Orange Dark Chocolate Chunk Cookies Recipe

If you’re looking for a cookie that will brighten your day, look no further than this delightful Orange Dark Chocolate Chunk Cookies Recipe! The combination of zesty orange and rich dark chocolate creates a treat that’s both refreshing and indulgent. These cookies are perfect for any occasion—whether you’re hosting a family gathering, preparing for a cozy movie night, or simply need a sweet pick-me-up after a long day.

What I love most about these cookies is how they bring together the best of both worlds: the tangy brightness of orange zest complements the deep flavor of dark chocolate perfectly. Plus, they’re easy to whip up and even easier to enjoy!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With just a few simple steps, these cookies come together quickly, making them perfect for busy weeknights.
• Family-Friendly: Everyone loves cookies! These Orange Dark Chocolate Chunk Cookies will surely be a hit with kids and adults alike.
• Make-Ahead Option: You can chill the dough overnight, so they’re ready to bake whenever you want.
• Delicious Flavor: The unique blend of orange and dark chocolate makes these cookies stand out from the crowd.
• Great for Sharing: Bake up a big batch and share them with friends or neighbors. They’ll appreciate the thoughtful gesture!

Ingredients You’ll Need

These are simple, wholesome ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry. Each one plays an essential role in creating these delicious cookies.

For the Cookies

• 2 2/3 cup all purpose flour
• 1 1/4 tsp baking soda
• 1 tsp cornstarch
• 1 tsp kosher sea salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 1/4 cup brown sugar (packed)
• 1 tbsp orange zest
• 2 tsp vanilla extract
• 2 eggs
• 6 oz Orange Dark Chocolate bar (chopped, (Lindt, Theo, Chocolove etc.))
• sea salt (for garnish)

Variations

This recipe is super flexible! Feel free to get creative and make it your own with these fun variations:

• Add Nuts: Toss in some chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for an added crunch.
• Try Different Chocolates: Swap out the dark chocolate for white chocolate or milk chocolate if that’s more your style.
• Boost the Citrus: Add a splash of orange juice along with the zest for an even fruitier flavor!
• Make Them Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour for gluten-sensitive friends.

How to Make Orange Dark Chocolate Chunk Cookies Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Butter

Start by placing your butter in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat it in short bursts—around 30-45 seconds—until it’s almost melted but still has some soft pieces left. This method ensures we don’t overheat it, keeping the texture just right for our cookies.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together your flour, baking soda, cornstarch, and kosher sea salt. Mixing these dry ingredients first helps evenly distribute the leavening agents throughout your dough.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugars

In another bowl (or using a stand mixer), beat together the softened butter and both sugars on medium speed for about one minute. Then add in the orange zest and vanilla extract, mixing for another minute. This step creates a nice fluffy base that will help give your cookies their wonderful texture.

Step 4: Add Eggs and Combine

Now it’s time to add the eggs! Beat them in one at a time, mixing well between each addition. Once incorporated, reduce your mixer speed to low and gradually add in those dry ingredients until just combined. Be careful not to overmix—this will keep your cookies tender.

Step 5: Fold in Chocolate

Gently fold in your chopped Orange Dark Chocolate using a spatula. Don’t forget about those tasty shavings left on your cutting board; they deserve to go into the dough too! Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate it for at least two hours or overnight if you can wait!

Step 6: Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Sheets

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) while you prepare your baking sheets lined with parchment paper or silicone mats. This step ensures even baking!

Step 7: Scoop Dough onto Sheets

Using a standard-size cookie scoop (about 1.5 tablespoons), form balls of cookie dough and place them on your prepared baking sheets, leaving about two inches between each ball. If you like that extra pop of flavor, sprinkle some sea salt on top before baking!

Step 8: Bake Your Cookies

Pop those trays into the oven! Bake for about 11-13 minutes or until golden brown around the edges. Remember to rotate the sheets halfway through cooking for even browning. Once done, let them cool on the pan for about 3-4 minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.

Enjoy every bite of these delightful Orange Dark Chocolate Chunk Cookies—they’re sure to become a favorite in no time!

Pro Tips for Making Orange Dark Chocolate Chunk Cookies Recipe

Baking these cookies can be a delightful experience, and with a few helpful tips, you’ll ensure they turn out perfectly every time!

