Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chunk Cookie is a fan favorite that appears periodically, distinguishing itself with chunks of semi-sweet chocolate instead of milk chocolate chips. Therefore, this flavor provides a less sweet, more intense chocolate profile that pairs beautifully with a sprinkle of sea salt. Additionally, the cookies are known for their thick, chewy texture, which comes from precise ingredient ratios and baking methods. Furthermore, recreating this at home saves money and allows customization, making the Crumbl Cookies Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chunk Cookies copycat recipe a must-try for enthusiasts.
Ingredients for the Crumbl Cookies Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chunk Cookies Copycat Recipe
Selecting the right ingredients is crucial for authenticity. Moreover, using high-quality items ensures the cookies achieve that signature chewiness and flavor. Therefore, here’s a detailed list, complete with measurements and notes on why each component matters. Additionally, we’ve included a table for easy reference, highlighting substitutions where possible.
| Ingredient | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Unsalted butter | 8 tablespoons (4 ounces) | Divided; half browned for nutty flavor, half softened. Use European-style for richer taste. |
| Water | 1 tablespoon | Added to browned butter to replace evaporated moisture. |
| Brown sugar | 1/2 cup (3.5 ounces) | Provides chewiness and caramel notes; light or dark works, but dark intensifies flavor. |
| Granulated sugar | 1/3 cup (2.3 ounces) | Adds crisp edges; balance with brown sugar for perfect texture. |
| Egg | 1 large | Room temperature for better emulsion; binds ingredients smoothly. |
| Vanilla extract | 3/4 teaspoon | Enhances overall flavor; pure extract is best. |
| All-purpose flour | 1 1/2 cups (7.5 ounces) | Base structure; measure by weight to avoid dryness. |
| Cornstarch | 1 tablespoon | Keeps cookies soft and thick by absorbing moisture. |
| Baking powder | 1/2 teaspoon | Helps with rise without spreading too much. |
| Baking soda | 1/4 teaspoon | Aids in browning and tenderness. |
| Salt | 1/2 teaspoon | Balances sweetness; use kosher for even distribution. |
| Semi-sweet chocolate chunks | 2 cups (about 10 ounces) | Key for the “chunky” texture; brands like Ghirardelli or chopped bars work well. |
| Flaky sea salt | For sprinkling | Maldon or similar; adds gourmet touch post-baking. |
This list yields about 6 large cookies, mimicking Crumbl’s generous portions. However, if scaling up, maintain ratios carefully. Furthermore, for variations, some recipes suggest using milk chocolate for a sweeter twist, but stick to semi-sweet for true copycat accuracy. Additionally, ensure all ingredients are fresh, as stale baking powder can lead to flat cookies.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Baking
Preparing this Crumbl Cookies Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chunk Cookies copycat recipe involves straightforward steps, but precision is key. Therefore, follow along closely, and you’ll achieve bakery-quality results. Moreover, prep time is about 15 minutes, with baking around 20 minutes and chilling 40 minutes total.
Preparing the Butter and Wet Ingredients
Start by preheating your oven to 325°F and lining two large baking sheets with parchment paper. This prevents sticking and promotes even baking. Next, cut the butter in half. Brown one half in a small saucepan over medium heat, stirring as it bubbles and toasts the milk solids. Once brown bits form, remove from heat, stir briefly, and pour into a bowl with the water. Let it cool for 10 minutes. Meanwhile, soften the other half in the microwave using short bursts until squishy but not melted.
Cream the softened butter with both sugars using a fork until smooth. Then, incorporate the cooled browned butter. This step infuses a toasty flavor that’s signature to many copycat versions. Add the egg and vanilla, stirring until the mixture is creamy and well combined. However, avoid overmixing to prevent tough cookies.
Mixing the Dry Ingredients and Dough
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add this to the wet mixture, stirring gently with a spoon or spatula until just combined. Overmixing activates gluten, leading to chewy but tough results. Fold in most of the chocolate chunks, reserving about 1/3 cup for topping. The dough should be thick yet pliable.
