Name: Insanely Gooey Fudge Cookies Recipe
Prep time: 45 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 55 min
Yield: 24
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup all-purpose flour; ¼ cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1 tsp baking powder; ¼ tsp salt; 8 oz semi-sweet chocolate; 2 large eggs; 1 tsp pure vanilla extract; 5 tbsp unsalted butter; ¾ cup packed light brown sugar; ¼ cup granulated sugar; 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips; 14 Snack size York Peppermint Patties

These insanely gooey fudge cookies are a chocolate lover's dream come true. With a rich, gooey center and a hint of cool peppermint, they are perfect for satisfying any sweet tooth. Each bite melts in your mouth, making it impossible to eat just one.

Photos of Insanely Gooey Fudge Cookies Recipe

Most of the ingredients for these cookies are pantry staples, but you might need to pick up some semi-sweet chocolate and York peppermint patties. While the semi-sweet chocolate is essential for the melted, gooey texture, the York peppermint patties add a refreshing minty surprise to each bite.

Ingredients For Insanely Gooey Fudge Cookies

all-purpose flour: Basic flour used as the foundation for the cookie dough.

unsweetened cocoa powder: Adds rich chocolate flavor without any added sweetness.

baking powder: Helps the cookies rise slightly and become fluffy.

salt: Enhances the flavors of all the other ingredients.

semi-sweet chocolate: Melts into the dough to create a gooey texture.

eggs: Binds the ingredients together and adds moisture.

pure vanilla extract: Adds a depth of flavor and enhances the chocolate taste.

unsalted butter: Provides richness without adding any extra salt.

light brown sugar: Adds a hint of molasses and sweetness to the cookies.

granulated sugar: Balances the sweetness and gives a slight crunch.

chocolate chips: Adds more gooey chocolate goodness to the cookies.

York peppermint patties: Offers a cool, minty contrast to the rich chocolate.

One reader, Blaire Sturm says:

These insanely gooey fudge cookies are a chocolate lover's dream! The combination of semi-sweet chocolate and peppermint patties creates a perfect balance of rich and refreshing flavors. The texture is incredibly soft and fudgy, making each bite pure bliss. Highly recommend for any cookie enthusiast!

Blaire Sturm

Techniques Required for Insanely Gooey Fudge Cookies

How to sift dry ingredients: Use a fine-mesh sieve or sifter to aerate the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt, ensuring they are evenly combined and free of lumps.

How to melt chocolate: Place the chocolate in a microwave-safe bowl and heat in the microwave for about 1 minute. Stir, then continue to melt in 30-second increments until fully melted and smooth.

How to beat butter and sugar: Use an electric mixer on medium speed to beat the butter until smooth and creamy, then gradually add the sugars, scraping down the sides of the bowl to ensure even mixing.

How to chill dough: Place the mixed dough in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to firm up, which helps prevent the cookies from spreading too much during baking.

How to preheat oven: Set your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and allow it to reach the desired temperature before baking the cookies.

How to scoop and roll dough: Use a spoon or cookie scoop to measure out about 2 tablespoons of dough, then roll it into a ball with your hands.

How to bake cookies: Place the dough balls on a baking sheet and bake for about 10 minutes, or until the cookies have just begun to set with the centers still appearing very soft.

How to cool cookies: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for at least 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

How To Make Insanely Gooey Fudge Cookies

We’re not exaggerating when we say these fudge cookies are weirdly gooey and chocolatey it looks like it’s already melting before it reaches your mouth.

Preparation: 45 minutes

Cooking: 10 minutes

Total: 55 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

1cupall-purpose flour
¼cupunsweetened cocoa powder
1tspbaking powder
¼tspsalt
8ozsemi-sweet chocolate,chopped
2largeeggs
1tsppure vanilla extract
5tbspunsalted butter,(75g) softened to room temperature
¾cuppacked light brown sugar,(150g)
¼cupgranulated sugar,(50g)
1cupsemi-sweet chocolate chips,(180g)
14Snack size York Peppermint Patties,chopped

