There’s something incredibly satisfying about the balance of sweet and salty flavors, especially when it comes to cookies. Picture this: the moment you bite into a Sea Salt Chocolate Chunk Cookie, your taste buds are treated to a soft, chewy center loaded with rich, melted dark chocolate, crowned with the perfect sprinkle of sea salt. This classic treat is not just a dessert; it’s a delightful experience that transports you back to simpler, sweeter times.
What I love about this recipe is its simplicity—whipping up a batch takes less than 30 minutes, making it ideal for those sudden cravings or spontaneous gatherings. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or simply enjoy a comforting treat after a long day, these cookies are your go-to. Let’s dive into this easy and satisfying recipe that will have everyone coming back for more!
Why are Sea Salt Chocolate Chunk Cookies a must-try?
Incredible Flavor Combination: The delightful mix of sweet chocolate and a hint of sea salt creates an unforgettable taste that appeals to all dessert lovers.
Quick and Easy: With just a few simple steps, you can have fresh, warm cookies ready in under 30 minutes!
Ideal for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a cozy night in or a festive celebration, these cookies are sure to please guests and family alike.
Texture Perfection: Enjoy the contrast of a crisp exterior with a soft, gooey chocolate center in every bite.
Customizable: Add nuts or dried fruits for a personalized twist, making each batch uniquely yours!
These Sea Salt Chocolate Chunk Cookies are perfect for elevating your dessert game and making any moment special.
Sea Salt Chocolate Chunk Cookies Ingredients
• Let’s gather what you need!
For the Cookie Dough
- All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure to the cookies. Substitution: Gluten-free flour blend can be used for gluten-free cookies.
- Salt – Enhances flavor and balances sweetness. Note: Use fine salt for blending and flaked sea salt for topping.
- Baking Powder – Helps cookies rise slightly, giving them a fluffy texture. No direct substitutions; adjust carefully to maintain texture.
- Baking Soda – Also aids in rising and contributes to browning. Use baking powder as an alternative but adjust other leavening accordingly.
- Unsalted Butter (Room Temperature) – Adds richness and moisture; essential for texture. Substitution: Margarine can work but may affect flavor.
- Brown Sugar – Provides moisture and a richer flavor due to molasses content. Substitution: Light brown or dark brown sugar can be used interchangeably.
- White Sugar – Helps in sweetening and achieving a crispy edge. Can be replaced with coconut sugar for a lower glycemic index.
- Egg – Binds ingredients together and adds richness. Substitution: 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce can replace one egg for a vegan option.
- Egg Yolk – Enhances richness and moisture in the cookies. Important for the texture; omit only if replacing with a full egg.
- Vanilla Extract – Adds depth of flavor. Substitution: Try almond extract for a different flavor profile.
- Dark Chocolate Chunks (12 ounces) – The star of the cookie; provides a rich chocolate flavor. Substitution: Any type of chocolate (milk or white) can be used, adjusting sweetness accordingly.
For Topping
- Sea Salt Flakes (1 tablespoon) – Added on top for a burst of salty flavor. Adjust quantity to taste.
Now you’re ready to bake some Sea Salt Chocolate Chunk Cookies that are sure to satisfy your cravings!
How to Make Sea Salt Chocolate Chunk Cookies
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Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 350°F. This step creates the perfect environment for baking your cookies, ensuring they turn out golden and delicious.
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Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, combine all-purpose flour, salt, baking powder, and baking soda. Whisk them together until well blended, then set aside to await the wet ingredients.
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Cream Butter and Sugars: In a large mixing bowl, beat the unsalted butter, brown sugar, and white sugar together on medium speed for about 2 minutes until fluffy and light in color. This is key for that lovely texture!
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Add Wet Ingredients: Introduce the egg, egg yolk, and vanilla extract into the butter-sugar mixture. Mix until everything is well combined; you’ll want a smooth, creamy consistency.
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Combine Mixtures: Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep your cookies soft and chewy.
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Fold in Chocolate: With a spatula, carefully fold in your dark chocolate chunks. This step ensures every cookie is packed with melty chocolate goodness.
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Scoop Dough: Using an ice cream scoop, portion out the cookie dough and place it onto a parchment-lined baking sheet, giving them enough space to spread out.
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Bake: Slide your baking sheet into the oven and bake for 12-14 minutes, until the edges are golden brown but the centers remain soft.
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Add Sea Salt: As soon as you take them out of the oven, sprinkle sea salt flakes over the tops. This contrast truly elevates the flavors!
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Cool Down: Allow your cookies to cool on the baking sheet for about 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. Enjoy them warm for the best experience.
Optional: Serve with a glass of milk for a classic pairing!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Sea Salt Chocolate Chunk Cookies
Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week, ensuring they stay soft and fresh.
Fridge: If you prefer a firmer texture, you can store them in the fridge for up to 2 weeks; just allow them to come back to room temperature before enjoying.
Freezer: Freeze baked cookies in a single layer for up to 3 months. Use parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.
Reheating: To enjoy warm cookies, reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 5-7 minutes. This brings back that freshly baked taste!
What to Serve with Sea Salt Chocolate Chunk Cookies?
Elevate your dessert experience by pairing these delightful cookies with the perfect accompaniments.
- Rich Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream complements the warm cookies, creating a blissful contrast of temperatures and textures.
- Fresh Berries: Juicy strawberries or raspberries add a burst of freshness that cuts through the sweetness, enhancing every bite. The tanginess brightens the indulgence, making it feel lighter.
- Espresso or Coffee: The deep flavors of espresso transform each cookie into an elegant treat, perfect for those late-night chats or weekend brunches.
