There’s something magical about the scent of warm chocolate cookies baking in the oven. As the temperature drops, these Chocolate Sugar Cookies bring a delightful warmth to your kitchen, filling the air with their rich, sweet aroma. Imagine biting into a soft, chewy cookie, with just the right amount of crisp edges. Their subtle chocolate flavor is perfectly balanced, making them an irresistible treat for gatherings, cozy nights in, or even as a special afternoon snack.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These Chocolate Sugar Cookies are not only incredibly easy to make, but they also offer a delightful twist on the classic sugar cookie. With their soft texture paired with the burst of chocolate, they are sure to win over hearts at any occasion. Plus, the simple ingredients make them a go-to recipe for bakers of all skill levels!
Ingredients Needed For Chocolate Sugar Cookies
- 1 cup (226 g) unsalted butter, softened: Use high-quality butter for the best flavor. Make sure it’s softened at room temperature – this helps create that perfect creamy texture.
- 1 cup (200 g) granulated sugar: This sugar adds sweetness and helps to create that lovely crisp edge.
- 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract: Opt for pure vanilla extract over imitation for a richer flavor.
- 1 large egg: The egg acts as a binding agent, giving the cookies their structure.
- 2 cups + 2 Tablespoons (265 g) all-purpose flour: This is your base ingredient; be sure to spoon and level it when measuring for best results.
- 1/2 cup (50 g) Dutch-processed cocoa powder: This gives the cookies their rich chocolatey taste. It’s less acidic, providing a smoother flavor.
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder: This is essential for a bit of fluffiness in the cookies.
- 3/4 teaspoon salt: A touch of salt balances the sweetness beautifully.
- 1 1/2 cups (190 g) powdered sugar, sifted: This creates a smooth, sweet frosting.
- 1 Tablespoon Dutch cocoa powder: This will enhance the chocolate flavor in the frosting as well.
- 2 Tablespoons milk (any kind), plus more as needed: Start with this amount; adjust to achieve your desired frosting consistency.
- 1 Tablespoon light corn syrup: This adds shine to your frosting and keeps it smooth.
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract: Just a splash to deepen the flavor in the frosting.
- Additional sprinkles for decorating (optional): Add these for a fun, celebratory touch!
How to Make Chocolate Sugar Cookies
- Combine butter and sugar in a large bowl and use an electric mixer to beat until creamy and well-combined.
- Add the egg and vanilla extract and beat well until fully incorporated.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until completely combined.
- Transfer half of the dough onto plastic wrap, mold it into a disk, and refrigerate for at least 2-3 hours.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Dust a clean surface with flour, roll out the chilled dough, and cut out shapes with cookie cutters.
- Bake for 9-11 minutes, until the edges are set but the centers still look soft.
- Allow cookies to cool completely on a wire rack.
- Combine the frosting ingredients, making sure to adjust the milk until it reaches your desired consistency, and pipe onto cookies once cooled.
- Decorate with sprinkles if desired, and allow the frosting to harden before serving.
How to Serve Chocolate Sugar Cookies
These cookies shine when served fresh out of the oven or at room temperature. Pair them with a glass of milk or a warm cup of cocoa for a cozy treat. They are perfect for holiday gatherings or as a sweet surprise for loved ones.
How to Store Chocolate Sugar Cookies
Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze the baked cookies for up to three months. Just make sure to place parchment paper between layers to prevent them from sticking.
Tips to Make Chocolate Sugar Cookies
- Chill the Dough: Don’t skip the chilling step! It helps the flavors develop and prevents spreading.
- Use Quality Cocoa Powder: A good Dutch-processed cocoa will lead to a richer chocolate flavor.
- Monitor Baking Time: Oven temperatures can vary, so keep an eye on your cookies to ensure they don’t overbake.
Variations and Substitutions
- Add Mint: For a fresh twist, add peppermint extract to both the cookie dough and frosting.
- Nutty Flavor: Fold finely chopped nuts into the dough for a delightful crunch.
- Gluten-Free Option: Swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend to cater to gluten-sensitive friends.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use light brown sugar instead of granulated sugar?
Yes, you can! Light brown sugar will add a slight caramel flavor and a softer texture to your cookies.
How do I know when the cookies are done baking?
The cookies should look set around the edges while the center remains a bit soft. They will continue to firm up as they cool.
Can I freeze the cookie dough?
Absolutely! Shape the dough into disks, wrap it well in plastic wrap, and freeze it. You can bake directly from frozen; just add a couple of extra minutes to the baking time.
What can I use if I don’t have corn syrup?
You can substitute corn syrup with honey or maple syrup, though the flavor will vary slightly.
How long do the frosted cookies last?
Frosted cookies typically last about 5-7 days in an airtight container at room temperature. If you see any signs of moisture or condensation, it’s best to enjoy them quickly!
Chocolate Sugar Cookies
Ingredients
For the Cookies
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened Use high-quality butter for the best flavor.
- 1 cup granulated sugar This sugar adds sweetness and helps to create a crisp edge.
- 1.5 teaspoons vanilla extract Opt for pure vanilla extract for a richer flavor.
- 1 large egg Acts as a binding agent.
- 2.125 cups all-purpose flour Be sure to spoon and level when measuring.
- 0.5 cup Dutch-processed cocoa powder Provides a rich chocolatey taste.
- 0.5 teaspoon baking powder Essential for fluffiness.
- 0.75 teaspoon salt Balances sweetness.
For the Frosting
- 1.5 cups powdered sugar, sifted Creates a smooth frosting.
- 1 tablespoon Dutch cocoa powder Enhances chocolate flavor.
- 2 tablespoons milk Adjust for desired consistency.
- 1 tablespoon light corn syrup Adds shine to frosting.
- 0.25 teaspoon vanilla extract Deepens flavor in frosting.
- Additional sprinkles for decorating (optional) For a fun touch.
Instructions
Preparation
- Combine butter and sugar in a large bowl and beat until creamy and well-combined.
- Add the egg and vanilla extract and mix until fully incorporated.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until completely combined.
- Transfer half of the dough onto plastic wrap, mold it into a disk, and refrigerate for at least 2-3 hours.
Baking
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Dust a clean surface with flour, roll out the chilled dough, and cut out shapes with cookie cutters.
- Bake for 9-11 minutes, until the edges are set but the centers still look soft.
- Allow cookies to cool completely on a wire rack.
Frosting
- Combine frosting ingredients, adjusting milk for desired consistency, and pipe onto cookies once cooled.
- Decorate with sprinkles if desired, and allow the frosting to harden before serving.
