Chocolate cookies

Delicious chocolate cookies

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Chilling time: 2 hours (or overnight)
Baking time: 12-15 minutes
Total: 2 hours and 30 minutes
Servings: about 20-25 cookies

In a world full of sophisticated desserts, chocolate cookies always remain at the top of the preferences. These cookies are a perfect combination of a crispy exterior and a soft interior, with a rich chocolate flavor. Whether you're making them for a party, a gathering with friends, or just to treat yourself, this recipe will surely win you over.

The history of cookies is fascinating, with deep roots in the culinary traditions of many cultures. From homemade treats in grandmothers' kitchens to sophisticated versions in pastry shops, cookies have constantly evolved. This recipe, inspired by popular recipes, offers a personal touch and authentic taste due to simple yet quality ingredients.

Let’s get started! Here are the steps to achieve the most delicious chocolate cookies.

Ingredients:
- 100 g soft butter (at room temperature)
- 250 g granulated sugar
- 4 eggs
- 1 teaspoon rum extract
- 300 g flour
- 80 g cocoa (quality for an intense flavor)
- 1 packet baking powder
- a pinch of salt
- 100 g powdered sugar (for decoration)

Preparation:

1. Preparing the ingredients: Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature, especially the butter. It should be soft but not melted, to incorporate evenly into the dough. The cocoa should be of high quality to provide a rich taste to the cookies.

2. Mixing the ingredients: In a large bowl, add the soft butter and granulated sugar. Use an electric mixer or a spatula to combine them until you achieve a creamy and homogeneous consistency. This step is essential to ensure a tender texture for the cookies.

3. Adding the eggs: Incorporate the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. This allows the eggs to integrate perfectly into the mix, helping to aerate the dough.

4. Flavoring the dough: Add the rum extract for an extra flavor boost. The rum brings warmth and depth, perfect for chocolate cookies.

5. Incorporating the dry ingredients: In another bowl, sift the flour, cocoa, baking powder, and salt. The latter helps balance the sweetness and enhances the flavors. Mix the dry ingredients, then gradually incorporate them into the butter and egg mixture. Use a spatula to gently mix, so you don't activate the gluten in the flour, keeping the cookies tender.

6. Chilling the dough: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let the dough chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours. If you have time, leave it overnight. This step is crucial as the dough will firm up, making it easier to form balls.

7. Preheating the oven: About 30 minutes before baking the cookies, turn the oven on to 180°C (350°F). Make sure it is well preheated before placing the tray inside.

8. Forming the cookies: Wet your hands to prevent the dough from sticking. Take a portion of the dough and form balls of about 25 g each. If you have a kitchen scale, it can help achieve uniform sizes. These balls will rise slightly while baking, so make sure to space them apart on the baking tray.

9. Decorating the cookies: Roll each ball in powdered sugar, ensuring they are well coated. This step will not only give them an attractive appearance, but the powdered sugar will melt slightly during baking, forming a delicate crust.

10. Baking: Place the tray in the preheated oven and bake the cookies for 12-15 minutes, or until they pass the toothpick test. The cookies should be firm on the outside but soft on the inside. Don’t worry if they seem a little soft when you take them out of the oven; they will firm up as they cool.

11. Cooling: Let the cookies cool on a wire rack. I recommend waiting a few minutes before moving them to avoid breaking.

Serving suggestions: These chocolate cookies are wonderful served warm, alongside a cup of coffee or tea. You can also pair them with vanilla ice cream for a truly decadent dessert.

Possible variations: You can add chopped nuts or white chocolate for a different texture and taste. Additionally, feel free to experiment with flavors, adding cinnamon or vanilla instead of rum.

Nutritional benefits: These cookies provide a quick source of energy due to the sugar and fats, but moderate consumption is essential. Cocoa is rich in antioxidants, and butter, while caloric, can contribute to a balanced diet when consumed in moderation.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use unsweetened cocoa? Yes, just make sure to use quality cocoa without added sugar.
2. How can I store the cookies? Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature to keep them fresh.
3. Can I freeze the cookies? Yes, you can freeze the baked cookies or the dough before forming them into balls.

These chocolate cookies are a true delight and will make you feel like a real pastry master. Whether you prepare them for yourself or for loved ones, they will bring smiles and unforgettable moments. Enjoy!