Crunchy Chocolate Cookies

Recipe Overview 🍽️

History of the Recipe ✍️

Crunchy Chocolate Cookies, like biscuits, have their roots in American cuisine from the early 20th century. They stand out for their crispy texture, often achieved through longer baking. Chocolate, as an ingredient, has been added to traditional recipes to provide a rich and sweet flavor, making these cookies even more appealing.

Ingredients 🛒

listed in the order of use in the procedure:

• 150 g (2/3 cup) of unsalted butter, at room temperature
• 200 g (1 cup) of granulated sugar
• 100 g (1/2 cup) of brown sugar
• 2 eggs
• 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
• 250 g (2 cups) of all-purpose flour
• 50 g (1/2 cup) of unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 teaspoon of baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon of salt
• 200 g (7 oz) of dark chocolate chips (or milk chocolate)
• 100 g (1 cup) of chopped nuts or almonds (optional)

Steps (How to Make ) 🥣

1. Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
2. Cream together the butter with both sugars (white and brown) in a large bowl until you achieve a light and fluffy mixture.
3. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition, then incorporate the vanilla extract.
4. In another bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. Gradually incorporate this dry mixture into the wet preparation.
5. Add the chocolate chips and nuts or almonds if using. Mix gently with a spatula.
6. Form dough balls the size of walnuts and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving space between each ball.
7. Bake in the oven for 12 to 15 minutes. The cookies should be golden on the edges and slightly firm to the touch.
8. Allow to cool on a rack before enjoying.

Chef Tips 👨‍🍳

• For even Crunchy Chocolate Cookies , slightly extend the baking time, but be careful not to burn them.
• Use bread flour for an even crispier texture.
• Feel free to vary the types of chocolate for different flavors (milk chocolate, white chocolate, or even spicy chocolate).

Possible Variations 🎭

• Add orange or lemon zest for a fruity touch.
• Incorporate spices like cinnamon or allspice for a more complex flavor.
• Substitute chocolate chips with chunks of caramel or toffee for extra sweetness.

Bake Time 🔥

The Crunchy Chocolate Cookies bake for about 12 to 15 minutes at 180°C (350°F). They should be slightly golden on the edges for a crispy effect.

How to Store 🥡

Food and Drink Pairings 🥂

These cookies pair perfectly with black coffee, black tea, or a glass of cold milk. For a more indulgent experience, serve them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Presentation Suggestion 🍽️

Arrange the cookies on a plate, adding some extra chocolate chips or nut pieces on top for an attractive look. You can also present them in a kraft paper bag for a rustic touch.

Why It’s Healthy 💚

Although they are a dessert, dark chocolate contains beneficial antioxidants, and nuts provide healthy fats and protein. Enjoyed in moderation, these cookies can be part of a balanced diet.