Ina Garten Double Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe

A rich and indulgent treat, the Ina Garten Double Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe is perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a gathering, celebrating a birthday, or simply craving something sweet, these cookies will satisfy your chocolate cravings. Each bite offers a chewy texture and decadent flavor thanks to the generous amount of semisweet chocolate chunks. The use of unsweetened cocoa powder gives these cookies their deep chocolate base, making them a favorite among dessert lovers.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Decadent Flavor: These cookies are loaded with chocolate, ensuring every bite is a delicious experience.
• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, even beginner bakers can whip up these treats effortlessly.
• Perfect for Sharing: Yielding about 40 cookies, they are ideal for parties or gifts.
• Versatile Treat: Great for any occasion—from holiday gatherings to casual family dinners.
• Chewy Texture: The combination of ingredients creates a wonderfully chewy cookie that’s hard to resist.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the baking process, having the right tools on hand can make all the difference in your experience. Gather your essential kitchen equipment to ensure everything goes smoothly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer or hand mixer
• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Baking sheets
• Parchment paper

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer or hand mixer: Makes creaming butter and sugars easy and efficient, saving time and effort.
• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining dry and wet ingredients separately before mixing them together.
• Baking sheets: Provide a sturdy surface for cookie dough to bake evenly.

Ingredients

To create these heavenly cookies, gather the following ingredients:

For the Cookie Base

• ½ lb unsalted butter, room temperature
• 1 cup packed light brown sugar
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 tsp vanilla extract
• 2 extra-large eggs, room temperature

For the Chocolate Flavor

• ⅔ cup good unsweetened cocoa powder

For the Structure

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking soda
• 1 tsp kosher salt

For the Chocolate Chunks

• 1 ½ lbs semisweet chocolate chunks

How to Make Ina Garten Double Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line your baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugars

In a mixing bowl, cream together the unsalted butter, light brown sugar, and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy.

Step 3: Add Vanilla and Eggs

Beat in the vanilla extract first. Then add in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Slowly mix in the unsweetened cocoa powder until fully combined.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, sift or whisk together all-purpose flour, baking soda, and kosher salt. This ensures even distribution of dry ingredients.

Step 5: Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients

On low speed, add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients. Mix until just combined—be careful not to overmix!

Step 6: Fold in Chocolate Chunks

Gently fold in the semisweet chocolate chunks with a spatula until they are evenly distributed throughout the dough.

Step 7: Portion and Bake Cookies

Using a cookie scoop or spoon, drop scoops of dough onto prepared baking sheets. Flatten each scoop slightly before placing them in the oven. Bake for exactly 15 minutes.

Step 8: Cool Down

Once baked, allow cookies to cool on baking sheets for a few minutes. Transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely before enjoying!

How to Serve Ina Garten Double Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe

These cookies are perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a party or enjoying a quiet evening at home. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to enhance your experience.

With a Glass of Milk

• Pair these cookies with a cold glass of milk for the classic combination that satisfies both kids and adults alike.

Ice Cream Sandwiches

• Sandwich a scoop of your favorite ice cream between two cookies for a decadent dessert. Try vanilla, chocolate, or even mint chocolate chip!

Coffee Companion

• Enjoy these cookies alongside a fresh cup of coffee or espresso. The rich chocolate flavor complements the coffee’s bitterness beautifully.

Dessert Platter

• Serve an assortment of cookies on a dessert platter at gatherings. Include fruits and nuts for added variety and color.

Warm from the Oven

• For the best experience, serve these cookies warm right out of the oven. The melted chocolate chunks will be irresistible!

Gift Package

• Package these cookies in a decorative box or jar as a thoughtful homemade gift for friends and family.

How to Perfect Ina Garten Double Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe

Achieving the perfect cookie texture and flavor is easy with a few simple tips. Follow these suggestions to elevate your baking game.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your butter and eggs are at room temperature for better mixing and texture.
• Measure Flour Correctly: Spoon flour into your measuring cup and level it off to avoid dense cookies.
• Don’t Overmix: Mix just until combined when adding dry ingredients to maintain a chewy texture.
• Chill the Dough: For thicker cookies, chill the dough for 30 minutes before baking, which helps prevent spreading.
• Adjust Baking Time: Keep an eye on your cookies; they should look slightly underbaked when you take them out for that soft chewy center.
• Store Properly: Store cookies in an airtight container to keep them fresh longer. You can also freeze them for later enjoyment!

Best Side Dishes for Ina Garten Double Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe

Pairing side dishes with your double chocolate chip cookies can create an unforgettable dessert experience. Here are some tasty options:

1. Fresh Berries: A mix of strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries adds freshness that balances the rich chocolate flavors.
2. Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad can provide a refreshing contrast to the heaviness of the cookies.
3. Whipped Cream: Light and fluffy whipped cream can be dolloped on top of each cookie or served as a dip.
4. Chocolate Sauce: Drizzle warm chocolate sauce over the cookies for an extra indulgent treat.
5. Vanilla Yogurt: Creamy vanilla yogurt serves as a perfect dip, adding tanginess that offsets the sweetness.
6. Nut Butter Spread: Serve with almond or peanut butter spread for those who enjoy extra protein with their sweets.
7. Trail Mix: Offer a bowl of trail mix on the side for added crunch and texture alongside your soft cookies.
8. Ice Cream Toppings Bar: Create an ice cream toppings bar with nuts, sprinkles, and chocolate chips to let guests customize their desserts!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making the Ina Garten Double Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe, it’s easy to make a few missteps. Here are some common mistakes and how to avoid them.

• Boldly Overmixing: Mixing the dough too much can make the cookies tough. Mix just until combined for a chewy texture.
• Boldly Skipping the Chilling Time: Not chilling the dough can result in flat cookies. Chill for at least 30 minutes before baking for better shape.
• Boldly Using Cold Ingredients: Cold butter and eggs can affect the creaming process. Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for optimal results.
• Boldly Ignoring Oven Temperatures: Every oven is different; not checking your oven’s calibration may lead to uneven baking. Use an oven thermometer to ensure accurate temperatures.
• Boldly Not Measuring Accurately: Improper measurements can ruin cookie consistency. Use a kitchen scale or measuring cups for precise amounts.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store cookies in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 1 week in the fridge.

Freezing Ina Garten Double Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe

• Place cooled cookies in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Ina Garten Double Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and bake for 5-7 minutes for warm cookies.
• Microwave: Heat individual cookies for about 10-15 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm cookies for about 2-3 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about the Ina Garten Double Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe.

How do I make the dough ahead of time?

You can prepare the dough in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days or freeze it for up to 3 months. Just let it thaw before baking.

Can I substitute other types of chocolate?

Yes! Feel free to use dark chocolate chunks or even white chocolate chips if you prefer a different flavor profile in your cookies.

How do I know when my cookies are done?

The edges should be firm, while the center looks slightly soft and underbaked. They will continue to set as they cool on the baking sheet.

What makes this recipe a great choice?

The Ina Garten Double Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe is rich, chewy, and loaded with chocolate—perfect for any chocolate lover!

Final Thoughts

The Ina Garten Double Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe offers a delightful treat that is both indulgent and versatile. You can customize it by adding nuts or swapping different types of chocolate. Give this recipe a try—you won’t be disappointed!