Chocolate crinkles

Chocolate Crinkles: The Soft Delight of Chocolate

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Refrigeration time: 8 hours (or overnight)
Baking time: 10 minutes
Total: 8 hours 30 minutes
Number of servings: 24 cookies

Who doesn't love a decadent dessert filled with chocolate? Chocolate Crinkles are more than just simple cookies; they are an explosion of flavor, with a soft texture and a slightly crunchy crust. These delights are perfect for any occasion, from a gathering with friends, to winter holidays, or simply to indulge your soul. The origin of these cookies is shrouded in mystery, but they became popular due to their attractive appearance, with cracks revealing a moist and rich interior.

Ingredients:

- 225 g dark chocolate (minimum 70% cocoa) - choosing high-quality chocolate will make a difference in the final taste
- 60 g butter - adds a rich and creamy texture
- 100 g granulated sugar - for sweetness
- 2 eggs - for lightness and binding
- 225 g flour - provides the structure of the cookies
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract - for an extra flavor
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon - gives a warm and comforting taste
- 1 teaspoon baking powder - helps the dough rise
- A pinch of salt - balances the sweetness
- Granulated sugar and powdered sugar for coating - for an attractive crust

Preparation steps:

1. Melting the chocolate: Start by breaking the chocolate into small pieces and placing it in a bowl with the cubed butter. To melt them, you can use the microwave. Heat the mixture in 30-second intervals, stirring well after each interval, until the chocolate and butter are completely melted and smooth. Alternatively, you can use a double boiler, which is a classic and gentler method.

2. Egg mixture: In another bowl, beat the eggs well with the granulated sugar until the mixture becomes frothy and light in color. This step is essential for incorporating air, giving the cookies a light texture.

3. Combining the ingredients: Add the melted chocolate to the egg mixture, followed by the vanilla extract, cinnamon, a pinch of salt, and the sifted flour along with the baking powder. Mix everything with a spatula until the ingredients are fully integrated. It is important not to overmix, as this could develop the gluten in the flour, making the cookies tougher.

4. Refrigeration, the secret to the cracks: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it chill in the refrigerator for at least 8 hours, preferably overnight. This step is crucial, as the temperature difference between the cold dough and the hot oven will create the characteristic cracks during baking.

5. Shaping the cookies: After the dough has chilled, take it out and prepare your workspace. Form walnut-sized balls from the dough. It is recommended to work quickly to avoid warming the dough. Roll each ball first in granulated sugar, then in powdered sugar, ensuring they are evenly coated.

6. Preparing for baking: Place the dough balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving enough space between them to spread. If you feel the dough has softened too much in your hands, you can place the tray in the refrigerator for another 5 minutes.

7. Baking: Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F) and bake the cookies for 8-10 minutes. The cookies are ready when the edges are slightly firm, but the center is still soft. Let them cool on the tray for 5 minutes, then transfer them to a rack to cool completely.

8. Storing the cookies: Once cooled, store them in an airtight metal container to maintain freshness. These cookies are wonderful even after a few days, and they become even more delicious as the flavors meld together.

Serving suggestions: Chocolate Crinkles are perfect served alongside a cup of warm milk, coffee, or tea. You can add a special touch by sprinkling them with sea salt flakes for a delicious sweet and salty contrast.

Variations: If you want to experiment, you can add chopped nuts, almonds, or even chocolate chips to the dough for added texture. Another idea is to replace part of the flour with cocoa for even more intense cookies.

Nutritional benefits: These cookies are rich in antioxidants due to the chocolate, and the cinnamon adds not only flavor but also anti-inflammatory properties. However, consume them in moderation, as each cookie contains about 100 calories.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use milk chocolate?
Yes, but the cookies will be sweeter and less intense in flavor. Dark chocolate provides a more complex taste.

2. How can I tell if the cookies are baked?
When the edges are firm and slightly raised, and the center is still moist, they are ready. Do not bake them too long, as they will harden as they cool.

3. Can I freeze the cookies?
Yes, these cookies can be frozen. Make sure to portion them out and place them in an airtight container. When you want to eat them, let them thaw at room temperature.

These Chocolate Crinkles are an excellent choice for any chocolate lover, bringing a touch of joy to every bite. By experimenting with the recipe, you will surely discover delicious combinations that will make you come back to this simple and quick recipe. Enjoy!