These Dark Chocolate Sugar Cookies combine the richness of dark chocolate with the crisp and chewy texture of a classic sugar cookie. The result is a sweet, chocolatey treat that’s perfect for any occasion. The deep cocoa flavor is balanced by a subtle sweetness, making them a delicious snack on their own or as a part of your dessert spread.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Rich Dark Chocolate Flavor: The intense cocoa taste gives each bite a satisfying, deep chocolate richness.
Crisp and Chewy Texture: The exterior of the cookies is crisp, while the inside remains wonderfully chewy.
Quick and Easy: With simple ingredients and minimal prep time, these cookies are perfect for a last-minute treat.
Versatile: Feel free to customize the cookies by adding chocolate chips, colorful sprinkles, or even frosting.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a holiday party, a bake sale, or a cozy afternoon snack, these cookies are sure to be a hit.

Ingredients

All-purpose flour: The base for the dough, providing structure and texture.
Unsweetened cocoa powder: Adds a deep chocolate flavor to the cookies.
Baking soda: Helps the cookies rise and spread while baking.
Salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the chocolate flavor.
Butter (softened): Provides richness and a tender texture.
Granulated sugar: Adds sweetness to the dough.
Brown sugar: Contributes moisture and a slight caramel flavor.
Egg: Binds the ingredients together and helps with structure.
Vanilla extract: Adds a subtle aromatic sweetness.
Buttermilk (or regular milk): Helps soften the dough and adds moisture.
Granulated sugar (for coating): Rolls the cookie dough balls in sugar for a sweet, crunchy exterior.

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven and line baking sheets with parchment paper.

Step 2: In a bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, unsweetened cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt.

Step 3: In a separate bowl, cream together softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until the mixture becomes light and fluffy.

Step 4: Add an egg and vanilla extract to the butter mixture and mix until smooth.

Step 5: Gradually incorporate the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring just until everything is combined. Add a splash of buttermilk or regular milk and mix until the dough is smooth and slightly soft.

Step 6: Roll the dough into small balls and coat each one in granulated sugar. Place the balls on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them apart to allow for spreading during baking.

Step 7: Bake the cookies for about 10–12 minutes, or until the tops are slightly cracked and set.

Step 8: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Size: 1 cookie

Calories: ~150
Total Fat: 7g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 20mg
Sodium: 80mg
Total Carbohydrates: 22g
Dietary Fiber: 2g
Sugars: 16g
Protein: 2g

FAQ

Can I use a different type of cocoa powder?
Yes, either Dutch-process or natural cocoa powder will work, though it may slightly affect the taste.
Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Definitely! Just substitute regular flour with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend.
Can I freeze the dough?
Yes, you can freeze the dough balls on a baking sheet and then transfer them to a freezer bag. When ready to bake, just bake them straight from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
How can I make these cookies softer?
Underbake them slightly for a chewy center and soft texture.
Can I add chocolate chips?
Of course! Chocolate chips will make these cookies even more indulgent.
How do I store leftover cookies?
Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week, or freeze them for up to 3 months.
Can I add frosting?
Absolutely! A drizzle of dark chocolate ganache or vanilla frosting would complement these cookies wonderfully.

Enjoy your rich, dark chocolate sugar cookies as a treat for any occasion!

Dark Chocolate Sugar Cookies

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These Dark Chocolate Sugar Cookies are rich, chocolatey, and perfectly sweetened with a sugar coating. With their deep chocolate flavor and slightly cracked tops, they’re the ultimate treat for any chocolate lover!

Author: Sarah
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10-12 minutes
Total Time: 25-27 minutes
Yield: 20–24 cookies 1x
Category: Dessert
Method: baking
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegetarian

Instructions

Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
Prepare the Dry Ingredients:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
Cream Butter and Sugar:
- In a large bowl, cream the butter and 3/4 cup of granulated sugar together until light and fluffy. You can use a hand mixer or stand mixer on medium speed.
Add the Wet Ingredients:
- Add the egg and vanilla extract to the butter-sugar mixture and mix until well combined.
Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing just until the dough comes together. The dough will be soft but should hold its shape.
Form the Dough Balls:
- Roll the dough into 1-inch balls. Roll each ball in the extra 1/4 cup of granulated sugar to coat evenly.
Bake the Cookies:
- Place the sugar-coated dough balls onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are set and the tops look slightly cracked. The cookies will firm up as they cool.
Cool the Cookies:
- Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Enjoy:
- Enjoy your rich, chocolatey sugar cookies! These are perfect for any chocolate lover.

Notes

For an extra touch, you can sprinkle some sea salt on top of the cookies before baking for a salty-sweet contrast.
These cookies are great for gifting or sharing at parties.