Description
Delight in these Orange Dark Chocolate Chunk Cookies, a perfect blend of zesty orange and rich dark chocolate chunks nestled in a tender, buttery cookie. With a crisp edge and chewy center, these cookies offer a sophisticated twist on a classic treat, ideal for satisfying sweet cravings or sharing at gatherings.
Ingredients
Scale
Dry Ingredients
- 2 2/3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/4 tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp cornstarch
- 1 tsp kosher sea salt
Wet Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 1/4 cup brown sugar (packed)
- 1 tbsp orange zest
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 eggs
Add-ins and Garnish
- 6 oz dark chocolate bar (chopped)
- Sea salt (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, cornstarch, and kosher sea salt to evenly distribute the leavening agents and salt.
- Cream Butter and Sugars: In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened unsalted butter with both granulated and brown sugars until the mixture is smooth and fluffy. This creates a light texture for the cookies.
- Add Flavorings and Eggs: Incorporate the orange zest and vanilla extract into the creamed butter and sugars, then add the eggs one at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition to ensure homogeneity.
- Combine Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined to avoid overworking the dough which can make cookies tough. Fold in the chopped dark chocolate chunks evenly.
- Chill Dough: Cover the dough and refrigerate for at least two hours to allow the flavors to meld and the dough to firm up, aiding in cookie shape retention during baking.
- Shape and Bake: Form dough balls of desired size and place them on the prepared baking sheets with space for spreading. Optionally sprinkle a pinch of sea salt on top of each cookie to enhance the chocolate flavor. Bake for 11-13 minutes, or until edges are golden.
- Cool: Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely, ensuring they set properly and developing the perfect texture.
Notes
- Chilling the dough is essential for flavor development and helps in handling the dough easily.
- Use a sharp dark chocolate bar for chunks instead of chips for better texture and flavor.
- Sea salt sprinkled on top adds a delightful contrast and enhances the chocolate taste.
- Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week or freeze for longer storage.
- Adjust baking time according to cookie size; smaller cookies may require less time.
