Hello, cookie lovers! Welcome to another irresistible recipe that is bound to become your new favorite sweet treat—Chewy Chocolate Chip Candy Cookies! Imagine the joy of biting into a soft, gooey cookie filled with melty chocolate chips, bursts of colorful candy, and a rich, chocolate hazelnut center. This recipe is perfect for anyone who adores chewy, chocolatey goodness with a surprise in every bite. Whether you’re baking for family, friends, or a special occasion, these Gooey Chocolate Candy Explosion Cookies are guaranteed to impress. Let’s dive into the deliciousness!
Introduction
Chewy Chocolate Chip Candy Cookies, also known as Gooey Chocolate Candy Explosion Cookies, combine the classic chocolate chip cookie with a fun twist—candy-coated chocolate pieces and a luxurious chocolate hazelnut filling. Originating from the idea of fusing traditional cookies with the excitement of candy, these cookies are a crowd-pleaser, making them perfect for kids and adults alike. The combination of textures—from the crunch of the candy to the soft, chewy center—makes these cookies an irresistible treat. Plus, they are incredibly easy to make, so even beginner bakers can enjoy the process. If you’re looking for a comforting, sweet snack that blends the best of both worlds—cookies and candy—then this Gooey Chocolate Candy Explosion recipe is the one to try!
Ingredients for Chewy Chocolate Chip Candy Cookies
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
(Butter adds richness and moisture to the dough. Make sure it’s softened for easier mixing.) - 1 cup brown sugar, packed
(Gives the cookies a chewy texture and deep, caramelized flavor.) - 1/2 cup granulated sugar
(Balances the sweetness and provides a slight crispiness to the edges.) - 2 large eggs
(Adds structure and richness to the dough.) - 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
(Enhances the flavor of the chocolate and cookies.) - 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
(Forms the base of the cookie dough.) - 1 teaspoon baking soda
(Helps the cookies rise and gives them a soft, fluffy texture.) - 1/2 teaspoon salt
(Balances the sweetness and enhances the overall flavor.) - 1 1/2 cups rolled oats
(Adds a chewy texture and nutty flavor to the cookies.) - 1 1/2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
(Melts beautifully inside the cookies for gooey chocolate pockets.) - 1 cup candy-coated chocolate pieces (e.g., M&Ms)
(Adds a fun, colorful crunch to each bite.) - 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
(For a bit of crunch and a nutty flavor.) - 1 cup chocolate hazelnut spread (for filling)
(The star of the show, providing a luscious, gooey center.)
How to Make Chewy Chocolate Chip Candy Cookies – Step by Step
Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Baking Sheet
How to make Chewy Chocolate Chip Candy Cookies starts with preheating your oven.
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This will ensure even baking and prevent the cookies from sticking.
Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugars
In a large bowl, cream together 1 cup unsalted butter, 1 cup packed brown sugar, and 1/2 cup granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This process usually takes about 2-3 minutes using a hand mixer. Creaming the butter and sugars is crucial for achieving that soft, chewy texture.
Step 3: Add the Eggs and Vanilla
Beat in the 2 large eggs, one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Then, stir in 2 teaspoons vanilla extract. This enhances the flavor of the cookie dough and balances the sweetness.
Step 4: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon baking soda, and 1/2 teaspoon salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Avoid over-mixing to keep the cookies tender.
Step 5: Fold in the Goodies
Gently fold in 1 1/2 cups rolled oats, 1 1/2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips, and 1 cup candy-coated chocolate pieces. If you’re feeling extra indulgent, add 1/2 cup chopped walnuts for some added crunch. The oats provide a delightful chewy texture, while the chocolate chips and candies add bursts of sweetness.
Step 6: Form the Cookie Dough
Using a cookie scoop or your hands, scoop out dough balls about 2 tablespoons in size. Flatten each ball slightly and place 1 teaspoon of chocolate hazelnut spread in the center. Fold the dough over the filling, reshaping it into a ball to seal the hazelnut goodness inside.
