Name: Chocolate Butter Cookies Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 9 min
Total time: 8 h 19 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: ¾ cup granulated sugar; ¾ cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 large egg, room temperature; ½ teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 ⅔ cups all-purpose flour; ⅓ cup unsweetened cocoa powder (Hershey’s Special Dark recommended); ¼ teaspoon salt

These Chocolate Butter Cookies are a chocolate lover’s dream! They’re rich, buttery, and melt-in-your-mouth delicious, with a perfect balance of sweetness and chocolate flavor. This recipe is easy to follow and yields a batch of beautiful cookies that are perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth or sharing with friends and family.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Rich Chocolate Flavor: These cookies are packed with chocolate flavor, thanks to the addition of unsweetened cocoa powder.
Buttery and Tender: The high butter content creates a wonderfully tender and melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, these cookies are a breeze to bake.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to bake a batch of these delicious cookies:

Sugar: Adds sweetness.
Butter: Softened to room temperature for easy creaming.
Egg: Room temperature, binds the ingredients together.
Vanilla extract: Adds a touch of warmth and sweetness.
All-purpose flour: Provides structure and texture.
Unsweetened cocoa powder: Use extra dark cocoa powder for a richer chocolate flavor.
Salt: Enhances the overall flavor.

Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

How to Make Chocolate Butter Cookies

Step 1: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar using a mixer on medium speed until light and fluffy.

Step 2: Add Egg and Vanilla

Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, and salt.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.¹

Step 5: Chill and Shape

Divide the dough into thirds, wrap each portion in plastic wrap, and refrigerate overnight. This allows the flavors to meld and makes the dough easier to handle.

Step 6: Bake

Preheat the oven to 375°F. Shape the chilled dough into 1-inch balls and place them 1 inch apart on ungreased baking sheets lined with parchment paper. Bake for 7-9 minutes, or until the cookies are set. Cool completely on wire racks.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

Use room temperature ingredients: Room temperature butter and eggs will cream together more easily, resulting in a lighter and fluffier cookie.
Don’t overmix the dough: Overmixing can lead to tough cookies. Mix until just combined.
Chill the dough: Chilling the dough overnight allows the flavors to meld and makes it easier to handle.

How to Serve Chocolate Butter Cookies

Afternoon Treat: These cookies are perfect for an afternoon snack with a cup of tea or coffee.
Dessert: Serve them as a simple yet elegant dessert after a meal.
Gift Idea: Package them up in a cute tin or box for a thoughtful homemade gift.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for 3-4 days. They are best enjoyed fresh, but will still be delicious for a few days.

Freezing

You can freeze baked cookies in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to one month. You can also freeze the unbaked dough balls for up to 3 months. Bake from frozen, adding a few minutes to the baking time.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of cocoa powder?
Yes, you can use regular unsweetened cocoa powder, but the cookies will have a slightly less intense chocolate flavor.

Can I add other ingredients to these cookies?
Absolutely! Feel free to add chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or other mix-ins to the dough.

Can I make these cookies vegan?
Yes, you can use vegan butter and egg substitutes.

How can I make these cookies crispier?
Bake them for a few minutes longer, or use a higher oven temperature.

There you have it! A rich and delicious recipe for Chocolate Butter Cookies that’s easy to make and perfect for satisfying your chocolate cravings. Enjoy!