Ingredients
Method
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Preheating ensures even baking. No one likes a half-baked cookie!
Step 2: Prepare Baking Sheets
- Line a couple of baking sheets with parchment paper. This step makes your cleanup easier and helps prevent sticking.
Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients
- 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.
Step 4: Cream Butter and Sugars
- 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.
Step 5: Add Eggs and Vanilla
- 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.
Step 6: Blend Dry Ingredients
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the buttery mixture. Mix until just combined—don’t overmix! A few flour streaks are fine.
Step 7: Stir in Chocolate
- 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.
Step 8: Portion and Bake
- 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.
Step 9: Cool Down
- 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.
Notes
- 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.