Step 7: Bake to Perfection
Place the stuffed dough balls on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake the cookies for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown but the centers remain soft. Be careful not to overbake! Once out of the oven, allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Helpful Tips for Chewy Chocolate Chip Candy Cookies
- Chill the Dough: For an even chewier texture, consider chilling the dough for 30 minutes before baking. This step helps the cookies hold their shape and prevents spreading.
- Substitute Nuts: If you or your guests have a nut allergy, simply omit the walnuts or replace them with sunflower seeds or more candy pieces.
- Mix of Candies: Feel free to get creative with the candy choices! Swap out M&Ms for other candy-coated chocolates, peanut butter candies, or even caramel pieces.
- Freshness Tip: For the best flavor, use fresh chocolate hazelnut spread and semi-sweet chocolate chips. Stale ingredients can impact the taste and texture of the cookies.
Cooking Tips for the Best Gooey Chocolate Candy Explosion Cookies
- Don’t Overmix: When combining the wet and dry ingredients, mix just until everything is incorporated. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies.
- Oven Temperature Matters: Every oven is different, so keep an eye on your cookies starting at the 9-minute mark. They should be golden around the edges but still soft in the center for the perfect chewy texture.
- Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure the butter is softened and the eggs are at room temperature. This allows for smoother mixing and better incorporation, resulting in a more uniform cookie texture.
Serving Suggestions for Chewy Chocolate Chip Candy Cookies
These cookies are fantastic on their own, but why not take them to the next level? Serve them warm with a glass of cold milk or a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side. They also pair well with hot coffee or a frothy cappuccino for a cozy afternoon snack. For a fun party platter, arrange the cookies on a transparent glass plate with extra candy-coated chocolates scattered around for a pop of color. Whether you’re serving them at a bake sale, family gathering, or just as a sweet treat at home, these cookies are sure to be a hit!
Nutritional Information
Each cookie is not only delicious but also packs a decent amount of energy. Here’s a brief breakdown:
- Calories: 250
- Total Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
- Sodium: 150mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 34g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 20g
- Protein: 4g
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
Nutritional Info for Chewy Chocolate Chip Candy Cookies:
- Calories: 250
- Total Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
- Sodium: 150mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 34g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 20g
- Protein: 4g
Storage and Leftovers for Chewy Chocolate Chip Candy Cookies
To keep your cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the baked cookies in a zip-top freezer bag for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply pop a cookie in the microwave for 10-15 seconds, and it’ll be as warm and gooey as if it just came out of the oven. If you’re freezing the dough, shape the dough balls and freeze them on a baking sheet before transferring to a bag—this way, you can bake fresh cookies anytime you like!
4 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for Chewy Chocolate Chip Candy Cookies
Q1: Can I use different types of chocolate in this recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with milk chocolate, dark chocolate, or even white chocolate chips for a variety of flavors.
Q2: How can I make these cookies gluten-free?
You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure the oats you use are certified gluten-free as well.
Q3: What can I use instead of chocolate hazelnut spread?
If you don’t have chocolate hazelnut spread, you can use peanut butter, almond butter, or any other spreadable filling of your choice.
Q4: Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes! The dough can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 48 hours. You can also freeze the dough balls for quick, fresh cookies whenever you need them.
Related Recipes for Cookie Lovers
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Butterfinger Caramel Crunch Cookies – Gooey & Crunchy Treats
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Chocolate Pumpkin Spider Cookies – Spooky Halloween Treats
.
Conclusion
There you have it—your new go-to recipe for Chewy Chocolate Chip Candy Cookies! These gooey, candy-filled cookies are perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth or impressing at your next gathering. We hope you enjoy baking and sharing these cookies as much as we enjoyed creating the recipe for you. If you give this recipe a try, feel free to leave a comment below with your thoughts or any fun twists you added. Happy baking!
