Milan Cookies with Chocolate

Artisan Chocolate Cookies - A Fluffy Delight for Special Moments

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 10 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes
Servings: 16-20 cookies

Who can resist freshly baked cookies with a fluffy texture and melted chocolate? These artisan chocolate cookies are a true delight, perfect for bringing a smile to the faces of your loved ones. They are easy to prepare, and the result is absolutely delicious. Whether you enjoy them with a cup of tea or give them as gifts, these cookies will quickly become everyone's favorite.

A Brief History of Cookies

Cookies have a long history, with roots that stretch back to medieval times when they were considered a delicacy reserved for the nobility. Over time, recipes have diversified, and cookies have become an integral part of international cuisine. Today, each culture has its own variations, but we will focus on a recipe inspired by Italian traditions that combines simplicity of ingredients with an explosion of flavor.

Necessary Ingredients

- 4 egg whites
- 200 g of flour
- 125 g of butter (at room temperature)
- 225 g of powdered sugar
- A pinch of salt
- Vanilla extract (to taste)
- Dark chocolate (70%, optional, for an extra burst of flavor)

Necessary Utensils

- Large mixing bowl
- Electric mixer
- Silicone spatula
- Baking tray
- Parchment paper
- Cooling rack

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Start by gathering all the necessary ingredients and utensils. It’s important for the butter to be soft, so leave it at room temperature for about 30 minutes before you begin. This will make mixing easier and ensure a smooth texture for the cookies.

Step 2: Make the Butter Cream

In a large bowl, add the soft butter and mix it with the electric mixer on medium speed for 2 minutes until it becomes creamy.

Step 3: Add Sugar and Vanilla

Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract while continuing to mix. At first, the mixture will look crumbly, but don’t worry! The more you mix, the creamier it will become.

Step 4: Incorporate the Egg Whites

Add the egg whites one at a time and continue mixing on high speed for 5-6 minutes. You will notice the mixture becoming airy and fluffy, which is essential for the final texture of the cookies.

Step 5: Add the Dry Ingredients

Sift the flour and salt over the butter and egg white mixture. Use a silicone spatula to gently fold in the dry ingredients, mixing from the bottom up to preserve the air in the mixture.

Step 6: Form the Cookies

Preheat the oven to 200°C (392°F). Prepare the baking tray with parchment paper. Using a teaspoon, place dollops of dough spaced 5 cm apart, as the cookies will flatten during baking. If you prefer taller and fluffier cookies, don’t flatten them too much.

Step 7: Add the Chocolate

For an extra burst of flavor, add chocolate chips on top of each cookie. The chocolate will melt during baking, giving an appetizing look and a decadent taste.

Step 8: Bake the Cookies

Place the tray in the preheated oven and bake for 10 minutes. The cookies are ready when they turn slightly golden around the edges but are still soft in the center. Don’t leave them in too long, as they will continue to bake after being removed from the oven.

Step 9: Cooling

Once the cookies are baked, remove them from the oven and transfer them to a cooling rack to cool completely. This will help maintain their fluffy texture and prevent them from becoming soggy.

Serving Suggestions

Chocolate cookies are delicious served warm, but they can also be stored in airtight containers for a few days. Try enjoying them with herbal tea or aromatic coffee for a perfect combination. These cookies also make wonderful gifts when beautifully packaged in a decorative box.

Possible Variations

If you want to experiment, add some extra ingredients to create unique cookies. Here are a few suggestions:

- Nuts or hazelnuts: Add chopped nuts or hazelnuts to the dough for a crunchy texture.
- Spices: A hint of cinnamon or nutmeg can add a warm and comforting flavor.
- Dried fruits: Use raisins or dried cranberries for an interesting contrast with the chocolate.

Nutritional Benefits

These cookies are a good source of energy due to the carbohydrates and healthy fats from the butter. Additionally, dark chocolate contains antioxidants and can help improve mood.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use white chocolate? Yes, white chocolate can be a delicious alternative. However, keep in mind that it will slightly change the final flavor.

2. How can I keep the cookies fresh for longer? Store the cookies in airtight containers at room temperature to prevent them from drying out.

3. Can I use whole eggs instead of egg whites? We recommend using only egg whites to achieve the light and fluffy texture characteristic of these cookies.

Now that you have all the necessary details, all that's left is to put your cooking plan into action and make these artisan chocolate cookies. With every bite, you’ll bring a touch of joy to your loved ones. Cook with love and share the joy!