Chocolate Chunk Cookies
There’s something inherently comforting about a warm batch of Chocolate Chunk Cookies, fresh from the oven, with gooey chocolate melting in every bite. These cookies are the perfect balance of chewy and crispy, with a rich buttery flavor that pairs beautifully with the sweet chocolate chunks and the subtle crunch of walnuts. Whether you’re baking for a crowd or just treating yourself, this recipe is sure to impress. Let’s dive into the magic of creating these delightful treats!
Why Chocolate Chunk Cookies is Worth Your Time
Chocolate Chunk Cookies are a classic indulgence that never goes out of style. They’re perfect for any occasion—whether it’s a cozy night in, a holiday gathering, or a simple afternoon snack. The beauty of these cookies lies in their versatility. You can customize them with different types of chocolate, nuts, or even dried fruits to fit your mood or pantry. Plus, the aroma that fills your kitchen while they bake is a reward in itself!
The Essentials
To make the perfect Chocolate Chunk Cookies, you’ll need a few key ingredients:
- All-purpose flour: 2 1/2 cups (354g), scoop and level to measure for accuracy.
- Baking powder: 1 teaspoon to help the cookies rise.
- Baking soda: 3/4 teaspoon for that perfect texture.
- Table salt: 1/2 teaspoon to enhance the flavors.
- Unsalted butter: 1 cup (226g), softened for a rich taste.
- Light-brown sugar: 1 cup (215g), packed for moisture and depth of flavor.
- Granulated sugar: 3/4 cup (150g) for sweetness and a nice crunch.
- Large eggs: 2 to bind the ingredients together.
- Vanilla extract: 2 teaspoons for that irresistible aroma.
- Bittersweet chocolate: 4 oz, chopped into chunks for a deep chocolate flavor.
- Semi-sweet chocolate: 4 oz, chopped into chunks for balance.
- Milk chocolate: 4 oz, chopped into chunks for sweetness.
- Fishers Walnuts: 1 1/4 cups (138g), chopped for crunch and nuttiness.
- Maldon sea salt flakes: optional, for a finishing touch of flavor.
Prep & Cook Tools
To whip up these delectable Chocolate Chunk Cookies, gather the following tools:
- Mixing bowls: For combining dry and wet ingredients.
- Whisk: To mix the dry ingredients effectively.
- Electric mixer: For creaming the butter and sugars together.
- Cookie scoop: For evenly portioning the dough.
- Baking sheets: To bake your cookies to perfection.
- Parchment paper: To prevent sticking and for easy cleanup.
- Cooling rack: To cool the cookies after baking.
Method: Chocolate Chunk Cookies
Follow these simple steps to create your delicious Chocolate Chunk Cookies:
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line your baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and table salt. Set this mixture aside.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugars
In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to cream together the softened unsalted butter, light-brown sugar, and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy.
Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla
Beat in the eggs, one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Mix in the vanilla extract until well combined.
Step 5: Mix in Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix!
Step 6: Fold in Chocolate and Nuts
Gently fold in the chopped bittersweet, semi-sweet, and milk chocolate chunks, along with the chopped Fishers Walnuts, using a spatula.
Step 7: Scoop the Dough
Using a cookie scoop, portion out the dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
Step 8: Sprinkle with Sea Salt
If desired, sprinkle a few Maldon sea salt flakes on top of each cookie dough ball for an added touch of flavor.
Step 9: Bake
Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the edges are golden and the centers look slightly underbaked. They will continue to cook on the baking sheet after being removed from the oven.
Step 10: Cool
Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Easy Ingredient Swaps
If you’re looking to customize your Chocolate Chunk Cookies, consider these swaps:
- Flour: Whole wheat flour can be used for a nuttier flavor and added fiber.
- Butter: Coconut oil or a plant-based butter can be substituted for a dairy-free version.
- Chocolate: Use white chocolate or your favorite flavored chocolate for a twist.
- Nuts: Pecans or almonds can replace walnuts for a different texture and taste.
Insider Tips
- For chewier cookies, chill the dough for at least 30 minutes before baking.
- Rotate the baking sheets halfway through the baking time for even baking.
- Use a mix of chocolate types for a more complex flavor profile.
- Store leftover cookies in an airtight container to keep them fresh for longer.
Refrigerate, Freeze, Reheat
These Chocolate Chunk Cookies can be refrigerated for up to a week in an airtight container. If you want to bake them later, scoop the dough onto a baking sheet and freeze until firm, then transfer to a resealable bag. They can be frozen for up to three months. When ready to bake, no need to thaw—just add a couple of extra minutes to the baking time.
Questions People Ask
Can I use different types of sugar in this recipe?
Yes! You can experiment with different sugars such as brown sugar or coconut sugar, but keep in mind that this may alter the flavor and texture slightly.
What can I do if my cookie dough is too dry?
If your dough feels dry, try adding a tablespoon of milk or water to help bring it together. Sometimes, humidity can affect cookie dough consistency.
How can I make my cookies more chocolatey?
For an extra chocolatey experience, consider adding chocolate chips or chunks to the dough, or even swirling in some melted chocolate before baking.
Why are my cookies flat?
Flat cookies can be caused by too much butter or not enough flour. Ensure you’re measuring accurately and consider chilling the dough to prevent spreading.
The Last Word
Chocolate Chunk Cookies are more than just a treat; they’re a delightful experience that brings joy and comfort with each bite. The combination of rich chocolate, crunchy walnuts, and a touch of sea salt creates a symphony of flavors that is simply irresistible. Whether you share them with friends or keep them all to yourself, these cookies are bound to become a favorite in your baking repertoire.
So gather your ingredients, preheat that oven, and indulge in the deliciousness that is Chocolate Chunk Cookies. Happy baking!
Chocolate Chunk Cookies
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line your baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and table salt. Set this mixture aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to cream together the softened unsalted butter, light-brown sugar, and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy.
- Beat in the eggs, one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Mix in the vanilla extract until well combined.
- Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix!
- Gently fold in the chopped bittersweet, semi-sweet, and milk chocolate chunks, along with the chopped Fishers Walnuts, using a spatula.
- Using a cookie scoop, portion out the dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- If desired, sprinkle a few Maldon sea salt flakes on top of each cookie dough ball for an added touch of flavor.
- Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the edges are golden and the centers look slightly underbaked. They will continue to cook on the baking sheet after being removed from the oven.
- Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
- For chewier cookies, chill the dough for at least 30 minutes before baking.
- Rotate the baking sheets halfway through the baking time for even baking.
- Use a mix of chocolate types for a more complex flavor profile.
- Store leftover cookies in an airtight container to keep them fresh for longer.
