Fudge cookies, also known as “chocolate crinkle cookies,” are a chocolate lover’s dream. They have a rich, intense chocolate flavor that’s both decadent and satisfying. The best part? They’re surprisingly easy to make at home, even if you’re a baking novice. In this article, we’ll guide you step-by-step through the process, so you can impress your friends and family with these irresistible treats.
Imagine biting into a cookie with a crispy, crackled exterior and a soft, fudgy center. That’s the magic of a perfectly baked fudge cookie! The contrasting textures, combined with the rich chocolate flavor, create a truly unforgettable taste experience.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s what you’ll need to gather to make a batch of these amazing cookies:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup powdered sugar, for rolling
Optional ingredients:
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (for added crunch)
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips (because, why not?)
Essential Baking Tools
Before we begin, make sure you have these tools on hand:
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer (or a whisk and some muscle!)
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Baking sheets
- Parchment paper or silicone baking mats
Let’s Bake Some Fudge Cookies!
Step 1: Cream Together the Butter and Sugars
In a large bowl, beat the softened butter with both granulated and brown sugar until light and fluffy. This will take about 2-3 minutes with an electric mixer. You want the mixture to be pale and airy.
Step 2: Add the Eggs and Vanilla
Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, stir in the vanilla extract.
Step 3: Combine the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. This ensures that the leavening agents are evenly distributed, leading to perfectly textured cookies.
Step 4: Incorporate the Dry Ingredients into the Wet Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix! Overmixing can lead to tough cookies.
Step 5: Fold in Optional Mix-Ins
If you’re adding nuts or chocolate chips, gently fold them in now.
Step 6: Chill the Dough
This is a crucial step! Cover the cookie dough and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or even better, overnight. This allows the dough to firm up and the flavors to meld, resulting in chewier, more flavorful cookies.
Step 7: Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Sheets
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line your baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats to prevent sticking.
Step 8: Roll the Dough in Powdered Sugar
Roll tablespoonfuls of the chilled dough into balls. Then, roll each ball in powdered sugar until it’s generously coated. This step gives the cookies their signature crackled appearance.
Step 9: Bake to Perfection
Place the powdered sugar-coated cookie dough balls onto the prepared baking sheets, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are set and the tops are slightly cracked.
Step 10: Cool and Enjoy!
Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
