Who can resist the delightful combination of rich chocolate and the subtle sweetness of sugar in cookie form? Chocolate sugar cookies are the ultimate treat for chocolate lovers and cookie enthusiasts alike. These cookies boast a perfect balance of soft, chewy goodness with just the right touch of chocolate flavor. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just indulging a sweet craving, this recipe is an absolute must-try. Easy to make, quick to prepare, and endlessly customizable, these cookies deserve a spot in your recipe book. Let’s get started on creating these delightful chocolate sugar cookies!
Cooking Time
One of the best things about this recipe is how quickly it comes together. Here’s a breakdown of the time you’ll need:
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Chilling Time: 30 minutes
- Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes per batch
- Total Time: Approximately 1 hour
To save time, you can measure and prepare your ingredients while the dough chills. If you’re planning to make these cookies for a larger group, consider preparing multiple trays at once and rotating them in and out of the oven to maximize efficiency.
Quick tip: Make sure you chill the dough. It prevents spreading and helps your cookies stay soft and thick after baking.
Essential Kitchen Equipment
To nail this recipe, you’ll need a few essential tools. These gadgets will not only make baking easier but also ensure your cookies turn out perfect every time.
- Mixing Bowls: You’ll need at least two bowls, one for wet ingredients and another for dry ones.
- Whisk: For combining dry ingredients evenly.
- Electric Mixer or Hand Mixer: This will help you cream the butter and sugar properly, ensuring a light, fluffy texture.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: For accurate ingredient measurement.
- Rubber Spatula: Great for scraping down the bowl and mixing ingredients.
- Baking Sheet: Choose a non-stick or lined baking sheet for even baking.
- Parchment Paper or Silicone Baking Mat: These prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
- Cookie Scoop: A cookie scoop helps you portion dough evenly for same-sized cookies.
- Cooling Rack: Essential to cool your cookies evenly without making the bottoms soggy.
Having these tools on hand ensures smooth preparation and perfect chocolate sugar cookies every time.
Ingredients
This easy recipe uses simple ingredients you likely already have in your pantry. Here’s what you’ll need:
Dry Ingredients
- 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder (opt for high-quality cocoa for richer flavor)
- 1 tsp baking soda
- ¼ tsp salt
Wet Ingredients
- ¾ cup unsalted butter, softened at room temperature
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
Optional Toppings and Variations
- Decorative sugar (for extra sparkle)
- Substitute coconut sugar (for a healthier option).
- Add chocolate chips or crushed nuts for a fun twist.
Feel free to customize your ingredients depending on your dietary preferences or what you have available.
Pro tip: Using quality cocoa powder is the secret to achieving deeper chocolate flavor.
How to Make Chocolate Sugar Cookies Recipe?
Follow these steps to create these irresistible chocolate sugar cookies. It’s simple enough even for beginner bakers.
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line your baking sheets with parchment paper or a silicone mat.
Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients
Whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt in a medium bowl. Set aside.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar
Using an electric mixer, beat the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. This usually takes about 2-3 minutes. Add the egg and vanilla extract, then mix until well combined.
Step 4: Mix Dough
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients. Mix on low speed until a thick dough forms. Avoid overmixing to ensure tender cookies.
Step 5: Chill the Dough
Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This step is essential to keep the cookies from spreading too much during baking.
Step 6: Shape the Cookies
Once chilled, scoop small portions of dough (around 1 tablespoon) and roll them into balls. Roll the dough balls in granulated sugar or sprinkles for an extra fun texture.
Step 7: Bake
Place the cookie balls on your prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches of space between them. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until slightly puffed.
Step 8: Cool
Remove the cookies from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack.
That’s it! You’re just a few steps away from enjoying delicious homemade cookies.
Serving Suggestions
These chocolate sugar cookies are versatile and can be enjoyed any way you like. Here are a few serving ideas:
- Pair them with a cold glass of milk for the ultimate comfort snack.
- Dress them up with frosting or melted chocolate drizzle.
- Enjoy them alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert.
- Serve them at parties as part of a cookie tray with other baked treats.
Whether you keep it simple or get creative, these cookies are guaranteed to impress.
Tips for a Better Recipe
Want to take your cookies to the next level? Here are some tips and tricks:
- Room temperature ingredients: Make sure your butter and egg are at room temperature for easier mixing.
- Chilling the dough: Don’t skip this step! It ensures thick, chewy cookies with beautifully defined edges.
- Add a pinch of espresso powder: A small amount enhances the chocolate flavor without being overpowering.
- Experiment with extracts: Swap vanilla for almond or mint extract for a fun twist.
- Use a cookie scoop: Ensures your cookies bake evenly.
These small adjustments can seriously elevate your baking game.
Nutritional Information
Here’s the approximate nutritional breakdown for one serving (1 cookie):
- Calories: 120
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Protein: 2g
- Fat: 6g
- Sugar: 10g
For a healthier version, substitute part of the butter with applesauce or use coconut sugar instead of traditional sugar.
Storage and Leftover Tips
Don’t worry if you have extras. These cookies store well!
- Room Temperature Storage: Place in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Add a slice of bread to keep them soft.
- Freezing the Dough: Freeze cookie dough balls on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Bake directly from frozen, adding 2-3 extra minutes to the baking time.
- Freezing Baked Cookies: Store baked cookies in a freezer bag or container for up to 2 months. Allow them to thaw at room temperature before enjoying.
Proper storage ensures you can savor your chocolate sugar cookies even days later.
Chocolate Sugar Cookies Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder opt for high-quality cocoa for richer flavor
- 1 tsp baking soda
- ¼ tsp salt
- ¾ cup unsalted butter softened at room temperature
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
- Decorative sugar for extra sparkle
- Substitute coconut sugar for a healthier option.
- Add chocolate chips or crushed nuts for a fun twist.
Instructions
- Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line your baking sheets with parchment paper or a silicone mat.
- Whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt in a medium bowl. Set aside.
- Using an electric mixer, beat the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. This usually takes about 2-3 minutes. Add the egg and vanilla extract, then mix until well combined.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients. Mix on low speed until a thick dough forms. Avoid overmixing to ensure tender cookies.
- Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This step is essential to keep the cookies from spreading too much during baking.
- Once chilled, scoop small portions of dough (around 1 tablespoon) and roll them into balls. Roll the dough balls in granulated sugar or sprinkles for an extra fun texture.
- Place the cookie balls on your prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches of space between them. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until slightly puffed.
- Remove the cookies from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack.
- That’s it! You’re just a few steps away from enjoying delicious homemade cookies.
Notes
- Room Temperature Storage: Place in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Add a slice of bread to keep them soft.
- Freezing the Dough: Freeze cookie dough balls on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Bake directly from frozen, adding 2-3 extra minutes to the baking time.
- Freezing Baked Cookies: Store baked cookies in a freezer bag or container for up to 2 months. Allow them to thaw at room temperature before enjoying.
