Midnight Chocolate Cookies
If you’re in search of the ultimate chocolate indulgence, look no further than these Midnight Chocolate Cookies. With layers of rich bittersweet and unsweetened chocolate, these cookies are for the chocolate lover who craves a deep, intense flavor profile. They’re not just cookies; they’re an experience, a moment of bliss that you can savor with every bite. Whether you’re enjoying them straight from the oven or letting them cool down for a midnight snack, there’s something magical about these cookies that keeps you coming back for more.
Why This Midnight Chocolate Cookies Stands Out
These Midnight Chocolate Cookies are incredibly unique due to their combination of different types of chocolate. The bittersweet and unsweetened chocolate create a rich, complex flavor, while the addition of dark brown sugar provides a subtle sweetness that balances the intensity. What sets them apart are the Hershey’s Special Dark kisses tucked inside, giving each bite an unexpected burst of chocolate. Each cookie is a chewy, fudgy delight that will satisfy even the most discerning chocolate lover.
What Goes Into Midnight Chocolate Cookies
To create these delectable cookies, you will need the following ingredients:
- 10 ounces bittersweet chocolate, broken into chunks
- 6 ounces unsweetened chocolate, coarsely chopped
- 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 3/4 cup special dark cocoa powder
- 1 1/4 tsp. salt
- 1 1/4 tsp. baking soda
- 2 sticks unsalted butter, at room temperature
- 1 2/3 cups dark brown sugar
- 2 eggs
- 1 tsp. vanilla
- 2 tsp. espresso powder
- 10 ounces bittersweet chocolate chips
- 1 bag Hershey’s Special Dark kisses
Hardware & Gadgets
Gathering the right tools will make your baking experience enjoyable and efficient. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Mixing bowls – for combining wet and dry ingredients.
- Measuring cups and spoons – accuracy is key in baking.
- Whisk – perfect for mixing the ingredients smoothly.
- Rubber spatula – for scraping down the sides of the bowl.
- Baking sheets – lined with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- Cooling rack – to allow the cookies to cool evenly.
Midnight Chocolate Cookies — Do This Next
Creating your Midnight Chocolate Cookies is a straightforward process that yields delicious results. Follow these steps:
Step 1: Melt the Chocolate
In a heatproof bowl, combine the bittersweet and unsweetened chocolate. Place the bowl over a pot of simmering water, stirring occasionally until the chocolate is completely melted and smooth. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
Step 2: Prepare Dry Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, special dark cocoa powder, salt, and baking soda. Set this mixture aside for later.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, beat the unsalted butter and dark brown sugar together until light and fluffy. This usually takes about 2-3 minutes with an electric mixer.
Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla
Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, incorporate the vanilla and espresso powder, blending until combined.
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix!
Step 6: Fold in the Chocolate Chunks and Chips
Gently fold the melted chocolate and chocolate chips into the dough until well incorporated.
Step 7: Scoop and Chill
Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, drop rounded balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheets. Press a Hershey’s Special Dark kiss into the center of each cookie. Chill the dough for at least 30 minutes in the refrigerator to help the cookies maintain their shape while baking.
Step 8: Bake
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the cookies for 10-12 minutes until the edges are set but the centers remain soft. Let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a cooling rack.
Warm & Cool Weather Spins
These cookies can be enjoyed year-round, but here are some tips for different weather conditions:
- In warm weather, consider chilling the dough longer to prevent spreading.
- In cooler weather, you can enjoy them warm from the oven with a glass of milk or a cup of coffee.
- For a festive touch during the holidays, add a sprinkle of sea salt on top before baking.
Errors to Dodge
There are a few common missteps to avoid when making your Midnight Chocolate Cookies:
- Overbaking – Keep an eye on your cookies; they should look slightly underbaked in the center.
- Not chilling the dough – This step is crucial for preventing flat cookies.
- Using cold ingredients – Make sure your butter is at room temperature for the best texture.
- Skipping the espresso powder – It enhances the chocolate flavor, so don’t leave it out!
Store, Freeze & Reheat
To keep your Midnight Chocolate Cookies fresh and delicious, follow these storage tips:
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
- For longer storage, freeze the cookie dough balls before baking. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
- To reheat, simply pop them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 5 minutes. They will taste fresh and gooey!
Handy Q&A
Can I use milk chocolate instead of bittersweet chocolate?
While you can use milk chocolate, it will yield a sweeter cookie. If you prefer a richer taste, stick with bittersweet chocolate.
What can I substitute for espresso powder?
If you don’t have espresso powder, you can use instant coffee granules or omit it altogether. Just know that the chocolate flavor might be slightly less intense.
How do I know when the cookies are done?
The cookies should be set around the edges but still look soft in the center. They will continue to cook slightly after being removed from the oven.
Can I add nuts to these cookies?
Absolutely! Chopped walnuts or pecans would add a delightful crunch to your Midnight Chocolate Cookies. Just fold them in with the chocolate chips.
Reader Favorites
If you love these Midnight Chocolate Cookies, you should check out these other reader favorites:
- Pumpkin Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookies
- Whole Wheat Chocolate Chip Cookies
- Dulce De Leche Brown Butter Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars
Bring It Home
Now that you have the recipe for these irresistible Midnight Chocolate Cookies, it’s time to gather your ingredients and start baking. Whether for a special occasion or just because you crave something sweet, these cookies are sure to impress. With their deep chocolate flavor and chewy texture, they embody everything we love about homemade cookies. So preheat that oven, grab your mixing bowl, and get ready to indulge in the ultimate chocolate treat!
Midnight Chocolate Cookies
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a heatproof bowl, combine the bittersweet and unsweetened chocolate. Place the bowl over a pot of simmering water, stirring occasionally until the chocolate is completely melted and smooth. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
- In another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, special dark cocoa powder, salt, and baking soda. Set this mixture aside for later.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the unsalted butter and dark brown sugar together until light and fluffy. This usually takes about 2-3 minutes with an electric mixer.
- Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, incorporate the vanilla and espresso powder, blending until combined.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix!
- Gently fold the melted chocolate and chocolate chips into the dough until well incorporated.
- Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, drop rounded balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheets. Press a Hershey’s Special Dark kiss into the center of each cookie. Chill the dough for at least 30 minutes in the refrigerator to help the cookies maintain their shape while baking.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the cookies for 10-12 minutes until the edges are set but the centers remain soft. Let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a cooling rack.
Notes
- Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
- Freeze the cookie dough balls for up to 3 months before baking.
- Reheat in a 350°F oven for about 5 minutes for a fresh taste.
