Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 2 2/3 cups all purpose flour
- 1 1/4 tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp cornstarch
- 1 tsp kosher sea salt
Wet Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 1/4 cup brown sugar (packed)
- 1 tbsp orange zest
- 2 tsp vanilla paste
- 2 eggs
Mix-ins and Garnish
- 6 oz Orange Dark Chocolate bar (chopped; brands like Lindt, Theo, Chocolove etc.)
- Sea salt (for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the butter: Place the butter in a microwave-safe bowl and heat at full strength for 30-45 seconds until almost completely melted, leaving a few soft pieces.
- Combine dry ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, cornstarch, and kosher sea salt to blend evenly.
- Cream butter and sugars: Using a stand mixer or hand mixer, beat the butter with granulated sugar and brown sugar on medium speed for 1 minute. Add the orange zest and vanilla paste, beating for another minute to incorporate the flavors thoroughly.
- Add eggs and dry ingredients: Add eggs one at a time, mixing between additions. Lower the mixer speed and gradually add the dry ingredients, beating just until a soft dough forms. Avoid overmixing to keep the texture tender.
- Fold in chocolate chunks: Gently fold in the chopped orange dark chocolate pieces and any residual chocolate shavings using a spatula for an even distribution.
- Chill the dough: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the dough for at least 2 hours or overnight, allowing the flavors to meld and dough to firm up.
- Preheat oven and prepare baking sheets: Heat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper or baking mats.
- Form cookies: Using a standard-size cookie scoop (about 1.5 tablespoons), scoop dough balls onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them at least 2 inches apart. Optional: Sprinkle a pinch of sea salt on top of each cookie for a subtle contrast.
- Bake the cookies: Bake for 11-13 minutes, rotating the baking sheet halfway through. Remove when the cookie edges are golden brown but centers remain soft.
- Cool the cookies: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 3-4 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely for best texture and flavor development.
Notes
- Chilling the dough improves the flavor and prevents spreading during baking.
- Orange zest can be substituted with fresh lemon zest for a different citrus twist.
- Use high-quality dark chocolate bars for the best flavor and texture.
- Storing cookies in an airtight container keeps them fresh for up to 5 days.
- For thicker cookies, chill the dough overnight before baking.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 13 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American