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If you are craving a delightful treat that perfectly balances rich cocoa and sweet crunchy sugar, then this Chocolate Sugar Cookies with Melted Chocolate Coating Recipe is exactly what you need. These cookies boast a tender, chewy center with a delicate crackled top, all rolled generously in sparkling sugar before baking. But the real showstopper is the silky melted chocolate coating that envelops half of each cookie, adding an irresistible layer of decadence. Whether you’re baking for a cozy afternoon or a festive gathering, these cookies will quickly become your go-to favorite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting ready to bake these Chocolate Sugar Cookies with Melted Chocolate Coating Recipe is a breeze because the ingredients are straightforward yet crucial for achieving that perfect texture and flavor. Each item contributes to the cookie’s softness, sweetness, or that inviting chocolate punch that makes them so addictive.
- Unsalted butter, 3/4 cup (170 g): Room temperature butter creams beautifully with sugar, giving the cookies their tender crumb.
- Dark brown sugar, 3/4 cup (150 g), packed: Adds deep caramel notes and moisture for chewiness.
- Granulated sugar, 1/4 cup (50 g): Helps balance the sweetness and lightens the cookie texture.
- Large egg, 1 (room temperature): Binds all ingredients perfectly and adds richness.
- Vanilla extract, 1 teaspoon: Enhances all the sweet flavors without overpowering.
- Molasses, 1 tablespoon: A secret ingredient that boosts depth and complexity.
- All-purpose flour, 2 cups (250 g): The base that holds everything together.
- Unsweetened cocoa powder, 1/2 cup (45 g), sifted: For that intense, chocolaty flavor, Hershey’s Special Dark is perfect here.
- Baking soda, 1 teaspoon: Helps create just the right rise and tender crumb.
- Salt, 1/2 teaspoon: Balances sweetness and intensifies flavors.
- Granulated sugar, 1/3 cup (66 g), for rolling: Adds a delightful shimmer and extra crunch to each cookie.
- Dark or semi-sweet chocolate chips, 1 cup: For melting into that luscious coating.
- Coconut or vegetable oil, 1 teaspoon: Gives the melted chocolate the perfect sheen and smooth texture.
How to Make Chocolate Sugar Cookies with Melted Chocolate Coating Recipe
Step 1: Preparing the Cookie Dough
Start by preheating your oven to 325°F and lining baking sheets with parchment paper. Using a stand mixer with a paddle attachment is ideal here: cream the softened butter with the dark brown and granulated sugars until the mixture is light and fluffy, about two to three minutes. This step is key to creating that perfect cookie texture.
Step 2: Incorporating Wet Ingredients
Next, add the egg and a teaspoon of vanilla extract to your butter mixture and blend until just combined. Then, stir in the molasses, which is a wonderful addition to deepen the cookie’s flavor and add moisture. Make sure to scrape down the sides of your bowl often to keep everything evenly mixed.
Step 3: Mixing Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, sifted cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add this to your wet ingredients in three parts. Pro tip: cover your mixer with a kitchen towel when mixing in the cocoa powder to prevent it from puffing out, and always scrape the sides to avoid any white streaks of flour.
Step 4: Shaping and Sugaring the Dough
Use a large cookie scoop to portion out dough balls weighing about 1.8 to 2 ounces each. Roll each ball in granulated sugar generously, coating every side for that signature sparkle and crunch. Place on your prepared baking sheets 2 to 3 inches apart, then gently press each cookie down with the flat bottom of a measuring cup or your hand. Remember: don’t flatten too much, just enough for a slight spread.
Step 5: Baking to Perfection
Bake your cookies on the center rack for 10 to 11 minutes. You’ll know they are done when the edges are set and the tops have those charming cracks. Let them cool on the baking sheets for about 10 minutes, as they’ll soften and deflate slightly while resting.
Step 6: Melting the Chocolate Coating
In a medium heat-safe bowl, combine your dark or semi-sweet chocolate chips with a teaspoon of coconut or vegetable oil. Microwave in 30-second bursts, stirring in between, until silky smooth. This melting step is what transforms these cookies into something spectacular.
Step 7: Dipping and Setting
Once the cookies have fully cooled to room temperature, dip one half of each cookie into the melted chocolate, allowing excess to drip off. Place on a wire rack to set. If you want, sprinkle with festive sprinkles or chopped nuts while the chocolate is still soft. Let the chocolate rest and harden at room temperature for about an hour, and prepare for cookie bliss!
How to Serve Chocolate Sugar Cookies with Melted Chocolate Coating Recipe
Garnishes
Enhance presentation and texture by adding sprinkles, crushed peppermint, or chopped toasted nuts to the chocolate coating before it sets. These little touches add a playful pop of color or crunch and make the cookies even more festive and fun to share.
Side Dishes
These chocolate sugar cookies are wonderful alongside a tall glass of cold milk or a steamy cup of coffee or hot cocoa. The warmth of the drink contrasts beautifully with the cool, sweet chocolate coating, turning a simple snack into a cozy indulgence.
Creative Ways to Present
For special occasions, arrange your cookies on a festive platter lined with parchment and dusted lightly with powdered sugar. Wrap individual cookies in cellophane tied with colorful ribbons to give as charming gifts that anyone would cherish. You can also sandwich two cookies together with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an irresistible treat.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep your cookies fresh by storing them in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay chewy and soft for up to five days, so you can enjoy them throughout the week without losing any of their magic.
