Get ready to transform your baking game with these mind-blowing Orange Chocolate Chunk Cookies that will make your taste buds dance with joy! Imagine biting into a perfectly soft, golden cookie where the bright, zesty orange meets rich, decadent chocolate chunks - it's like a flavor symphony that will have everyone begging for your recipe. Whether you're a seasoned baker or a kitchen newbie, these cookies are your ticket to becoming the dessert hero of your family and friends!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 12 mins
Total Time: 27 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 24 cookies
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon grated orange zest
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup chocolate chunks
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats, ensuring they are clean and dry.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar using an electric mixer. Beat on medium speed for 3-4 minutes until the mixture becomes light and fluffy.
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition. Incorporate the grated orange zest and mix until evenly distributed.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt to ensure even distribution of dry ingredients.
- Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix the dough.
- Fold in the chocolate chunks using a spatula, distributing them evenly throughout the cookie dough.
- Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, drop rounded portions of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart to allow for spreading.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the centers are set but still soft.
- Remove from the oven and let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Store cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. For best flavor and texture, enjoy within 2-3 days of baking.
Tips
- Temperature Matters: Ensure your butter is truly softened but not melted. Room temperature butter creates the perfect cookie texture.
- Don't Overmix: Mix your dough just until ingredients are combined. Overmixing can lead to tough, dense cookies.
- Zest Freshness: Use fresh orange zest for the most vibrant citrus flavor. Avoid using dried or pre-packaged zest.
- Chocolate Chunk Tip: Chop your own chocolate chunks for uneven, rustic pieces that create delightful chocolate pockets in each cookie.
- Cooling Technique: Let cookies rest on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack. This helps them set and prevents breaking.
- Storage Hack: Place a piece of bread in your cookie container to keep them soft and fresh for longer.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 157kcal
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 2g
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 41mg