Instructions

Sift together flour, cocoa powder, baking powder and salt in a medium bowl. Set aside.
Melt the chocolate in the microwave for about 1 minute. Stir.
Continue to melt in 30 second increments until fully melted and smooth. Set aside.
In a small bowl, whisk the eggs and vanilla. Set aside.
With an electric mixer on medium speed, beat the butter until smooth and creamy for about 1 minute.
Beat in the sugars, scraping down the sides every 10 seconds or so. The mixture will be granular.
Mix in the beaten egg/vanilla until incorporated.
Add the chocolate in a steady stream and beat until combined.
Add the dry ingredients on slow speed. Fold in the chocolate chips.
Do not overmix at any point in this process. Chill dough for at least 30 minutes.
Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.
Scoop about 2 Tablespoons of dough and roll into a ball.
Press a few pieces of peppermint patties on the tops of each cookie ball.
Bake for about 10 minutes, or until the cookies have just begun to set with the centers still appearing very soft.
Allow cookies to cool on baking sheet for at least 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Recipe Notes

Cookies stay fresh covered at room temperature for 5 days.

Nutrition

Calories: 162.92kcal
Fat: 7.97g
Saturated Fat: 4.69g
Trans Fat: 0.10g
Monounsaturated Fat: 2.48g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.36g
Carbohydrates: 24.06g
Fiber: 1.46g
Sugar: 17.90g
Protein: 1.97g
Cholesterol: 21.86mg
Sodium: 49.68mg
Calcium: 30.18mg
Potassium: 95.95mg
Iron: 1.03mg
Vitamin A: 26.90µg

Crucial Technique for Perfect Fudge Cookies

To achieve the perfect texture for these insanely gooey fudge cookies, ensure that you do not overmix the dough after adding the dry ingredients. Overmixing can lead to tougher cookies. Additionally, chilling the dough for at least 30 minutes is crucial as it helps the cookies maintain their shape and prevents them from spreading too much during baking.

Time-Saving Tips for Making Fudge Cookies

Pre-measure ingredients: Measure and prepare all ingredients ahead of time to streamline the baking process.

Use a microwave: Melt the chocolate in the microwave instead of a double boiler to save time.

Chill dough quickly: Place the cookie dough in the freezer for 15 minutes instead of chilling in the fridge for 30 minutes.

Batch baking: Use multiple baking sheets to bake more cookies at once.

Preheat oven early: Start preheating the oven while you prepare the dough to save waiting time.

Substitute Ingredients For Insanely Gooey Fudge Cookies Recipe

all-purpose flour - Substitute with whole wheat flour: Whole wheat flour adds a nutty flavor and more fiber, though it may make the cookies slightly denser.
unsweetened cocoa powder - Substitute with carob powder: Carob powder is naturally sweet and caffeine-free, offering a similar color and texture.
baking powder - Substitute with baking soda and cream of tartar: Use 1/4 tsp baking soda and 1/2 tsp cream of tartar to mimic the leavening effect of baking powder.
salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt can be used in the same quantity and adds a slightly different mineral flavor.
semi-sweet chocolate - Substitute with dark chocolate: Dark chocolate has a richer flavor and less sugar, making the cookies slightly less sweet.
eggs - Substitute with flax eggs: Mix 1 tbsp ground flaxseed with 3 tbsp water per egg. This is a good vegan alternative that helps bind the ingredients.
pure vanilla extract - Substitute with vanilla bean paste: Vanilla bean paste provides a more intense vanilla flavor and includes the seeds for added texture.
unsalted butter - Substitute with coconut oil: Coconut oil can be used in the same quantity and adds a subtle coconut flavor, making the cookies dairy-free.
light brown sugar - Substitute with coconut sugar: Coconut sugar has a lower glycemic index and adds a caramel-like flavor.
granulated sugar - Substitute with maple syrup: Use 3/4 cup maple syrup for every cup of granulated sugar. This adds a rich flavor and makes the cookies slightly more moist.
semi-sweet chocolate chips - Substitute with dark chocolate chips: Dark chocolate chips offer a deeper chocolate flavor and less sweetness.
york peppermint patties - Substitute with andes mints: Andes mints provide a similar minty flavor and can be chopped into small pieces for even distribution.

