Chocolate Sugar Cookies Recipe

If you’re craving a delightful twist on classic sweets, this Chocolate Sugar Cookies Recipe is absolutely the way to go. Rich with deep cocoa flavor yet perfectly balanced with sweetness and a little crunch from the turbinado sugar coating, these cookies combine the best of both worlds. Each bite melts with creamy chocolate chunks inside, offering a luscious chocolate experience that feels both nostalgic and luxuriously fresh. They’re simple to make, irresistibly delicious, and sure to become a cherished favorite whether you’re baking for the family or bringing something special to a gathering.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Don’t let the short list fool you—each ingredient is carefully chosen to bring out the ideal chocolate cookie experience. From the natural cocoa powder that ensures a deep, authentic chocolate taste to the Crisco shortening that gives these cookies their buttery texture without excess grease, every component plays a vital part.

• 1¾ cups all-purpose flour (210 grams): The sturdy base that holds the cookies together while keeping them tender.
• ½ cup natural unsweetened cocoa powder (42 grams): Provides that rich, chocolatey depth that makes these cookies unforgettable.
• ¾ teaspoon baking soda: Helps the cookies rise and develop a light, airy texture.
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the chocolate flavor.
• 1 cup Crisco shortening (184 grams, room temperature): Adds a lovely, soft bite without the heaviness of butter.
• 1¾ cups granulated sugar (350 grams): Sweetens perfectly and contributes to a slight crisp on the outside.
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract (4 grams): Elevates all the flavors with its warm and fragrant notes.
• 1 large egg (50 grams, room temperature): Binds the ingredients and adds moisture for softness.
• 1 cup milk chocolate chunks (170 grams, plus more for garnish): Melt-in-your-mouth pockets of richness throughout every cookie.
• 1 cup coarse turbinado sugar (200 grams): Creates a sparkling, crunchy coating that makes every bite exciting.

How to Make Chocolate Sugar Cookies Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Workspace

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent any sticking, ensuring your cookies bake evenly and slide off effortlessly.

Step 2: Combine the Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and kosher salt until everything is evenly mixed. This step is crucial for distributing the leavening agent and salt so your cookies rise beautifully.

Step 3: Cream the Shortening and Sugar

Using a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, beat the Crisco shortening and granulated sugar on medium speed until light and fluffy. This usually takes about 2 minutes and develops a nice airy texture that will help your cookies become soft yet structured.

Step 4: Add Vanilla and Egg

With the mixer running, add the vanilla extract and egg, increasing to medium-high speed. Beat until the mixture is smooth and fluffy, which enhances the cookies’ texture and infuses flavor.

Step 5: Incorporate Dry Ingredients and Chocolate Chunks

Lower the mixer to medium-low and gradually add the dry flour mixture one cup at a time. Let the dough become smooth before adding more. When all the flour is incorporated, fold in the milk chocolate chunks gently on low speed, distributing them evenly throughout the dough.

Step 6: Prepare Turbinado Sugar Coating

Pour the coarse turbinado sugar into a medium bowl ready for rolling your dough balls. This sugary coating will give the cookies a stunning sparkling finish and a delicate crunch.

Step 7: Shape and Sugar Coat

Roll the dough into 1-inch balls, then roll each one thoroughly in the turbinado sugar to coat all sides. Place them on your parchment-lined baking sheet at least 2 inches apart to allow spreading. Use the bottom of a glass to gently flatten each ball to about half an inch thick—you want your cookies thick enough to remain soft with a slight crackly surface.

Step 8: Bake to Perfection

Bake the cookies for 10 to 12 minutes. You’ll notice the tops puff up a bit and start to crack gently—that’s when you know they’re ready. Avoid overbaking so they stay tender inside.

Step 9: Add Extra Chocolate

Once out of the oven, quickly press a few additional chocolate chunks on top while the cookies are still warm to add gooey pockets of molten chocolate and an extra visual wow factor.

How to Serve Chocolate Sugar Cookies Recipe

Garnishes

These cookies look divine simply dusted with a little powdered sugar or a sprinkle of flaky sea salt to enhance the chocolate’s depth. For festive flair, try adding some mini chocolate chips or colorful sprinkles immediately after baking.

Side Dishes

Pair these rich chocolate sugar cookies with a tall glass of cold milk, a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or a warm cup of coffee or hot cocoa. The creamy beverages complement the chocolate perfectly and create a comforting snack or dessert experience.

Creative Ways to Present

Stack the cookies into neat towers tied with twine for gift-giving or arrange them on a decorative platter with a scattering of fresh berries and mint leaves to brighten up your dessert table. You can also sandwich them with your favorite frosting or jam for an indulgent bite.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days to maintain their chewy texture and fresh flavor. Make sure to separate layers with parchment paper to avoid sticking.

Freezing

You can freeze these dough balls before baking by rolling them and coating with turbinado sugar, then placing them on a tray to freeze solid. Transfer to a freezer-safe bag, and when ready to bake, add an extra minute or two to the baking time. Baked cookies freeze well too—just wrap them tightly and thaw at room temperature.

Reheating

To revive the fresh-baked warmth, warm cookies in a microwave for 10-15 seconds or pop them in a preheated oven at 300°F for 5 minutes. This softens the chocolate chunks and renews that blissful just-baked feeling.

FAQs

Can I substitute butter for the Crisco shortening?

Yes, butter can be used but it may change the texture slightly. The cookies will be richer but might spread more and be less tender. Using shortening helps keep a soft, cakey bite that holds its shape beautifully.

What is the role of turbinado sugar in this recipe?

Turbinado sugar adds a sparkling, crunchy coating that contrasts the soft interior, creating a lovely texture and enhancing the visual appeal of each cookie.

Can I use dark or bittersweet chocolate chunks instead of milk chocolate?

Absolutely! Dark chocolate offers a more intense, slightly less sweet flavor that goes wonderfully with the cocoa in the dough, if you prefer your cookies less sweet or with a robust chocolate punch.

How thick should I flatten the cookie dough balls?

Flatten each dough ball to about half an inch thick. This thickness ensures they bake through evenly while remaining soft and chewy inside with a slightly crisp exterior.

Can I make these cookies gluten-free?

You can substitute a gluten-free 1-to-1 baking flour blend, but be aware it might slightly alter the texture. Look for blends that contain xanthan gum for best results.

Final Thoughts

If you love a chocolate treat that’s both timeless and irresistible, you absolutely need to try this Chocolate Sugar Cookies Recipe. The balance of textures and deep cocoa flavor make it a standout on any cookie plate. Whether you’re sharing with friends or indulging on your own, these cookies bring warmth and joy to every bite. Happy baking!

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