- Salted Caramel Sauce: Drizzling warm salted caramel over the cookies intensifies their sweet and salty theme, adding a luxurious touch.
- Chocolate Milk: A classic pairing that kids and adults alike adore; the rich chocolate flavor takes the cookies up a notch while contrasting nicely with the salted finish.
- Milkshake: Blend your favorite flavors for a deliciously indulgent milkshake that mirrors the cookie’s sweetness and texture, making it a fun dessert to enjoy together.
- Nutty Trail Mix: A handful of crunchy nuts and dried fruits adds a satisfying texture and balances the sweet cookies with wholesome flavors. This is a perfect snack to munch on after enjoying them warm.
- Hot Chocolate: For the ultimate cozy treat, serve these cookies alongside a cup of rich hot chocolate topped with whipped cream, making it an irresistible combination for winter evenings.
Expert Tips for Sea Salt Chocolate Chunk Cookies
• Butter Temperature: Use room temperature butter for proper creaming; cold butter results in dense cookies instead of the desired tender texture.
• Avoid Overmixing: Mix dough until just combined to ensure cookies remain soft and chewy; overmixing develops gluten and leads to toughness.
• Chill Dough Optional: For thicker cookies, chill the dough for 30 minutes before baking; this helps maintain shape and flavor.
• Chocolate Quality: Use high-quality dark chocolate chunks for richer flavor; low-quality chocolate might not melt well or taste as delightful.
• Cooling Time: Allow cookies to cool slightly on the baking sheet before transferring them; this prevents them from breaking apart.
These tips will ensure your Sea Salt Chocolate Chunk Cookies are a delicious success!
Sea Salt Chocolate Chunk Cookies Variations
Feel free to put your personal twist on these scrumptious cookies and delight in unique flavors!
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Nutty Crunch: Fold in 1 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans for added texture and a nutty flavor contrast.
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Fruity Surprise: Mix in 1/2 cup of dried cherries or cranberries for a delightful burst of tartness in each bite.
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Minty Fresh: Add 1 teaspoon of peppermint extract to the dough for a holiday-inspired variation that’s refreshingly delicious.
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Spicy Kick: Incorporate a pinch of cayenne pepper for an unexpected heat that pairs beautifully with the sweet chocolate.
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Oatmeal Boost: Swap out 1/2 cup of flour for rolled oats for a heartier cookie that adds rustic charm and chewiness.
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Coconut Delight: Fold in 1/2 cup of shredded coconut to enhance the flavor profile and introduce a tropical flair.
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Chocolate Swap: Try semi-sweet or white chocolate chunks instead of dark chocolate for a different sweetness and flavor profile.
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Zesty Twist: Add the zest of 1 orange or lemon to bring a refreshing citrus brightness that complements the richness of the chocolate.
Make Ahead Options
These Sea Salt Chocolate Chunk Cookies are ideal for busy home cooks looking to save time! To prepare ahead, you can mix the dry ingredients (flour, salt, baking powder, and baking soda) and store them in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Additionally, the cookie dough can be formed into balls and refrigerated for up to 24 hours, or frozen for up to 6 months. When you’re ready to bake, simply preheat your oven, place the dough in the oven directly from the fridge or freezer (adding a couple of minutes to the baking time), and enjoy delicious, fresh cookies that taste just as good as when made immediately!
Sea Salt Chocolate Chunk Cookies Recipe FAQs
How do I choose ripe ingredients for my Sea Salt Chocolate Chunk Cookies?
Absolutely! The most important ingredient to ensure quality cookies is your butter. Make sure it’s at room temperature for proper creaming; it should be soft but not melted. Fresh eggs are also crucial; check for a clean shell and a good expiration date. If you’re using chocolate chunks, opt for high-quality dark chocolate as this makes a significant flavor difference.
What is the best way to store my Sea Salt Chocolate Chunk Cookies?
I recommend storing your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. This keeps them soft and delicious! If you’re concerned about them drying out, placing a slice of bread in the container can help maintain humidity. For longer storage, you can freeze them.
Can I freeze the dough for my Sea Salt Chocolate Chunk Cookies?
Yes! You can freeze the unbaked cookie dough for up to 6 months. Simply scoop the dough onto a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. When you’re ready to bake, let the dough sit at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes before baking, and add 2-3 minutes to the baking time.
What should I do if my cookies are too flat after baking?
If your Sea Salt Chocolate Chunk Cookies turn out too flat, it might be due to overbeating the butter or not using enough flour. Make sure the butter is softened to room temperature, not melted. Additionally, ensure your flour is properly measured; too little flour will lead to flatter cookies. For thicker cookies, consider chilling the dough for at least 30 minutes before baking.
Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of for these cookies?
Very! If you’re baking for someone with a gluten intolerance, use a gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour. Additionally, the recipe can be made vegan by substituting the egg with 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce and opting for dairy-free chocolate. Always check your ingredients for potential allergens, especially the chocolate you select, as some may contain traces of nuts.
Sea Salt Chocolate Chunk Cookies to Satisfy Your Cravings
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F.
- In a medium bowl, combine all-purpose flour, salt, baking powder, and baking soda. Whisk until well blended, then set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the unsalted butter, brown sugar, and white sugar together on medium speed for 2 minutes until fluffy.
- Add the egg, egg yolk, and vanilla extract to the mixture and mix until smooth and creamy.
- Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring gently until just combined.
- Carefully fold in the dark chocolate chunks.
- Using an ice cream scoop, place portions of cookie dough onto a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Bake for 12-14 minutes until the edges are golden brown but the centers remain soft.
- As soon as you take them out of the oven, sprinkle sea salt flakes over the tops.
- Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for about 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.