Double Chocolate Crinkle Cookies

Double chocolate crinkle cookies are a delightful treat that combines the rich taste of dark chocolate with a soft, chewy texture. These cookies are perfect for any occasion, be it a cozy night in or a festive gathering. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll take you through every step of making these delectable cookies, discuss the nutritional benefits, and provide tips to ensure your cookies come out perfectly every time.

Introduction

There’s something magical about biting into a freshly baked cookie that’s both soft and chewy, with a hint of crunch from the sugary coating. Double chocolate crinkle cookies offer just that, with an irresistible combination of cocoa and chocolate chips, making them a chocolate lover’s dream. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner, this recipe is straightforward and rewarding.

These cookies are not only delicious but also visually appealing with their distinctive crinkled appearance. As they bake, the cookies expand and crack, revealing the rich chocolate beneath the powdered sugar. This effect is created by the dough’s reaction to the heat, which results in a beautiful and tasty treat.

Ingredients

To create the perfect batch of double chocolate crinkle cookies, you’ll need the following ingredients. Gather them all before you start to ensure a smooth baking process:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar (for coating)

Instructions

Follow these steps to make the perfect double chocolate crinkle cookies:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt until they are well combined.
3. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together using an electric mixer on medium speed until the mixture is light and fluffy. This should take about 2-3 minutes.
4. Add Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in the eggs one at a time, making sure each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next. Then, add the vanilla extract and mix until combined.
5. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in tough cookies.
6. Fold in Chocolate Chips: Gently fold the semi-sweet chocolate chips into the cookie dough using a spatula or wooden spoon.
7. Chill the Dough: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the dough for at least 1-2 hours. Chilling the dough is essential for achieving the crinkled appearance and preventing the cookies from spreading too much.
8. Prepare for Baking: Place the powdered sugar in a shallow bowl. Using a tablespoon or a cookie scoop, portion out the dough and roll it into balls. Roll each ball in the powdered sugar until fully coated.
9. Bake the Cookies: Place the sugar-coated dough balls on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes or until the cookies have spread and cracked, and the edges are set.
10. Cool the Cookies: Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Nutrition Facts

Understanding the nutritional content of your cookies is important, especially if you’re mindful of your dietary intake. Here is an approximate breakdown of the nutritional information per cookie (assuming the recipe yields 24 cookies):

• Calories: 110
• Total Fat: 5g
• Cholesterol: 20mg
• Sodium: 40mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 15g
• Protein: 1g

Keep in mind that these values are approximate and can vary based on the specific ingredients used.

How to Serve

Double chocolate crinkle cookies are not only a delight to the taste buds but also incredibly versatile, making them suitable for various occasions and pairings. Here are some detailed serving suggestions that will elevate your cookie experience and enhance their enjoyment:

With a Glass of Milk

The classic combination of cookies and milk is timeless for a reason. The creamy, cool milk perfectly balances the rich, intense chocolate flavor of the cookies. For an added twist, consider using flavored milk, such as chocolate or almond milk, to amplify the chocolate experience. Alternatively, try serving the cookies with a glass of cold, frothy oat milk for a dairy-free option that still offers a creamy texture. For a fun presentation, serve the cookies on a rustic wooden board, accompanied by a charming glass of milk adorned with a colorful straw.

As a Dessert Platter

Elevate your entertaining game by arranging double chocolate crinkle cookies on a beautifully styled dessert platter. Pair them with a variety of other sweet treats, such as fudgy brownies, delicate fruit tarts, and mini cheesecakes, to create a visually enticing spread. To enhance the presentation, consider adding fresh berries or edible flowers for a pop of color. Dust the cookies with powdered sugar just before serving to give them an elegant touch. This platter can serve as a stunning centerpiece for birthday parties, holiday gatherings, or casual get-togethers, inviting guests to indulge in a variety of flavors and textures.

Accompanying Coffee or Tea

Double chocolate crinkle cookies make for an exquisite afternoon snack when paired with your favorite coffee or tea. The deep, rich flavor of a dark roast coffee complements the chocolate, while a lighter roast or a flavored coffee, such as hazelnut or vanilla, can add an interesting contrast. For tea lovers, consider pairing the cookies with a robust black tea, such as Earl Grey or Assam, which can stand up to the richness of the cookies. For a more delicate option, a chamomile or herbal tea can provide a calming balance. Enhance the experience by serving the cookies on a decorative plate alongside a steaming cup, creating a cozy atmosphere perfect for a relaxing break.

Ice Cream Sandwiches

Transform your double chocolate crinkle cookies into indulgent ice cream sandwiches for a decadent treat that is sure to impress. Choose your favorite ice cream flavor—vanilla, mint chocolate chip, or salted caramel work particularly well—and allow it to soften slightly for easy scooping. Place a generous scoop of ice cream between two cookies and gently press them together. For added flair, roll the edges in mini chocolate chips or crushed nuts for a delightful crunch. Serve these delicious sandwiches on a chilled plate, perhaps garnished with a drizzle of chocolate sauce or a sprinkle of sea salt for an extra touch of decadence. This creative serving suggestion is perfect for summer gatherings, birthday parties, or simply as a special dessert for family movie night.

