The combination of cocoa powder and chocolate chips creates a cookie that’s utterly irresistible.
• Versatile Treat: Perfect for any occasion—birthday parties, holiday gatherings, or just because!

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll be pleased to know that this recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry. Let’s gather what we need for our delicious Chocolate Sugar Cookies!

For the Cookie Dough

• 3/4 cup (170 g) unsalted butter, room temperature
• 3/4 cup (150 g) dark brown sugar, packed
• 1/4 cup (50 g) granulated sugar
• 1 large egg, room temperature
• 1 teaspoon vanilla
• 1 tablespoon molasses
• 2 cups (250 g) all-purpose flour, spooned and leveled
• 1/2 cup (45 g) unsweetened cocoa powder, sifted (I like Hershey’s Special Dark)
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt

For Rolling the Dough

• 1/3 cup (66 g) granulated sugar, for rolling dough

For Extra Chocolate Goodness

• 1 cup dark or semi-sweet chocolate chips (I use Ghirardelli)
• 1 teaspoon coconut or vegetable oil

Variations

The beauty of this Chocolate Sugar Cookies Recipe is its flexibility! Here are some fun variations to try out:

• Add Nuts: Toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans for an added crunch.
• Mix in Spices: A pinch of cinnamon can add warmth and depth to your cookies.
• Use Different Chips: Swap out chocolate chips for white chocolate or butterscotch chips for a unique twist.
• Make Them Minty: Add a few drops of peppermint extract for a refreshing mint chocolate cookie!

How to Make Chocolate Sugar Cookies Recipe

Step 1: Cream the Butter and Sugars

In a large bowl, start by creaming together the unsalted butter, dark brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This step is crucial as it incorporates air into the mixture, giving your cookies that lovely texture. The sweetness from both sugars will enhance the rich chocolate flavor.

Step 2: Add Egg and Flavorings

Next, beat in the large egg, vanilla extract, and molasses until well combined. Each ingredient adds its own touch—molasses gives a deeper flavor while enhancing moisture. This step ensures your cookie dough is perfectly blended.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, unsweetened cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. Mixing dry ingredients separately helps distribute them evenly throughout your cookie dough. This way, every bite will be full of flavor!

Step 4: Bring It All Together

Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined. Be careful not to over-mix; we want tender cookies! This step is key because it allows you to maintain that soft texture we all love.

Step 5: Fold in Chocolate Chips

Now comes the fun part—folding in those dark chocolate chips! They will melt slightly as they bake, creating gooey pockets of chocolate throughout your cookies. Trust me; this is where some serious happiness happens.

Step 6: Roll and Bake

Roll tablespoon-sized portions of dough into balls and then roll them in granulated sugar before placing them on your baking sheet. Baking at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes will give you those perfectly crispy edges with fudgy centers. Keep an eye on them; they’re best when they’re just set!

And there you have it—your very own batch of delicious Chocolate Sugar Cookies! Enjoy them warm from the oven with a glass of milk or save them for later (if they last that long!). Happy baking!

Pro Tips for Making Chocolate Sugar Cookies Recipe

Baking cookies is a delightful experience, and with these pro tips, you’ll be sure to impress everyone with your chocolate sugar cookies!

• Use room temperature ingredients: Bringing your butter and egg to room temperature helps create a smooth batter that combines easily, resulting in a better texture for your cookies.
• Don’t skip the molasses: This ingredient adds depth of flavor and moisture to your cookies, giving them that rich, fudgy center we all love.
• Sift your cocoa powder: Sifting helps eliminate any lumps and ensures an even distribution of cocoa in the dough, which enhances the chocolate flavor throughout the cookies.
• Roll in granulated sugar for extra crunch: Rolling the cookie dough balls in granulated sugar before baking creates a delightful crispy exterior while keeping the inside soft and chewy.
• Keep an eye on baking time: Every oven is different! Start checking your cookies a minute or two before the recommended baking time to ensure they don’t overbake. Look for edges that are firm but centers that still look slightly soft.

How to Serve Chocolate Sugar Cookies Recipe

These chocolate sugar cookies are not only delicious but also visually appealing! Here are some creative ways to present them at your next gathering or cozy night in.

Garnishes

• Sprinkle of sea salt: A light sprinkle of flaky sea salt on top right after baking enhances the chocolate flavor and adds a gourmet touch.
• Chocolate drizzle: Melt some extra dark or semi-sweet chocolate and drizzle it over the cooled cookies for an elegant finish that will wow your family and friends.

Side Dishes

• Milk: A classic pairing! Serve these cookies with a glass of cold milk—dairy or plant-based—for a comforting treat.
• Fresh fruit skewers: Lighten up your dessert table with colorful skewers of strawberries, bananas, and grapes. The fruit’s natural sweetness pairs wonderfully with rich chocolate.
• Vanilla ice cream: For an indulgent treat, serve these warm cookies alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The contrast between hot and cold is simply heavenly!
• Coffee or tea: A steaming cup of coffee or herbal tea makes for a lovely way to enjoy these cookies, enhancing their flavors while providing a cozy atmosphere.

Now you’re all set to bake these amazing chocolate sugar cookies! Enjoy every bite and share them with those you love. Happy baking!

Make Ahead and Storage

These chocolate sugar cookies are not only delightful to eat but also perfect for meal prep. You can bake a batch ahead of time and enjoy them throughout the week or save some for a special occasion.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the cookies to cool completely before storing.
• Place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
• For longer freshness, store them in the refrigerator.

Freezing

• Freeze the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet for about 1 hour.
• Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• To reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place the cookies on a baking sheet and heat for about 5 minutes.
• Enjoy freshly warmed cookies with that gooey melted chocolate goodness!

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about this delicious recipe.

Can I use regular cocoa powder instead of unsweetened cocoa powder in the Chocolate Sugar Cookies Recipe?

Yes, you can use regular cocoa powder. However, unsweetened cocoa powder gives a deeper chocolate flavor that complements these cookies perfectly.

How do I make my Chocolate Sugar Cookies Recipe chewier?

To achieve chewier cookies, try adding an extra egg yolk or reducing the baking time by a minute or two. This will keep the centers fudgy and soft.

Can I substitute the butter in the Chocolate Sugar Cookies Recipe?

Absolutely! You can use coconut oil or any plant-based butter alternative if you’re looking for a dairy-free option without compromising taste.

Final Thoughts

I hope this Chocolate Sugar Cookies Recipe brings warmth and joy to your kitchen! These cookies are not just treats; they are moments of happiness to share with friends and family. Enjoy making them and savor every delicious bite. Happy baking!