Ina Garten Double Chocolate Cookies

Introduction

If you’re a fan of chocolate and love the gooey richness of fresh-out-of-the-oven cookies, Ina Garten’s Double Chocolate Chip Cookies recipe will become your new guilty pleasure. This recipe is a chocolate lover’s dream and delivers a perfectly soft, chewy, and indulgent treat that’s perfect for sharing with family and friends—or keeping all to yourself. Let’s dive into the recipe, complete with detailed ingredients and step-by-step instructions.

Detailed Ingredients with Measures

– Unsalted butter: 1 cup (room temperature)
– Granulated sugar: 1 cup
– Light brown sugar: 1 cup (packed)
– Pure vanilla extract: 2 teaspoons
– Extra-large eggs: 2
– Unsweetened cocoa powder: ⅔ cup
– All-purpose flour: 2 cups
– Baking soda: 1 teaspoon
– Kosher salt: ½ teaspoon
– Semisweet chocolate chips: 1 ½ cups

Prep Time

This recipe requires only about 15 minutes of preparation time. During this short amount of time, you’ll combine the dry ingredients, blend the creamy base, and mix everything together to form cookie dough that’s packed with chocolate goodness.

Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

Cook Time

Bake the cookies in the oven for approximately 10-12 minutes. Make sure to keep an eye on them for that perfect balance of crisp edges and a chewy middle.

Total Time

Including preparation and baking, the total time required for this recipe is around 25 minutes.

Yield

This recipe yields about 36 cookies, depending on the size of the dough scoops you make. Whether you want to serve them at a gathering or enjoy them over several days, you’ll have plenty to share or savor.

Enjoy baking and indulging in these rich, double chocolate chip delights! They are destined to become a go-to treat for any occasion.

Detailed Directions and Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats to prevent sticking and ensure an even bake.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a medium-sized mixing bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, salt, and cocoa powder. Set the bowl aside for later use.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugars

Using a stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment (or a handheld mixer), beat the room-temperature butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar together. Mix on medium speed until the mixture is light, fluffy, and well-combined, which should take about 3-4 minutes.

Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla Extract

Add the eggs one at a time to the butter and sugar mixture, making sure each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next. Then, add the pure vanilla extract and mix well until the mixture is smooth.

Step 5: Incorporate Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the sifted dry ingredients into the wet mixture in small batches. Set your mixer to low speed and mix just until combined. Be careful not to over-mix, as this can affect the texture of your cookies.

Step 6: Fold in Chocolate Chips

Gently fold in the semisweet chocolate chips using a spatula or wooden spoon. Ensure the chips are evenly distributed throughout the dough.

Step 7: Portion the Dough

Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, portion out the cookie dough onto the prepared baking sheets. Space the dough balls about 2 inches apart to allow for spreading during baking.

Step 8: Bake the Cookies

Place the baking sheets in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are set and slightly crisp but the centers remain soft and gooey. Rotate the baking sheets halfway through the baking time to ensure even baking.

Step 9: Cool the Cookies

Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheets for about 5 minutes. Then, transfer the cookies to a wire cooling rack to cool completely before serving.

Notes

Note 1: Cocoa Powder Selection

For deeper chocolate flavor, consider using high-quality Dutch-processed cocoa powder, which provides a richer taste and color.

Note 2: Measuring Flour

To ensure accuracy, spoon the flour into the measuring cup and level it off with a knife, rather than scooping directly from the bag to avoid packed flour.

Note 3: Storage

Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4-5 days. You can also freeze the cookies or cookie dough for later use.

Note 4: Adding Nuts

If desired, you can add chopped nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, to the cookie dough for added texture and crunch.

Note 5: Adjusting Sweetness

If you prefer a less sweet cookie, you can reduce the amount of granulated sugar or use bittersweet chocolate chips instead of semisweet.

Note 6: Oven Variations

Baking times may vary depending on your oven. Begin checking your cookies a few minutes before the suggested bake time to ensure they don’t overbake.

Cook Techniques

Properly Melt the Chocolate

To achieve a smooth and silky melted chocolate, use a double boiler method or microwave in short intervals, stirring frequently to avoid burning.

Mix the Wet and Dry Ingredients Separately

Combine the wet and dry ingredients in separate bowls before mixing them together to ensure even distribution and consistent texture in the cookie dough.

Chill the Dough

Chilling the dough for at least 30 minutes helps solidify the fats, resulting in thicker and chewier cookies when baked.

Use a Cookie Scoop

For evenly sized cookies, use a cookie scoop to portion out the dough. This ensures consistent baking and uniform results.

Monitor the Baking Time

Bake the cookies only until the edges are just set while the centers may appear soft. Overbaking can result in crunchy rather than chewy cookies.

Let the Cookies Cool Properly

After removing the cookies from the oven, allow them to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes. Then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before serving.

FAQ

Can I use milk chocolate instead of semisweet?

Yes, you can substitute milk chocolate if you prefer a sweeter cookie, but it may alter the overall flavor balance.

Do I have to chill the cookie dough?

Chilling the dough is highly recommended as it improves the texture and enhances the flavor of the cookies.

What is the best way to store these cookies?

Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or freeze for longer storage.

Can I make these cookies gluten-free?

Yes, you can use a 1:1 gluten-free flour substitute, but the texture may slightly differ.

How can I make the cookies extra soft?

Avoid overbaking, use room temperature butter, and stick to the recipe to ensure the cookies remain soft and chewy.

Can I add nuts or other mix-ins?

Absolutely! You can add chopped nuts, dried fruits, or other mix-ins to customize the cookies to your taste.

Why did my cookies spread too much?

This can happen if the dough wasn’t chilled thoroughly or if the butter was too soft when mixed. Make sure to chill the dough as per the recipe instructions.

Conclusion

Ina Garten’s Double Chocolate Chip Cookies recipe is a delightful treat for chocolate lovers. With its rich, gooey consistency and perfect balance of sweetness, these cookies are ideal for any occasion. They offer a simple yet indulgent way to satisfy your dessert cravings, making them a must-try recipe in your baking repertoire.

More recipes suggestions and combination

Classic Chocolate Chip Cookies

If you prefer the traditional choice, try baking a batch of classic chocolate chip cookies for a nostalgic flavor everyone loves.

Peanut Butter Chocolate Cookies

For a nutty twist, add creamy peanut butter to your cookie base and mix in chocolate chips for a decadent combination.

White Chocolate & Macadamia Nut Cookies

Switch it up by incorporating white chocolate chunks and crunchy macadamia nuts into your cookie recipe for a luscious and unique alternative.

Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookies

Combine the hearty texture of oatmeal with sweet chocolate chips for a healthier yet equally satisfying dessert option.

Salted Caramel Chocolate Cookies

Elevate your cookies with gooey caramel pieces and a sprinkle of sea salt, creating a perfect balance between salty and sweet.

Dark Chocolate Raspberry Cookies

Blend dark chocolate with tart raspberries for an elegant and tangy cookie flavor that feels like a gourmet treat.

Mint Chocolate Chip Cookies

Infuse your cookies with a refreshing hint of mint and mix in semi-sweet chocolate chips for a cool and rich dessert.

Triple Chocolate Cookies

Go all out by combining milk, white, and dark chocolate chips for an intensely chocolatey cookie perfect for chocoholics.