Orange Dark Chocolate Chunk Cookies Recipe

Brighten up your cookie platter with these Orange Dark Chocolate Chunk Cookies. If you’re looking for a delightful treat that combines the bright zing of orange with the rich depth of dark chocolate, you’ve come to the right place! This Orange Dark Chocolate Chunk Cookies Recipe has become a favorite in my house. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want to whip up something special or for family gatherings where everyone is sure to enjoy them.

These cookies are not just delicious; they also fill your kitchen with an inviting aroma that makes it feel like a warm hug. Whether you’re sharing them with friends or sneaking a couple for yourself, these cookies hit just the right spot!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to make: With simple steps and common ingredients, you can whip these up without any hassle.
• Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the combination of flavors, making these cookies a hit at any gathering.
• Perfect for meal prep: Chill the dough ahead of time to bake fresh cookies whenever you want!
• Delicious flavor combination: The contrast of citrus and chocolate creates a unique taste that’s hard to resist.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Making these cookies is a breeze with just a handful of simple, wholesome ingredients. Gather them up, and let’s get started on this tasty adventure!

For the Dough

• 2 2/3 cup all purpose flour
• 1 1/4 tsp baking soda
• 1 tsp cornstarch
• 1 tsp kosher sea salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 1/4 cup brown sugar (packed)
• 1 tbsp orange zest
• 2 tsp vanilla extract
• 2 eggs

For the Chocolate

• 6 oz Orange Dark Chocolate bar (chopped, (Lindt, Theo, Chocolove etc.))
• sea salt (for garnish)

Variations

This recipe is quite flexible and lends itself well to personal touches if you’re feeling adventurous! Here are some ideas to make it your own:

• Add nuts: Toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans for extra crunch.
• Try different chocolates: Substitute half of the dark chocolate with white chocolate chunks for a sweeter twist.
• Include spices: A pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg can add warmth and depth to the flavor profile.
• Make it gluten-free: Use a gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour for a gluten-free version!

How to Make Orange Dark Chocolate Chunk Cookies Recipe

Step 1: Melt the Butter

Start by placing the butter in a microwave-safe bowl and heating it for about 30-45 seconds. You want it almost completely melted but with some soft pieces still intact. This helps create that perfect chewy texture we love in cookies!

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, cornstarch, and salt. This step is important because it ensures even distribution of leavening agents and prevents clumping.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugars

In your stand mixer (or using a hand mixer), beat together the melted butter and both sugars on medium speed for about one minute until well combined. Add in the orange zest and vanilla extract, mixing again for another minute. The sugars help aerate the batter, creating those lovely fluffy cookies.

Step 4: Add Eggs and Dry Ingredients

Now it’s time to add your eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Once incorporated, reduce your mixer speed to low and gradually add in your dry mixture. Beat until just combined; we want that soft dough without overmixing!

Step 5: Fold in Chocolate

Gently fold in your chopped Orange Dark Chocolate using a spatula—don’t forget those tasty shavings left on your cutting board! Cover your bowl with plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for at least two hours or overnight if you can wait.

Step 6: Preheat Oven & Prepare Sheets

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius). Line your baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats—this prevents sticking and helps with even baking.

Step 7: Shape Cookies & Bake

Using a standard-sized cookie scoop (about 1.5 tablespoons), form balls of dough and place them on your prepared sheets with enough space between each ball. If desired, sprinkle lightly with sea salt before baking.

Step 8: Bake & Cool

Bake your cookies for about 11-13 minutes, rotating halfway through for even baking. They are ready when they turn golden brown around the edges! Let them cool on the pan for 3-4 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack where they can cool completely.

And there you have it—a scrumptious batch of Orange Dark Chocolate Chunk Cookies that will surely delight everyone around! Enjoy every bite!

Pro Tips for Making Orange Dark Chocolate Chunk Cookies Recipe

Baking these cookies can be a delightful experience, and with a few handy tips, you can ensure they turn out perfectly every time!

