Soft & Chewy Chocolate Cookies

These Soft & Chewy Chocolate Cookies are the perfect balance of rich chocolate flavor and a tender, chewy texture. With a slightly crisp edge and a soft, melt-in-your-mouth center, they’re sure to satisfy any chocolate lover’s cravings. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or simply treating yourself, these cookies are easy to make and absolutely delicious!

Ingredients:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup brown sugar, packed
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
• 1/4 cup milk chocolate chips (optional for added flavor)
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar (for rolling the dough)

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Dry Ingredients

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar

1. In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and brown sugar together until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes using an electric mixer. The butter should be fully creamed, and the sugar should be well incorporated.
2. Add the egg and vanilla extract to the butter-sugar mixture and continue beating until smooth and creamy.

Step 3: Combine the Wet and Dry Ingredients

1. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
2. Fold in the chocolate chips (both semi-sweet and milk chocolate if using), ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the dough.

Step 4: Shape the Dough

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll the cookie dough into balls, about 1 tablespoon of dough per cookie. Roll each ball in the granulated sugar to coat lightly before placing it on the baking sheet.
3. Place the dough balls about 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheet to allow for spreading.

Step 5: Bake the Cookies

1. Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are set, but the centers are still soft.
2. For a chewy texture, be sure to slightly underbake them, as they will continue to cook on the baking sheet once removed from the oven.
3. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

1. Once the cookies have cooled, enjoy the perfect soft, chewy chocolate cookies with a glass of milk or just on their own!

Tips and Variations:

• For extra chewiness: You can refrigerate the dough for 30 minutes before baking to prevent the cookies from spreading too much during baking.
• Add-ins: Feel free to mix in chopped nuts (like walnuts or pecans) or white chocolate chips for a fun twist.
• Dough Storage: If you have extra dough, you can wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze it for up to 2 months. When ready to bake, just scoop and bake as usual.
• Vegan Option: Use vegan butter, flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 3 tablespoons water), and dairy-free chocolate chips to make this recipe vegan-friendly.

Conclusion

These Soft & Chewy Chocolate Cookies are the perfect treat for any chocolate lover. They’re simple to make, with a rich chocolate flavor and a delightful chewy texture. With just a few ingredients, you’ll have a batch of delicious cookies that are perfect for snacking or sharing with friends and family. Enjoy the ultimate chocolate indulgence!