Chocolate cookies

Chocolate Cookies - A Delight That Pleases Every Sweet Tooth

Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Baking Time: 15-25 minutes
Total Time: 30-40 minutes
Number of Servings: 20-24 cookies

Chocolate cookies have a rich history, being a popular choice in many cultures due to their versatility and simplicity. These delicate treats, crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, are perfect for any time of the day, whether you're indulging yourself or impressing guests. So, let's get to work and discover how to make the most delicious chocolate cookies in a simple and enjoyable way.

Necessary Ingredients

- 225 g sugar
- 120 g butter (at room temperature)
- 1 egg (large, preferably organic)
- 180 g flour
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for an irresistible aroma)
- ½ teaspoon baking soda (for a fluffier texture)
- A pinch of salt (for flavor balance)
- 150 g dark or milk chocolate (chopped or in chips)

Step by Step for Perfect Cookies

1. Preparing the Ingredients: Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature. Take the butter out of the fridge about 30 minutes before you start cooking. This will allow for a smooth and creamy mixture.

2. Making the Butter and Sugar Cream: In a large bowl, add the sugar and butter. Use an electric mixer or a spatula to combine them until you achieve a fluffy and pale cream. This step is crucial as the air incorporated in this process will help the cookies to be fluffy.

3. Adding the Egg and Vanilla: Once the cream is ready, add the egg and vanilla extract. Continue mixing until everything is well integrated.

4. Mixing the Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, combine the flour with the baking soda and salt. This step helps to evenly distribute the dry ingredients and prevents flour clumps.

5. Combining the Mixtures: Add the dry ingredient mixture to the bowl with the butter cream, mixing with a spatula or wooden spoon. By doing this carefully, you will achieve a smooth dough.

6. Including the Chocolate: Finally, fold in the chocolate pieces into the dough. This will be the moment when your cookies will take on that decadent and delicious look.

7. Preparing the Baking Tray: Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). Meanwhile, grease a baking tray with butter or use parchment paper to prevent the cookies from sticking.

8. Forming the Cookies: Using a teaspoon or an ice cream scoop, form balls of dough and place them on the prepared tray, leaving enough space between them as the cookies will spread during baking.

9. Baking: Place the tray in the preheated oven and let the cookies bake for 15 to 25 minutes, or until they are golden around the edges. You will smell the delicious aroma of melted chocolate spreading throughout the house.

10. Cooling: Once the cookies are baked, remove the tray from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack. This step is important to allow the cookies to hold their shape and perfect texture.

Serving Suggestions

Chocolate cookies are delicious served warm, alongside a glass of milk, tea, or coffee. You can also add a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top for a decadent dessert. If you want to impress, you can sprinkle a little sea salt on the cookies before baking, adding a contrast of flavors.

Tips and Variations

- You can experiment with different types of chocolate: white chocolate, milk chocolate, or a combination of them.
- Add chopped nuts or hazelnuts to provide a crunchy texture.
- If you enjoy stronger flavors, you can add a few drops of almond extract or a teaspoon of cinnamon to the dough.

Nutritional Benefits

These chocolate cookies provide a quick source of energy due to the sugar and chocolate, but remember that moderation is key! The cookies are rich in carbohydrates, and chocolate contains antioxidants that can have health benefits, especially those with a high cocoa content.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted butter?
Yes, but make sure to reduce the amount of salt in the recipe.

2. How can I keep the cookies fresh?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature to prevent drying out.

3. Can I replace the egg with a vegan alternative?
Yes, you can use a ripe banana or 1/4 cup of applesauce instead of the egg.

4. How many cookies can I make with this recipe?
It depends on the size of the cookies formed, but generally, you get about 20-24 servings.

These chocolate cookies are truly a wonderful choice for sweet lovers, and the preparation process is as enjoyable as the final result. Try this simple and quick recipe and let the delicious aromas fill your home with joy!