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Chewy Chocolate Chip Candy Cookies | Gooey & Delicious
Description
Hello, cookie lovers! Welcome to another irresistible recipe that is bound to become your new favorite sweet treat—Chewy Chocolate Chip Candy Cookies! Imagine the joy of biting into a soft, gooey cookie filled with melty chocolate chips, bursts of colorful candy, and a rich, chocolate hazelnut center. This recipe is perfect for anyone who adores chewy, chocolatey goodness with a surprise in every bite. Whether you’re baking for family, friends, or a special occasion, these Gooey Chocolate Candy Explosion Cookies are guaranteed to impress. Let’s dive into the deliciousness!
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
(Butter adds richness and moisture to the dough. Make sure it’s softened for easier mixing.) - 1 cup brown sugar, packed
(Gives the cookies a chewy texture and deep, caramelized flavor.) - 1/2 cup granulated sugar
(Balances the sweetness and provides a slight crispiness to the edges.) - 2 large eggs
(Adds structure and richness to the dough.) - 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
(Enhances the flavor of the chocolate and cookies.) - 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
(Forms the base of the cookie dough.) - 1 teaspoon baking soda
(Helps the cookies rise and gives them a soft, fluffy texture.) - 1/2 teaspoon salt
(Balances the sweetness and enhances the overall flavor.) - 1 1/2 cups rolled oats
(Adds a chewy texture and nutty flavor to the cookies.) - 1 1/2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
(Melts beautifully inside the cookies for gooey chocolate pockets.) - 1 cup candy-coated chocolate pieces (e.g., M&Ms)
(Adds a fun, colorful crunch to each bite.) - 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
(For a bit of crunch and a nutty flavor.) - 1 cup chocolate hazelnut spread (for filling)
(The star of the show, providing a luscious, gooey center.)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Baking Sheet
How to make Chewy Chocolate Chip Candy Cookies starts with preheating your oven.
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This will ensure even baking and prevent the cookies from sticking.
Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugars
In a large bowl, cream together 1 cup unsalted butter, 1 cup packed brown sugar, and 1/2 cup granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This process usually takes about 2-3 minutes using a hand mixer. Creaming the butter and sugars is crucial for achieving that soft, chewy texture.
Step 3: Add the Eggs and Vanilla
Beat in the 2 large eggs, one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Then, stir in 2 teaspoons vanilla extract. This enhances the flavor of the cookie dough and balances the sweetness.
Step 4: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon baking soda, and 1/2 teaspoon salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Avoid over-mixing to keep the cookies tender.
Step 5: Fold in the Goodies
Gently fold in 1 1/2 cups rolled oats, 1 1/2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips, and 1 cup candy-coated chocolate pieces. If you’re feeling extra indulgent, add 1/2 cup chopped walnuts for some added crunch. The oats provide a delightful chewy texture, while the chocolate chips and candies add bursts of sweetness.
Step 6: Form the Cookie Dough
Using a cookie scoop or your hands, scoop out dough balls about 2 tablespoons in size. Flatten each ball slightly and place 1 teaspoon of chocolate hazelnut spread in the center. Fold the dough over the filling, reshaping it into a ball to seal the hazelnut goodness inside.
Step 7: Bake to Perfection
Place the stuffed dough balls on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake the cookies for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown but the centers remain soft. Be careful not to overbake! Once out of the oven, allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Equipment
2Pcs Heart Shape Cake Pans, Aluminum Heart Cake Mold, Reusable 10 inch
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Kids Chill Leak-Proof Lunch Box – Included Reusable Ice Pack Keeps Food Cold
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- Chill the Dough: For an even chewier texture, consider chilling the dough for 30 minutes before baking. This step helps the cookies hold their shape and prevents spreading.
- Substitute Nuts: If you or your guests have a nut allergy, simply omit the walnuts or replace them with sunflower seeds or more candy pieces.
- Mix of Candies: Feel free to get creative with the candy choices! Swap out M&Ms for other candy-coated chocolates, peanut butter candies, or even caramel pieces.
- Freshness Tip: For the best flavor, use fresh chocolate hazelnut spread and semi-sweet chocolate chips. Stale ingredients can impact the taste and texture of the cookies.