Chill the dough for 30 minutes in the refrigerator. This firms it up, reducing spread during baking for thicker cookies. After chilling, divide into 6 equal portions, each about 4.3 ounces or a generous 1/3 cup. Roll into balls, then flatten slightly into 1-inch high disks. Place them 4 inches apart on the sheets, and press reserved chunks on top for visual appeal.
Baking and Finishing Touches
Bake for 16-20 minutes until edges are golden and centers are gooey but not raw. Check with a thermometer for 175-180°F in the middle if unsure. Remove from the oven and immediately sprinkle with flaky sea salt. Let cool on the sheets for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack. This carryover cooking sets the centers perfectly.
Tips for Achieving Perfect Copycat Cookies
To elevate your baking, consider these expert tips compiled from various sources. First, always weigh ingredients for accuracy, as scooping flour can vary by up to 20%. Moreover, if skipping browned butter, melt half instead and proceed, but you’ll miss some depth. Additionally, for high-altitude baking, increase flour by 1-2 tablespoons and reduce sugar slightly to prevent spreading.
- Use room-temperature eggs for better incorporation.
- Don’t overbake; underdone centers firm up as they cool.
- If cookies spread too much, chill longer or add more cornstarch.
- Test one cookie first to adjust oven time.
- For extra chew, use more brown sugar in ratios.
However, if your kitchen is warm, chill between batches. Furthermore, parchment over silicone mats prevents excessive spreading. Therefore, these adjustments ensure consistency every time.
Variations on the Crumbl Cookies Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chunk Cookies Copycat Recipe
While staying true to the original is great, experimenting adds fun. For example, swap half the semi-sweet chunks for milk chocolate to blend flavors. Moreover, add nuts like walnuts for crunch, or incorporate espresso powder for a mocha twist. Additionally, some bakers include cake batter extract for subtle sweetness, or mix in peanut butter chips for a Reese’s-inspired version.
Another idea is reducing chocolate to 1 cup in the dough for less intensity, then topping generously. However, always maintain the base structure. Therefore, these tweaks allow personalization without losing the essence. Furthermore, for gluten-free, substitute flour 1:1 with a blend, though texture may vary slightly.
Storage, Freezing, and Serving Suggestions
Proper storage keeps your cookies fresh. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. However, they’re best within the first two. Moreover, to freeze, wrap cooled cookies individually in plastic and place in a freezer bag for 1-2 months. Thaw at room temperature or warm in the microwave for 10 seconds.
Serving warm enhances the gooey factor, so reheat briefly if needed. Additionally, pair with milk or ice cream for a dessert upgrade. Therefore, these methods extend enjoyment beyond baking day.
Nutritional Information and Considerations
Each large cookie approximates 705 calories, based on standard calculations. Moreover, it contains about 40g fat, 80g carbs, and 7g protein. However, values vary with exact ingredients. Additionally, for lighter versions, reduce butter or use sugar alternatives, though authenticity may suffer. Therefore, enjoy in moderation as a treat.
Common FAQs About the Recipe
Why did my cookies turn out dry? Likely overmeasured flour or overbaking; use a scale next time. Moreover, how can I make them vegan? Substitute egg with flaxseed mix and use plant-based butter. Additionally, can I skip chilling? Yes, but expect more spread. Therefore, chilling is recommended for best shape.
What if I can’t find chocolate chunks? Chop a bar instead. However, chips melt differently. Furthermore, is this recipe scalable? Absolutely, double for crowds but bake in batches. Thus, these answers address typical concerns.
In conclusion, this Crumbl Cookies Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chunk Cookies copycat recipe empowers you to create gourmet treats affordably. Moreover, with practice, you’ll perfect it, impressing family and friends. Therefore, gather your ingredients and start baking today.