Description
Delight in the perfect blend of zesty orange and rich dark chocolate with these Orange Dark Chocolate Chunk Cookies. Soft, chewy, and bursting with citrusy freshness complemented by chunks of bittersweet chocolate, these cookies are an irresistible treat for any occasion.
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
- 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 prepare for baking.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, cornstarch, and kosher sea salt until well combined for even distribution.
- Cream Butter and Sugars: Using a mixer, beat the softened unsalted butter with granulated sugar and packed brown sugar until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Add Flavorings and Eggs: Stir in the fresh orange zest and vanilla extract, then incorporate the eggs one at a time, mixing thoroughly to ensure a uniform batter.
- Combine Dry and Wet Mixtures: Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, blending just until combined to avoid overmixing which can toughen the cookies.
- Fold in Chocolate: Gently fold in the chopped dark chocolate chunks, distributing them evenly throughout the dough.
- Chill Dough: Cover the dough and refrigerate it for at least two hours; chilling firms the dough, helps develop flavors, and improves the texture of the cookies.
- Form Dough Balls and Bake: Scoop or form dough balls onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them to allow for spreading. Bake in the preheated oven for 11-13 minutes, until edges are golden but centers remain soft.
- Cool and Serve: Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes, then transfer to wire racks to cool completely. Optionally, sprinkle sea salt on top before serving to enhance flavors.
Notes
- Chilling the dough is crucial for the best texture and flavor development.
- Use high-quality dark chocolate for a richer taste.
- If you prefer, nuts like walnuts or pecans can be added for crunch.
- Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
- For a more intense orange flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of orange extract.
