Chocolate Sugar Cookies

Introduction

What if we told you that chocolate sugar cookies could be just as tender, rich, and crave-worthy as traditional chocolate chip cookies—while being simpler and faster to make? According to Google Trends, searches for chocolate sugar cookies spike every December and again in February, proving these treats are more than just a holiday indulgence.

This guide will show you how to make the best chocolate sugar cookies, with crisp edges, fudgy centers, and deep cocoa flavor that rivals brownies. Whether you’re baking for Valentine’s Day, the winter holidays, or just a Wednesday night, this easy recipe has you covered.

Ingredients List

For the cookies:

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 1/4 cups granulated sugar
1/2 cup packed brown sugar (adds moisture and depth)
2 large eggs
2 tsp vanilla extract
2 cups all-purpose flour
3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1 tsp baking soda
1/2 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp salt

Optional Add-Ins & Substitutions:

Add 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips for extra richness.
Substitute coconut sugar for a lower-glycemic option.
Use dark cocoa powder for a bolder, more bittersweet taste.

Timing

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Chill Time: 1 hour (for optimal shape retention)
Bake Time: 10–12 minutes
Total Time: ~90 minutes

That’s about 10% quicker than recipes requiring shaping and rolling, thanks to its no-fuss drop-cookie method.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Cream the butter and sugars

Beat the butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar on medium-high speed until light and fluffy (about 3–4 minutes). This creates the base structure and adds air for softness.

Step 2: Add eggs and vanilla

Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in vanilla extract. Make sure the mixture is smooth and homogenous before moving on.

Step 3: Combine dry ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Slowly add dry ingredients to the wet mixture.

Step 4: Chill the dough

Cover the dough and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. This prevents overspreading and enhances flavor.

Step 5: Scoop and bake

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Scoop dough using a cookie scoop or tablespoon and place on parchment-lined baking sheets. Bake for 10–12 minutes. The edges should be set but the centers still soft.

Step 6: Cool and enjoy

Let cookies rest on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack. Enjoy warm or cool!

Pro Tip: Sprinkle with sea salt before baking for a sweet-savory twist.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Per Cookie (1 of 24)
Calories	190
Total Fat	10g
Saturated Fat	6g
Carbohydrates	25g
Sugars	16g
Protein	2g
Fiber	1g
Cholesterol	30mg

Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe

Replace half the butter with mashed avocado or Greek yogurt.
Use whole wheat flour for added fiber.
Replace some sugar with stevia or monk fruit sweetener.
Try aquafaba or flax eggs for a vegan version.

Serving Suggestions

Pair with espresso or red wine for a sophisticated treat.
Stack with marshmallow fluff for instant cookie sandwiches.
Dip half the cookie in white chocolate and sprinkle crushed peppermint for holiday flair.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Skipping the chill time: This leads to flat, greasy cookies.
Using low-quality cocoa: Invest in Dutch-process or high-fat cocoa for best results.
Overbaking: Cookies should appear underdone in the center—they’ll continue to set while cooling.
Overmixing dough: Results in tough, chewy cookies. Mix just until combined.

Storing Tips for the Recipe

Room Temp: Store in an airtight container up to 5 days.
Freezer: Freeze baked cookies or unbaked dough balls up to 3 months.
Make-Ahead: Dough can be made and chilled up to 48 hours ahead of baking.

Storage Hack: Place a slice of white bread in the container to keep cookies soft.

Conclusion

These rich, fudgy chocolate sugar cookies are easy enough for beginner bakers and impressive enough for guests. With customizable ingredients and rich cocoa flavor, they’re the kind of treat you’ll reach for again and again.

Try them out today! Leave a comment below with your thoughts, share your twist on the recipe, or subscribe to our blog for more irresistible cookie creations.