Additional Serving Ideas

• Gift Boxes: Package the cookies in decorative boxes or tins for thoughtful homemade gifts. Include a personal note or a festive ribbon to make the presentation even more special.
• Brunch Treat: Serve these cookies at brunch alongside a spread of pastries, muffins, and fresh fruit. Their rich flavor can complement a variety of brunch beverages, such as mimosas or flavored lemonades.
• Kids’ Parties: Create a cookie decorating station at children’s parties where kids can add their own toppings, such as sprinkles or chocolate drizzle, turning the act of eating cookies into a fun, interactive activity.
• S’mores Variation: Use double chocolate crinkle cookies as a delightful twist on the classic s’mores. Simply replace the graham crackers with the cookies, add a piece of chocolate and a roasted marshmallow, then sandwich them together for a luscious treat.

By exploring these diverse serving suggestions, you can enhance the way you enjoy double chocolate crinkle cookies, making them a versatile addition to any occasion, whether it’s a casual snack at home or an elegant dessert at a gathering.

Additional Tips

To ensure your double chocolate crinkle cookies turn out perfectly every time, consider the following essential tips that will enhance your baking experience and elevate the quality of your cookies.

Perfect Chilling

Chilling the dough is not just a suggestion—it’s a critical step in the baking process. When you chill the dough, it solidifies the fats, which helps to prevent the cookies from spreading too much during baking. This results in a thicker, chewier cookie with a beautiful crinkle effect. Aim for at least 30 minutes of chilling time, but for best results, consider chilling the dough for up to two hours or even overnight. This allows the flavors to meld and can improve the overall taste of your cookies. If you’re short on time, you can also place the dough in the freezer for 15-20 minutes, but be careful not to freeze it solid.

Accurate Measuring

Precision in measuring your ingredients is vital, especially when it comes to flour and cocoa powder, which can greatly affect the texture of your cookies. It is best to use a kitchen scale for accuracy—this will help you measure your dry ingredients by weight rather than volume. For instance, one cup of flour can weigh anywhere from 120 to 150 grams depending on how it’s packed. Too much flour can lead to dense, dry cookies rather than the soft, chewy texture you desire. If you don’t have a scale, spoon the flour into your measuring cup and level it off with a knife instead of scooping it directly from the bag, which can compact the flour and lead to over-measuring.

Room Temperature Ingredients

Using room temperature ingredients, particularly butter and eggs, is crucial for achieving a uniform mixture and ensuring that the cookies bake evenly. Cold butter can lead to uneven mixing and may cause the dough to be too stiff, while cold eggs can affect the overall texture and incorporation of ingredients. To bring your butter to room temperature quickly, cut it into small cubes and let it sit out for about 15-20 minutes. For eggs, simply place them in a bowl of warm water for about 10 minutes before use.

Even Coating

The signature crinkle effect of double chocolate crinkle cookies comes from an even coating of powdered sugar. To achieve this, roll the dough balls thoroughly in powdered sugar, ensuring that each ball is well-coated on all sides. This not only contributes to the aesthetic appeal of the cookies but also helps to create a delightful contrast between the rich chocolate flavor and the sweet, powdery exterior. For an added touch, you can sift the powdered sugar again after rolling the dough to remove any lumps and to give a more refined finish.

Do Not Overbake

Baking time is crucial for achieving the perfect double chocolate crinkle cookie. Keep a close eye on the cookies as they bake, as oven temperatures can vary. Generally, cookies should be removed from the oven when the edges are set but the centers still have a slight softness. This will ensure that they continue to cook from residual heat after being taken out of the oven, resulting in a perfectly gooey center. A good rule of thumb is to start checking the cookies a couple of minutes before the recommended baking time. If you’re unsure, it’s better to err on the side of underbaking—cookies will firm up as they cool.

By incorporating these tips into your baking routine, you can ensure that your double chocolate crinkle cookies are not only visually stunning but also deliciously satisfying. Happy baking!

FAQs

1. Can I use dark chocolate instead of semi-sweet chocolate chips?

Yes, you can use dark chocolate chips if you prefer a richer, more intense chocolate flavor. Keep in mind that this may slightly alter the sweetness of the cookies.

2. Can I freeze the dough?

Yes, you can freeze the cookie dough. Roll the dough into balls, coat them in powdered sugar, and freeze on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer the dough balls to a freezer-safe bag. When ready to bake, place them on a baking sheet and bake from frozen, adding an extra 2-3 minutes to the baking time.

3. How long do these cookies stay fresh?

Stored in an airtight container at room temperature, these cookies will stay fresh for about 3-4 days. For longer storage, freeze the baked cookies for up to 2 months.

4. Can I make these cookies gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free certified.

Conclusion

Double chocolate crinkle cookies are a delicious and visually appealing treat that are sure to impress. With their soft, chewy texture and rich chocolate flavor, these cookies are a favorite among both children and adults. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or simply to satisfy a sweet craving, this recipe is sure to deliver. By following the instructions and tips provided, you’ll be able to create the perfect batch of cookies that will delight anyone who tries them. Enjoy the process, and savor the sweet rewards of your baking efforts!

Print