Dark Chocolate Halloween Cookies

Introduction:

These Dark Chocolate Halloween Cookies are perfect for any Halloween party, featuring rich dark chocolate and festive orange candies. They’re sure to be a hit with both kids and adults alike!

Ingredients

• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, room temperature
• ¾ cup packed brown sugar
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• ¾ cup dark cocoa powder (such as Hershey’s Special Dark®)
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon instant espresso powder (optional)
• 1 cup dark chocolate chips
• 1 ¼ cups orange-colored M&Ms® (or other orange candy-coated chocolates)

Directions

1. Preheat & Prepare: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats.
2. Cream the Butter and Sugars: In a mixing bowl, cream together the room temperature butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Mix Wet Ingredients: Add the eggs and vanilla extract to the creamed mixture, mixing until well combined.
4. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, dark cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and espresso powder (if using).
5. Mix Dough: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until a thick dough forms. Stir in the dark chocolate chips.
6. Add M&Ms: Gently fold in about half of the orange M&Ms into the dough, reserving the rest for topping.
7. Shape Cookies: Using a 2-tablespoon ice cream scoop or spoon, scoop the dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Press a few extra M&Ms on top of each cookie.
8. Bake: Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are firm but the centers are still soft. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: About 24 cookies
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 8-10 minutes per batch
• Total Time: Approximately 30 minutes

Variations

• Add Nuts: Mix in chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for extra crunch.
• Flavor Twist: Substitute the dark cocoa powder with milk cocoa powder for a milder chocolate flavor.
• Different Colors: Use M&Ms in various colors to match different holidays or themes.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.
• Freezing: Freeze cookies in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. To thaw, let them sit at room temperature for a few hours.

10 FAQs

1. Can I use milk chocolate chips instead of dark chocolate chips?
   • Yes, you can substitute milk chocolate chips for a sweeter cookie.
2. Can I omit the instant espresso powder?
   • Yes, the espresso powder enhances the chocolate flavor, but you can leave it out if preferred.
3. Can I make the dough in advance?
   • Yes, you can prepare the dough and refrigerate it for up to 3 days before baking.
4. Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
   • Yes, but the texture may be slightly different.
5. How do I ensure the cookies are soft in the middle?
   • Bake just until the edges are firm and the centers are still soft; they will firm up as they cool.
6. Can I use different types of candy?
   • Yes, you can use any type of candy-coated chocolate or even chopped candies.
7. What can I use instead of M&Ms?
   • You can use chocolate chips, peanut butter cups, or other candy pieces.
8. How should I store the cookies?
   • Store in an airtight container to keep them fresh and chewy.
9. Can I freeze the cookie dough?
   • Yes, freeze the dough balls on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Bake from frozen, adding a minute or two to the baking time.
10. Can I use natural cocoa powder instead of dark cocoa powder?
    • Yes, but the cookies will have a lighter color and slightly different flavor.

Conclusion

These Dark Chocolate Halloween Cookies are a delightful treat for any Halloween gathering, combining rich chocolate flavors with festive orange candies. Easy to make and perfect for sharing, they will add a spooky touch to your holiday celebrations. Enjoy baking and indulging in these delicious cookies!

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