Imagine the aroma of freshly baked salted chocolate chip cookies wafting through your kitchen. It’s one of those smells that makes you want to smile and perhaps even break out into song! These cookies are delightful on their own, but pairing them with a few extras can elevate the experience to a new level. Here are several delicious suggestions to frame your cookie adventure:
1. Glass of Milk - Classic, right? There's nothing quite like the comfort of a cold glass of milk with warm cookies.
2. Ice Cream - Create a decadent dessert sandwich by adding a scoop of vanilla or salted caramel ice cream between two cookies. You won’t regret it.
3. Coffee or Espresso - Those rich flavors mingle beautifully. Plus, coffee balances the sweetness.
4. Fruit Skewers - Fresh fruit, especially berries, offer a juicy contrast to the dense, rich cookie texture.
Now that we have established some appealing pairings, let’s dive into the realm of salted chocolate chip cookies!
Simply put, a salted chocolate chip cookie recipe mixes the classic chewy cookie texture with the unexpected twist of salt. Typically, chocolate chip cookies feature butter, sugar, flour, and of course, chocolate chips. However, by adding a sprinkle of sea salt, you enhance the cookie’s flavor profile in a delightful way.
It may seem like a small addition, but trust me; the contrast adds depth beyond the typical sweetness. And that’s the beauty of baking—you can mix, match, and create something magical.
1. Perfect Flour-to-Butter Ratio
The balance between flour and butter creates a cookie that is neither too dry nor overly greasy. This recipe calls for 2¾ cups of all-purpose flour and 1 cup of softened unsalted butter. This combination gives the cookie a lovely structure while maintaining chewiness.
2. Quality Chocolate
Using dark chocolate (around 70–72% cocoa) makes a significant difference in both flavor and texture. The richness of dark chocolate complements the sweetness of the cookie without overpowering it. Plus, those wonderful little chocolate melty bits are heavenly.
3. Elevated Flavors with Sea Salt and Cinnamon
The addition of flaked sea salt and a hint of ground cinnamon impacts flavor profoundly. The salt rounds out the sweetness, while cinnamon lends warmth and depth. It’s what I call a flavor enhancer!
4. Room Temperature Ingredients
Using eggs and butter at room temperature ensures a smooth batter. This step is crucial; it allows the ingredients to blend better and produce a cookie that’s soft and chewy on the inside.
To embark on this cookie adventure, gather the following ingredients:
2¾ cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
½ teaspoon fine sea salt
½ cup granulated sugar
1½ cups packed light brown sugar
1 cup unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
2 large eggs, at room temperature
2 teaspoons pure vanilla essence
6 ounces dark chocolate (around 70–72%), roughly chopped
2 tablespoons flaked sea salt for topping
½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
½ cup toasted pecans or walnuts, chopped
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Preheating ensures even baking. No one likes a half-baked cookie!
Line a couple of baking sheets with parchment paper. This step makes your cleanup easier and helps prevent sticking.
In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, fine sea salt, and ground cinnamon. Set this aside. It’s vital to mix dry ingredients separately to ensure even distribution.
In a large bowl, combine the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar. Beat on medium speed until the mixture is light and fluffy. This usually takes about 2-3 minutes.
Next, add the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla essence. Mix until combined. You’re aiming for a smooth, creamy batter here.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the buttery mixture. Mix until just combined—don’t overmix! A few flour streaks are fine.
Fold in the chopped dark chocolate and optional chopped pecans or walnuts. The chocolate should distribute evenly, making sure you get melty pieces in every cookie.
Using a cookie scoop or your hands, scoop dough onto the prepared baking sheets, leaving space between each cookie. Sprinkle a little flaked sea salt on top of each cookie before baking. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown.
Once out of the oven, let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.
Don’t Skip the Salt!
The salt is essential. It enhances the sweetness and compliments the chocolate perfectly.
Chill the Dough (Optional)
If you have time, chill the cookie dough for about 30 minutes. This step can help achieve a thicker, chewier cookie.
Adjust Baking Time
Ovens vary. Keep an eye on your cookies while they bake. You want a slight golden edge but a soft center.
Use Quality Butter
The flavor of your cookies is only as good as your ingredients. Opt for high-quality unsalted butter.
Store Properly
Allow cookies to cool completely before storing. Place them in an airtight container to retain moisture.
Nutritional values can vary based on specific ingredient brands and amounts used. Here's an approximate breakdown per cookie (for a batch of 24):
Calories: 200
Total Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 30mg
Sodium: 115mg
Total Carbohydrates: 27g
Dietary Fiber: 1g
Sugars: 15g
Protein: 2g
Once your cookies cool completely, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They should stay fresh for about a week. However, if you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them. Freeze individual cookies by wrapping them in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil. When you’re ready for cookies, let them thaw on the counter or gently warm in the oven.
1. Chocolate Milkshake
The cold, creamy texture of a milkshake can provide a delightful contrast to the warm cookies. Blend chocolate ice cream with milk for a dreamy shake.
2. Fruit Salad
Mix up a colorful bowl of fresh fruits like strawberries, mangoes, and kiwi. The vibrant fruit provides a fresh palate cleanse.
3. Cheese Platter
Pair these cookies with a selection of cheeses—think sharp cheddar or creamy brie. The flavors may sound unconventional, but they work surprisingly well!
4. Nut Butters
Spread some almond or peanut butter on a slice of toast as an accompaniment. The nutty flavor pairs excellently with chocolate cookies.
All-Purpose Flour
If you're out of regular flour, you can often substitute with whole wheat flour, though it may change the texture slightly.
Unsalted Butter
In a pinch, use salted butter and reduce or omit the added sea salt. Just be aware that the overall saltiness will vary.
Dark Chocolate
You can use semi-sweet chocolate if that’s your preference. It offers a sweeter profile, so adjust the sugar slightly if needed.
Eggs
If eggs are not available, try substituting with flaxseed meal for an egg replacement. Mix 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed with 2.5 tablespoons of water and let it sit for a few minutes to set.
Baking salted chocolate chip cookies is more than just a recipe; it’s a way to create lasting memories. Whether you’re enjoying them alone, sharing with family, or bringing them to a gathering, their delightful contrast of sweet and salty is bound to win hearts. Remember, each cookie carries a sprinkle of love and a dash of adventure. Experience the joy that comes from your oven—and don’t forget to savor each bite! Happy baking!
There’s something magical about cookies. When you bake them, their warmth, sweetness, and just a hint of saltiness can momentarily transport you back to childhood. Salted chocolate chip cookies are particularly enticing. They combine soft, chewy cookie goodness with the deep richness of dark chocolate. What sets this recipe apart is the sprinkle of flaky sea salt that crowns each cookie. You're left with an experience that dances between sweet and salty.
As someone who has spent years perfecting various recipes in my own kitchen, I can assure you that these cookies hit the mark—every time. Through trial and error, I’ve learned the nuances of baking, which I’m eager to share with you. So, roll up your sleeves, and let’s embark on this sweet endeavor together!
Servings 24
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
I'm Rachel Garland, a registered dietitian and passionate home cook from Fairfield, California. My goal is to help busy people create quick, flavorful, and nutritious meals that fit into their hectic lives. Through my blog, I share simple, delicious recipes that make healthy eating easy and enjoyable!