Ina Garten Double Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe

A classic treat that every chocolate lover dreams of, the Ina Garten Double Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe brings together rich cocoa and semisweet chocolate chunks for a deeply satisfying dessert. Perfect for any occasion, these cookies are sure to impress at gatherings or serve as a sweet indulgence after dinner. With their chewy texture and intense flavor, they stand out among other cookie recipes.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Irresistible Flavor: These cookies are packed with chocolate goodness, making them a dream for anyone who loves chocolate.
• Easy to Make: The recipe is straightforward, ensuring even novice bakers can achieve delicious results.
• Perfectly Chewy: The combination of ingredients creates a chewy texture that balances perfectly with the rich chocolate.
• Versatile Treat: Great for parties, picnics, or just a cozy night in—these cookies fit any occasion perfectly.
• Batch-Friendly: With 40 servings, this recipe is ideal for sharing or freezing for later enjoyment.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the baking process, it’s essential to gather the right tools. Having everything ready will make your experience smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer or hand mixer: These tools save time and effort when creaming butter and sugars, ensuring a light texture.
• Mixing bowls: Having various sizes allows you to separate wet and dry ingredients easily.
• Baking sheets: A good quality baking sheet ensures even cooking and prevents sticking when lined with parchment paper.

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 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 Dry Ingredients

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

For the Chocolate Chunk Filling

• 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 baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugars

In a mixing bowl, 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 two eggs, one at a time. Ensure each egg is fully mixed before adding the next.

Step 4: Mix in Cocoa Powder

Gradually mix in the unsweetened cocoa powder, blending until well combined.

Step 5: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, sift or whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and kosher salt.

Step 6: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

On low speed, add the dry ingredients to your wet mixture until just combined. Avoid overmixing to maintain a tender cookie texture.

Step 7: Fold in Chocolate Chunks

Gently fold in the semisweet chocolate chunks, distributing them evenly throughout the dough.

Step 8: Bake Your Cookies

Scoop out portions of dough onto your prepared baking sheets. Flatten them slightly before placing them in the oven. Bake for exactly 15 minutes or until edges look set.

Step 9: Cool Before Serving

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

How to Serve Ina Garten Double Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe

These indulgent cookies are perfect for various occasions and can be enjoyed in many delightful ways. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply treating yourself, here are some serving suggestions that enhance the experience.

Pair with Milk

• A classic combination! Serve warm cookies alongside a glass of cold milk for a comforting treat.

Ice Cream Sandwiches

• Take it up a notch by sandwiching your favorite ice cream between two cookies. The contrast of warm and cold is irresistible.

Drizzle with Chocolate Sauce

• Add an extra layer of chocolatey goodness by drizzling melted chocolate sauce over the cookies before serving.

Serve with Fresh Berries

• Fresh berries like strawberries or raspberries provide a refreshing contrast to the rich chocolate flavor, making a lovely presentation.

Create a Cookie Platter

• Arrange these cookies on a platter with other baked goods for a delightful dessert table at parties or gatherings.

Warm Up Before Serving

• Gently warm the cookies in the oven for a few minutes for that fresh-out-of-the-oven taste, enhancing their chewy texture.

How to Perfect Ina Garten Double Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe

To ensure your cookies turn out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips. They will guide you through achieving that ideal texture and flavor.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Bring your butter and eggs to room temperature for better mixing, resulting in a smoother dough.

• Don’t Overmix the Dough: Mix until just combined to keep the cookies chewy. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies.

• Chill the Dough: Allowing dough to chill for 30 minutes before baking helps maintain shape and enhances flavor.

• Measure Flour Correctly: Spoon flour into your measuring cup rather than scooping directly from the bag to avoid dense cookies.

• Use Quality Cocoa Powder: Opt for high-quality cocoa powder for richer chocolate flavor and deeper color in your cookies.

• Check Oven Temperature: Use an oven thermometer to ensure accurate baking temperatures; this helps achieve consistent results.

Best Side Dishes for Ina Garten Double Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe

Serving side dishes alongside these decadent cookies can create a rounded dessert experience. Here are some perfect pairings:

1. Fruit Salad
   A light fruit salad adds freshness and balances the richness of the cookies, enhancing your dessert spread.

2. Chocolate Mousse
   A silky chocolate mousse complements the cookie’s texture while adding an elegant touch to your dessert table.

3. Whipped Cream
   Lightly sweetened whipped cream is perfect for topping off individual servings, creating a creamy contrast to the chewy cookie.

4. Coffee or Espresso
   A cup of coffee or espresso pairs wonderfully with chocolate, bringing out its flavors while providing a delightful energy boost.

5. Cheese Platter
   A selection of cheeses can add savory notes that balance the sweetness of the cookies, making each bite interesting.

6. Yogurt Parfait
   Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a refreshing side that offers texture and tartness against the rich cookie flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making the Ina Garten Double Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Using cold ingredients: Always ensure your butter and eggs are at room temperature. This helps create a smooth batter and better texture.
• Overmixing the dough: Stir just until combined to avoid tough cookies. Overmixing can lead to dense cookies rather than chewy ones.
• Not measuring flour correctly: Use the spoon-and-level method for accurate flour measurement. Too much flour can result in dry cookies.
• Skipping the cooling time: Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet before transferring them. This helps them set properly and prevents breakage.
• Ignoring oven temperature accuracy: Always preheat your oven and consider using an oven thermometer. An incorrect temperature can affect baking time and texture.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store cookies in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
• For best freshness, separate layers with parchment paper.

Freezing Ina Garten Double Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe

• Freeze baked cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet for 1-2 hours, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag.
• Cookies can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Ina Garten Double Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F, place cookies on a baking sheet, and heat for about 5 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat individual cookies for about 10-15 seconds for a warm treat.
• Stovetop: Place cookies in a skillet over low heat for a few minutes until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Ina Garten Double Chocolate Chip Cookies unique?

These cookies stand out due to their rich cocoa base combined with semisweet chocolate chunks, ensuring every bite is deeply chocolatey and satisfying.

Can I use different types of chocolate?

Yes! Feel free to experiment with milk chocolate or dark chocolate chunks if you prefer varying sweetness levels in your cookies.

How do I prevent my cookies from spreading too much?

Chilling the dough for at least 30 minutes before baking can help control spread during baking, resulting in thicker cookies.

How long do these cookies last?

When stored properly in an airtight container, they can last up to one week at room temperature or three months in the freezer.

Final Thoughts

The Ina Garten Double Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe delivers rich flavor and delightful chewiness that you will love. These cookies are perfect for any occasion and can easily be customized with nuts or different types of chocolate. Try this recipe today and enjoy a classic treat that never goes out of style!