Freezing
If you want to keep these Chocolate Sugar Cookies with Melted Chocolate Coating Recipe for longer, freeze uncoated cookie dough balls on a parchment-lined tray, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to three months. You can also freeze baked cookies after the chocolate coating has set; just separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Reheating
To bring back that freshly-baked warmth, microwave a cookie for about 10 seconds or warm in a 300°F oven for 3 to 5 minutes. Avoid overheating to keep the gooey chocolate coating intact and the cookie soft.
FAQs
Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark or semi-sweet chocolate for the coating?
Absolutely! Milk chocolate will give a sweeter, creamier coating, which some love. Just keep in mind it’s softer and may take a bit longer to set at room temperature.
What if I don’t have molasses on hand?
Molasses adds depth and chewiness, but you can substitute it with an equal amount of honey or maple syrup in a pinch. The flavor profile will be a bit different but still delicious.
Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
While this recipe uses all-purpose flour, swapping it out for a 1-to-1 gluten-free baking flour blend usually works well. Just make sure the blend contains xanthan gum to help with texture.
Is it necessary to roll the dough in sugar before baking?
Yes, rolling your dough balls in granulated sugar gives the cookies their beautiful crackled tops and a sweet, textured surface that balances the cocoa flavors. It’s a small step with a big impact.
How long does it take for the chocolate coating to set?
Typically, the chocolate coating will set within about an hour at room temperature. If you’re in a hurry, refrigerating the cookies for 15 to 20 minutes helps speed up the process but be careful not to create condensation.
Final Thoughts
These Chocolate Sugar Cookies with Melted Chocolate Coating Recipe are pure joy wrapped in cocoa and sugar, with a decadent chocolate finish that feels like a little celebration in every bite. Whether you’re an experienced baker or just want to try something special, this recipe will bring smiles and sweet moments every time. So roll up your sleeves, preheat that oven, and get ready to enjoy some seriously delicious cookies with the perfect balance of rich chocolate and sweet sugar sparkle.
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Chocolate Sugar Cookies with Melted Chocolate Coating Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 11 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 31 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Delight in these rich and fudgy Chocolate Sugar Cookies, featuring a perfect blend of cocoa and molasses for deep flavor. Coated in a sparkling layer of sugar and optionally dipped in smooth melted chocolate, these cookies offer a crisp edge with a tender, chewy center. Ideal for chocolate lovers seeking a classic cookie with a luscious twist.
Ingredients
Cookie Dough
- 3/4 cup (170 g) unsalted butter, room temperature
- 3/4 cup (150 g) dark brown sugar, packed
- 1/4 cup (50 g) granulated sugar
- 1 large egg, room temperature
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon molasses
- 2 cups (250 g) all-purpose flour, spooned and leveled
- 1/2 cup (45 g) unsweetened cocoa powder, sifted
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/3 cup (66 g) granulated sugar, for rolling dough
- 1 cup dark or semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 teaspoon coconut or vegetable oil
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Line two large baking sheets with parchment paper and set aside.
- Cream Butter and Sugars: In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment, cream together the unsalted butter, dark brown sugar, and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 2 to 3 minutes. Scrape down the sides of the bowl to ensure even mixing.
- Add Wet Ingredients: Mix in the egg and vanilla extract until combined. Then add the molasses on low speed until fully incorporated, scraping the bowl sides again if needed.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, sifted cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt until evenly blended.
- Combine Dry and Wet: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture in three additions, mixing well after each addition. To avoid cocoa powder flying, cover the mixer with a towel and scrape down the bowl. Stop mixing when no white streaks remain.
- Form Dough Balls: Using a large cookie scoop, portion dough into balls weighing approximately 1.8 to 2 ounces each. Roll each ball between your hands, then coat generously in the remaining 1/3 cup granulated sugar. Place dough balls on the prepared baking sheets about 2 to 3 inches apart. Gently press down the tops of each cookie just slightly with your hand or the flat bottom of a measuring cup, being careful not to flatten too much. Sprinkle a bit more granulated sugar on top.
- Bake: Bake cookies on the center rack for 10 to 11 minutes. Cookies are done when edges are set and tops have characteristic cracked appearance.
- Cool: Remove cookies from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheet for 10 minutes. They will deflate slightly as they cool.
- Prepare Chocolate Coating: In a medium heat-safe bowl, combine chocolate chips and coconut or vegetable oil. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until melted and smooth.
- Dip Cookies: Once cookies are completely cooled to room temperature, dip one half of each cookie into the melted chocolate. Allow excess chocolate to drip back into the bowl, then place cookies on a wire rack. Optionally, top with sprinkles or chopped nuts.
- Set Chocolate: Let the dipped cookies rest at room temperature for about an hour until the chocolate coating is fully set and firm.
Notes
- Ensure butter and egg are at room temperature for best creaming and mixing results.
- Cover the mixer with a towel during mixing to prevent cocoa powder from dusting the kitchen.
- Do not over-flatten the cookie dough balls before baking to maintain the ideal chewy texture.
- Allow cookies to cool completely before dipping in chocolate to avoid melting the coating.
- Store dipped cookies at room temperature in an airtight container; they can also be refrigerated to prolong freshness but bring back to room temperature before serving.
- Use high-quality cocoa powder and chocolate chips for richer flavor.
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