• Use room temperature ingredients: Bringing your butter and eggs to room temperature helps them incorporate better into the dough, leading to a smoother texture in your cookies.

• Don’t skip the chill: Allowing the cookie dough to chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours (or overnight) enhances the flavors and prevents them from spreading too much while baking.

• Check for doneness: Since ovens vary, start checking your cookies a minute or two earlier than the recommended baking time. They should be golden brown around the edges but still soft in the center.

• Experiment with chocolate types: While this recipe calls for dark chocolate, feel free to mix in some milk or white chocolate chunks too! The combination will add an extra layer of flavor that complements the orange zest beautifully.

• Store properly: To keep your cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. You can also freeze them for longer shelf life—just make sure they are fully cooled before freezing!

How to Serve Orange Dark Chocolate Chunk Cookies Recipe

These vibrant cookies are not only delicious but also visually appealing, making them perfect for any occasion. Here are some creative ways to present and enjoy them!

Garnishes

• Sea salt sprinkle: A light dusting of sea salt on top of your baked cookies enhances their flavor and adds a lovely contrast to the sweetness.

• Citrus zest: Grate some additional orange zest over the cookies right before serving for a refreshing touch that highlights their citrus flavor.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla ice cream: The creamy richness of vanilla ice cream perfectly balances the zesty flavors of the cookies and makes for an indulgent dessert experience.

• Fruit salad: A light fruit salad featuring oranges, berries, and melons provides a refreshing contrast to the rich chocolate cookies and adds a burst of color to your dessert table.

• Herbal tea: Pair these cookies with a fragrant herbal tea like chamomile or mint. The warm beverage complements the citrus notes while providing a soothing finish to your treat.

• Coffee: Enjoying these cookies with a cup of freshly brewed coffee is always a classic choice. The bitterness of coffee pairs beautifully with the sweetness of dark chocolate and orange.

These serving suggestions will elevate your cookie experience and impress guests at any gathering! Enjoy baking and sharing these delightful Orange Dark Chocolate Chunk Cookies!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Orange Dark Chocolate Chunk Cookies are perfect for meal prep! You can easily make a batch ahead of time and enjoy them throughout the week or save some for later. Here’s how to store and preserve their deliciousness:

Storing Leftovers

• Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
• For optimal freshness, you can separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Freezing

• Allow cookies to cool completely before freezing.
• Place cookies in a freezer-safe container, layering them with parchment paper.
• They can be frozen for up to three months—perfect for unexpected guests or sweet cravings!

Reheating

• To enjoy a warm cookie, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place cookies on a baking sheet and heat for about 5 minutes, or until warmed through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about the Orange Dark Chocolate Chunk Cookies Recipe:

Can I use other types of chocolate instead of dark chocolate?

Absolutely! While dark chocolate pairs beautifully with the orange flavor, you can substitute it with milk chocolate or even white chocolate if you prefer a sweeter taste.

How can I make this Orange Dark Chocolate Chunk Cookies Recipe gluten-free?

To make these cookies gluten-free, simply swap out the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend. The texture may vary slightly, but they will still be delicious!

How long does it take to prepare the Orange Dark Chocolate Chunk Cookies Recipe?

The preparation time is quite short! It only takes about 10 minutes to mix the ingredients together. Just remember to chill the dough for at least 2 hours before baking.

What is the best way to ensure my cookies stay soft and chewy?

For soft and chewy cookies, avoid overbaking them. Remove from the oven when they are just golden around the edges; they will continue to cook while cooling.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy creating these delightful Orange Dark Chocolate Chunk Cookies as much as I do! They’re a wonderful treat that combines vibrant flavors and rich chocolate—perfect for sharing with friends and family or keeping all to yourself! Don’t hesitate to experiment with your favorite mix-ins or variations. Happy baking, and may your kitchen be filled with warmth and sweetness!