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.