Presentation Ideas for Gooey Fudge Cookies

Use high-quality ingredients: Ensure that all all-purpose flour, unsweetened cocoa powder, semi-sweet chocolate, and peppermint patties are of the highest quality to enhance the flavor and texture of the cookies.
Create uniform cookie sizes: Scoop the dough using a standard-sized cookie scoop to ensure each cookie is the same size, which will help with even baking and presentation.
Incorporate a surprise element: Press a few pieces of peppermint patties on the tops of each cookie ball to add a delightful surprise of minty goodness when bitten into.
Bake to perfection: Keep a close eye on the cookies while baking to ensure they are just set with soft centers, achieving that perfect gooey texture.
Cool strategically: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for at least 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack. This helps them set properly and maintain their shape.
Plate with elegance: Arrange the cookies on a sleek, modern plate. Stack a few cookies at varying angles to create visual interest and height.
Add a touch of garnish: Sprinkle a light dusting of cocoa powder or powdered sugar over the cookies for a refined finish.
Serve with a complementary beverage: Pair the cookies with a small glass of milk or a shot of espresso to enhance the overall tasting experience.
Highlight the gooey texture: Break one cookie in half and place it prominently on the plate to showcase the gooey, fudgy center, enticing the judges with its visual appeal.
Use a minimalist approach: Keep the presentation clean and simple, allowing the rich, decadent cookies to be the star of the plate without unnecessary distractions.

Essential Tools for Making Fudge Cookies

Medium bowl: Used to sift together the dry ingredients like flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.
Sifter: Helps in sifting the dry ingredients to ensure they are well combined and free of lumps.
Microwave: Used to melt the semi-sweet chocolate in short increments until smooth.
Small bowl: For whisking together the eggs and vanilla extract.
Electric mixer: Essential for beating the butter until smooth and creamy, and for mixing in the sugars and other ingredients.
Spatula: Useful for scraping down the sides of the bowl to ensure all ingredients are well incorporated.
Measuring cups: For accurately measuring out ingredients like flour, cocoa powder, and sugars.
Measuring spoons: For precise measurement of smaller quantities like baking powder, salt, and vanilla extract.
Baking sheet: Where the cookie dough balls will be placed for baking.
Parchment paper: Lining the baking sheet to prevent the cookies from sticking.
Wire rack: Used for cooling the cookies after they have been baked.
Refrigerator: For chilling the dough for at least 30 minutes before baking.
Oven: Preheated to 350 degrees F for baking the cookies.
Cookie scoop: Helps in scooping out uniform amounts of dough to form cookie balls.
Knife: For cutting the peppermint patties into pieces to press onto the cookie dough balls.

Storing and Freezing Insanely Gooey Fudge Cookies

Allow the cookies to cool completely before storing. If you store them while they are still warm, condensation can build up and make the cookies soggy.
Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. Place a piece of bread in the container to help absorb any excess moisture and keep the cookies soft and chewy.
For longer storage, freeze the cookies for up to 3 months. Wrap each cookie individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag. This will prevent the cookies from sticking together and help maintain their texture.
To thaw frozen cookies, remove them from the freezer and let them sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes. You can also microwave individual cookies for 10-15 seconds to warm them up slightly before serving.
If you want to enjoy the cookies warm, you can reheat them in the microwave for a few seconds or in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes. This will make the chocolate gooey and the cookies even more delicious.

How To Reheat Leftover Fudge Cookies

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the cookies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 5-7 minutes, or until they are heated through and the chocolate chips are starting to melt. This method will help restore the gooey texture and melt the peppermint patties on top.
For a quicker option, you can use the microwave. Place the cookies on a microwave-safe plate and heat them in 15-second intervals until they reach your desired temperature. Be careful not to overheat them, as this can cause the chocolate to burn and the cookies to become tough.
If you want to enjoy your cookies with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, try heating them up in a skillet. Place the cookies in a non-stick skillet over medium-low heat and cover with a lid. Heat for 2-3 minutes, or until the bottoms are crispy and the chocolate is melted. Serve immediately with a scoop of ice cream on top.
For a crispy exterior and a gooey interior, use the air fryer. Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and place the cookies in the basket. Cook for 2-3 minutes, or until they are heated through and the edges are slightly crispy. This method works best if you have a few cookies to reheat at once.
If you have a large batch of cookies to reheat, you can use the slow cooker. Place the cookies in the slow cooker and cover with a lid. Heat on low for 1-2 hours, or until they are heated through and the chocolate is melted. This method is perfect for keeping the cookies warm and gooey for an extended period.

Interesting Fact About Fudge Cookies

A fun fact about this recipe is that the combination of semi-sweet chocolate and York peppermint patties creates a delightful contrast of rich, gooey chocolate and refreshing mint, making these cookies a unique treat.

Is Making Fudge Cookies at Home Cost-Effective?

