Ina Garten Double Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe

A delicious treat awaits you with the Ina Garten Double Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe. These cookies are perfect for any occasion, from a cozy family gathering to a festive holiday party. Bursting with flavor and loaded with chocolate chunks, they are sure to please any chocolate lover. With their rich cocoa base and chewy texture, these cookies stand out as an indulgent delight.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make – With straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for both novice and experienced bakers.
• Rich Flavor – The combination of unsweetened cocoa powder and semisweet chocolate chunks creates a deeply satisfying chocolate experience.
• Perfect Texture – Enjoy the chewy consistency that balances perfectly with the melting chocolate bits in every bite.
• Versatile – Great for sharing at parties or enjoying as a sweet treat after dinner.
• Crowd-Pleaser – With 40 servings, there’s enough to satisfy everyone’s cravings.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into baking, gather all the necessary tools to ensure a smooth process. Having the right equipment makes all the difference in achieving those perfect cookies.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer
• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups
• Baking sheets
• Parchment paper

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer – Makes creaming butter and sugar effortless, ensuring a light and fluffy texture.
• Mixing bowls – Essential for combining ingredients efficiently without making a mess.
• Baking sheets – Provide a sturdy surface for baking your cookies evenly.

Ingredients

A deeply chocolatey and chewy cookie with a rich cocoa base and loaded with semisweet chocolate chunks for the ultimate chocolate lover’s treat.

For the Cookie Dough

• 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

Dry Ingredients

• ⅔ cup good unsweetened cocoa powder
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking soda
• 1 tsp kosher salt

For Chocolatey Goodness

• 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 the Butter and Sugars

In your stand mixer, cream together the unsalted butter, light brown sugar, and granulated sugar. Beat until the mixture is light and fluffy.

Step 3: Add Vanilla and Eggs

Add in the vanilla extract. Then, incorporate the extra-large eggs, one at a time. Ensure each egg is fully mixed before adding the next. Mix in the cocoa powder until combined.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

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

Step 5: Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients

On low speed, gradually add the dry mixture into your wet ingredients. Mix until just combined. Be careful not to overmix—this keeps your cookies tender.

Step 6: Fold in Chocolate Chunks

Gently fold in the semisweet chocolate chunks. This will create pockets of melted chocolate in your cookies.

Step 7: Scoop and Bake

Drop scoops of dough onto lined baking sheets. Flatten them slightly for even baking. Bake in preheated oven for exactly 15 minutes.

Step 8: Cool Down

Allow cookies to cool on baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy!

How to Serve Ina Garten Double Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe

These delicious cookies can be enjoyed in various ways, making them a versatile treat for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply indulging at home, here are some serving suggestions to elevate your cookie experience.

With a Glass of Milk

• Classic pairing – Enjoy these cookies with a cold glass of milk to balance the rich chocolate flavor.

Ice Cream Sandwiches

• Creamy delight – Use two cookies to sandwich your favorite ice cream for a decadent dessert.

Warm from the Oven

• Freshly baked – Serve them warm directly from the oven for an irresistibly gooey texture.

Dessert Platter

• Variety is key – Place your cookies on a platter alongside other desserts like brownies or fruit tarts for a delightful spread.

Gift Packaging

• Sweet gifts – Package cookies in decorative boxes or bags to share with friends and family as thoughtful gifts.

How to Perfect Ina Garten Double Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe

To ensure your cookies turn out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips that can enhance flavor and texture.

• Use quality chocolate – Opt for high-quality semisweet chocolate chunks for richer flavor and better melting.
• Room temperature ingredients – Make sure butter and eggs are at room temperature for easier mixing and better texture.
• Sift dry ingredients – Sifting flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt will help incorporate air, leading to lighter cookies.
• Do not overmix – Mix just until combined when adding dry ingredients; overmixing can lead to tough cookies.
• Chill the dough – For thicker cookies, chill the dough for 30 minutes before baking to prevent spreading.
• Monitor baking time – Keep an eye on the baking time; slightly underbaking will yield chewier cookies.

Best Side Dishes for Ina Garten Double Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe

Pairing side dishes with these rich double chocolate chip cookies can enhance your dessert experience. Here are some great options:

1. Fresh Berries
   A mix of strawberries, raspberries, and blueberries adds a refreshing contrast to the sweet chocolate flavors.
2. Vanilla Ice Cream
   Classic choice – A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream pairs beautifully with warm cookies.
3. Fruit Salad
   A light fruit salad offers a nice balance of sweetness without overwhelming the palate.
4. Whipped Cream
   Light and airy whipped cream makes an excellent topping when served alongside warm cookies or ice cream sandwiches.
5. Chocolate Sauce Drizzle
   Enhance the chocolate experience by drizzling warm chocolate sauce over each cookie or ice cream sandwich.
6. Coffee or Tea
   A warm cup of coffee or herbal tea complements the rich flavors of the cookies perfectly while providing a cozy touch.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking the perfect Ina Garten Double Chocolate Chip Cookies requires attention to detail. Here are some common mistakes to avoid:

• Not using room temperature ingredients: Cold butter or eggs can lead to uneven mixing. Always allow your butter and eggs to reach room temperature before starting.
• Overmixing the dough: Mixing too much can develop gluten, resulting in tough cookies. Mix just until the ingredients are combined for a chewy texture.
• Skipping the chilling step: Chilling the dough helps prevent spreading during baking. If time allows, refrigerate your cookie dough for at least 30 minutes before baking.
• Using incorrect measurements: Baking is a science, and precise measurements are vital. Use a kitchen scale or proper measuring cups to ensure accuracy.
• Ignoring oven temperature calibration: Every oven is different. Use an oven thermometer to verify that your oven is at the correct temperature for perfect baking results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store cookies in an airtight container for up to one week in the refrigerator.
• Separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Freezing Ina Garten Double Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe

• Freeze baked cookies in an airtight container for up to three months.
• For optimal freshness, wrap each cookie individually in plastic wrap before placing them in the container.

Reheating Ina Garten Double Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F and warm cookies for about 5 minutes for a fresh-baked taste.
• Microwave: Heat cookies on a microwave-safe plate for about 10-15 seconds. Be cautious not to overheat, as they may become tough.
• Stovetop: Place cookies in a skillet over low heat for about 1-2 minutes, keeping an eye on them to avoid burning.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about the Ina Garten Double Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe:

How can I make these cookies vegan?

You can substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative and use flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water) instead of regular eggs.

Can I use dark chocolate instead of semisweet?

Yes! Dark chocolate chunks will enhance the richness of your cookies while still delivering that deep chocolate flavor.

What makes these cookies chewy?

The combination of brown sugar and proper mixing techniques contributes to their chewy texture. Avoid overbaking them as well!

How do I know when my cookies are done baking?

Cookies should look slightly underbaked when you take them out of the oven; they will continue cooking on the baking sheet once removed from the oven.

Can I add nuts or other mix-ins?

Absolutely! Feel free to add walnuts, pecans, or even dried fruits for added texture and flavor.

Final Thoughts

Ina Garten’s Double Chocolate Chip Cookies offer a rich and indulgent treat that is sure to please any chocolate lover. Their chewy texture combined with melty chocolate chunks makes them irresistible. Plus, you can easily customize these cookies by adding nuts or adjusting sweetness levels to suit your taste. Don’t hesitate—try this recipe today!