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Let your butter and eggs sit out for about 30 minutes before you start. This helps them mix more smoothly into the dough, resulting in a softer cookie.
• Don’t Skip the Chilling: Chilling the dough for at least 2 hours or overnight allows the flavors to meld together and prevents the cookies from spreading too much while baking. It’s worth the wait!
• Rotate Your Baking Sheets: If you’re baking multiple sheets at once, rotate them halfway through. This ensures even baking and that all your cookies come out golden brown.
• Experiment with Chocolate Types: While dark chocolate is delicious, feel free to mix in some milk chocolate or even white chocolate chunks for a fun twist. The combination of flavors can add an exciting depth to your cookies!
• Store Properly: To keep your cookies fresh longer, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. You can also freeze them for future cravings—just make sure to let them cool completely first!

How to Serve Orange Dark Chocolate Chunk Cookies Recipe

These Orange Dark Chocolate Chunk Cookies not only taste amazing but also look fantastic on any serving platter. Here are some creative ways to present them!

Garnishes

• Zest of Orange: A sprinkle of fresh orange zest on top of each cookie adds a vibrant color and enhances the citrus notes.
• Chocolate Drizzle: Melt some additional dark chocolate and drizzle it over the cooled cookies for a beautiful finish that looks professional and tastes divine.

Side Dishes

• Classic Milk: Pairing these cookies with a glass of cold milk is always a hit! The creaminess complements the rich chocolate wonderfully.
• Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad with berries, kiwi, and citrus fruits provides a light contrast to the richness of the cookies.
• Coffee or Tea: Serve with freshly brewed coffee or herbal tea to create a cozy afternoon snack. The warmth of the beverages pairs beautifully with the cookies’ sweetness.
• Vanilla Ice Cream: For an indulgent treat, serve these cookies alongside scoops of vanilla ice cream. The creaminess balances out the texture of the cookie while enhancing its flavors.

Now that you have all these tips and serving suggestions, get ready to enjoy your delicious batch of Orange Dark Chocolate Chunk Cookies! Happy baking!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Orange Dark Chocolate Chunk Cookies are perfect for meal prep, and they can be made ahead of time to enjoy throughout the week or for special occasions. Here’s how to ensure they stay fresh and delicious!

Storing Leftovers

• Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
• If you want to keep them longer, consider refrigerating them; this will help maintain their flavor and texture.
• For optimal freshness, place a piece of bread in the container. It helps to absorb moisture and keeps the cookies soft.

Freezing

• Allow the baked cookies to cool completely before freezing.
• Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. This prevents them from sticking together.
• Transfer the frozen cookies to a resealable freezer bag or an airtight container, separating layers with parchment paper.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• To enjoy your cookies warm, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place the cookies on a baking sheet and heat for about 5-7 minutes until warmed through.
• Alternatively, you can microwave a single cookie for about 10-15 seconds for a quick treat!

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about this delightful recipe.

How do I make Orange Dark Chocolate Chunk Cookies?

To prepare these cookies, you’ll need basic ingredients like flour, baking soda, butter, sugars, eggs, orange zest, and dark chocolate. Follow the detailed instructions provided above for best results!

What makes this Orange Dark Chocolate Chunk Cookies Recipe special?

This recipe combines the bright flavor of orange with rich dark chocolate chunks, creating a unique taste experience that stands out from traditional chocolate chip cookies.

Can I substitute other types of chocolate in this recipe?

Absolutely! If you prefer milk or white chocolate instead of dark chocolate, feel free to swap it out. Just remember that it will change the overall flavor profile of your cookies.

How long do these cookies last after baking?

When stored properly in an airtight container at room temperature, these cookies will stay fresh for about 5 days. You can also freeze them for longer storage!

Can I add nuts or dried fruit to my cookies?

Definitely! Feel free to mix in your favorite nuts or dried fruits along with the chocolate chunks for added texture and flavor.

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re as excited as I am to whip up these Orange Dark Chocolate Chunk Cookies! They bring together the zesty brightness of orange and the deep richness of dark chocolate in every bite. Whether you’re sharing them with friends or enjoying them solo with a cup of tea, they’re sure to brighten your day. Happy baking!