Chocolate Butter Cookies
Full Recipe
Ingredients
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170 g (¾ cup) butter, softened
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160 g (1 ¼ cups) icing sugar
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1 ⅛ teaspoons baking powder
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320 g (2 ½ cups) all-purpose flour
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1 tablespoon cornstarch
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2 tablespoons cocoa powder
Cooking Directions
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Preheat the Oven
Set your oven to 170°C (340°F) so it’s hot and ready when your cookie dough is done. Line a baking tray with parchment paper or a silicone mat. -
Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and icing sugar together until light, creamy, and fluffy. This step gives the cookies their melt-in-your-mouth texture. -
Mix in the Dry Ingredients
In another bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, cornstarch, and cocoa powder. Gradually fold this mixture into the butter and sugar. Mix until a soft dough forms. -
Shape the Cookies
Scoop small portions of dough, roll them into balls, and flatten slightly on the baking tray. You can also pipe them using a star nozzle for a decorative look. Leave some space between each cookie, as they will spread slightly. -
Bake
Place the tray in the oven and bake for 14–16 minutes, or until the edges are set but the cookies are still slightly soft in the center. -
Cool and Serve
Allow the cookies to cool on the tray for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. Enjoy them warm, or store once completely cooled.
Nutrients (per cookie, approx. 20 cookies)
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Calories: 115 kcal
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Carbohydrates: 14 g
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Protein: 1 g
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Fat: 6 g
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Sugar: 7 g
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Fiber: 0.6 g
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These cookies are all about simplicity and indulgence. With just six pantry staples, you can bake a batch of homemade cookies in under 20 minutes. The flavor is a perfect balance of buttery richness and cocoa depth, while the texture is tender yet crisp around the edges. They’re versatile enough for any occasion—snack time, lunchbox treats, or even holiday cookie platters.
The Origins and Inspiration Behind the Dish
Butter cookies have European roots, most famously associated with Danish baking traditions. This version adds cocoa to transform the classic into a chocolate lover’s dream. It takes inspiration from traditional shortbread-style cookies but with a softer bite, thanks to cornstarch. Over time, recipes like these became popular worldwide because they’re inexpensive to make and never fail to please.
Ingredient Spotlight
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Butter: Provides richness and that signature melt-in-the-mouth texture.
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Icing sugar: Unlike granulated sugar, it blends smoothly for a soft crumb.
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Cornstarch: Gives tenderness and prevents the cookies from becoming too dense.
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Cocoa powder: Adds depth and an indulgent chocolatey note.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Once cooled, store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. They also freeze beautifully—stack them in layers with parchment paper in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. To refresh frozen cookies, warm them in the oven at 150°C (300°F) for 3–4 minutes.
Common Variations to Try
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Double Chocolate: Add chocolate chips to the dough.
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Nutty Twist: Stir in chopped hazelnuts, almonds, or pecans.
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Spiced Version: Add a pinch of cinnamon or chili powder for a surprising flavor kick.
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Festive Style: Dip half of each cookie in melted white or dark chocolate and sprinkle with crushed candy canes or nuts.
Pairing Recommendations
These cookies pair beautifully with a hot cup of coffee, tea, or hot chocolate. For a dessert platter, serve them alongside fresh berries or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. If you’re entertaining, plate them with other cookies like shortbread or biscotti for variety.
Health Benefits
While cookies are definitely a treat, these offer a few perks. Butter provides fat-soluble vitamins like A and D, while cocoa is rich in antioxidants that support heart health. Cornstarch keeps them light, making them less heavy compared to dense baked goods. Moderation is key, but they certainly satisfy a sweet craving without too much fuss.