This dessert recipe, featuring semi-sweet chocolate and peppermint patties, is moderately cost-effective. The ingredients, including unsweetened cocoa powder and light brown sugar, are generally affordable and often found in most households. The most significant cost comes from the semi-sweet chocolate and peppermint patties, but these can be bought in bulk for savings. Overall, the approximate cost for a household of 4 is around $12-$15. Considering the indulgent nature and rich flavor, the overall verdict for this recipe is a solid 8 out of 10.

Are Insanely Gooey Fudge Cookies Healthy or Unhealthy?

This fudge cookie recipe, while undeniably delicious, is not particularly healthy. The main ingredients contributing to its indulgent nature are:

High sugar content from both brown and granulated sugar
Significant amount of butter, which is high in saturated fat
Semi-sweet chocolate and chocolate chips, containing added sugar and fat
Refined all-purpose flour, which lacks fiber and nutrients compared to whole grain alternatives
York peppermint patties, which are essentially sugar and fat

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following modifications:

Replace half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat pastry flour to increase fiber content without compromising texture
Reduce the amount of sugar by 25% and experiment with natural sweeteners like date paste or applesauce to maintain moisture
Use dark chocolate (70% cocoa or higher) instead of semi-sweet for the melted chocolate and chocolate chips, as it contains less sugar and more antioxidants
Replace half of the butter with Greek yogurt or mashed avocado to reduce saturated fat while maintaining a creamy texture
Omit the York peppermint patties and instead add a touch of peppermint extract to the batter for a subtle minty flavor
Incorporate chopped nuts, such as almonds or walnuts, to boost protein and healthy fats
Reduce the portion size and enjoy these cookies as an occasional treat rather than a daily indulgence

Editor's Opinion on Insanely Gooey Fudge Cookies

This recipe for insanely gooey fudge cookies is a delightful indulgence. The combination of melted semi-sweet chocolate and cocoa powder ensures a rich, fudgy texture, while the addition of peppermint patties adds a refreshing twist. Chilling the dough is crucial for achieving the perfect consistency. The balance of brown and granulated sugars provides a deep, caramelized sweetness. Overall, this recipe promises a decadent treat that will satisfy any chocolate lover's cravings.

Enhance Your Insanely Gooey Fudge Cookies Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze: Imagine the crispy, caramelized edges of brussels sprouts drizzled with a tangy balsamic glaze. The slight bitterness of the sprouts perfectly complements the insanely gooey fudge cookies, creating a harmonious balance of flavors. The balsamic glaze adds a touch of sweetness that ties everything together beautifully.

Spicy Sweet Potato Wedges: Picture this: sweet potato wedges roasted to perfection with a hint of spice. The natural sweetness of the sweet potatoes contrasts wonderfully with the rich, chocolatey goodness of the fudge cookies. The spicy kick adds an unexpected twist that will leave your taste buds dancing with delight.

Fresh Berry Salad with Mint: Envision a vibrant berry salad bursting with the juiciness of strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries. The refreshing mint leaves add a cool, aromatic touch that pairs exquisitely with the decadent fudge cookies. This salad offers a light and refreshing contrast to the rich dessert, making it a perfect sidekick.

Creamy Avocado and Tomato Salad: Think of a luscious avocado and tomato salad dressed in a creamy lime vinaigrette. The creaminess of the avocado and the tanginess of the tomatoes create a delightful medley of flavors that enhance the indulgence of the gooey fudge cookies. The lime vinaigrette adds a zesty note that brightens up the entire experience.

Grilled Pineapple with Cinnamon: Visualize juicy pineapple slices grilled to perfection and sprinkled with a touch of cinnamon. The natural sweetness of the pineapple caramelizes beautifully on the grill, creating a smoky, sweet treat that pairs wonderfully with the fudge cookies. The hint of cinnamon adds a warm, aromatic layer that elevates the entire dessert experience.

Similar Recipes to Insanely Gooey Fudge Cookies

Triple Chocolate Brownie Cookies: Imagine the ultimate dessert hybrid: a cookie that tastes like a brownie. These Triple Chocolate Brownie Cookies are loaded with cocoa powder, semi-sweet chocolate chips, and dark chocolate chunks. Each bite is a rich, gooey explosion of chocolate goodness.

Peppermint Mocha Cookies: For a festive twist, try these Peppermint Mocha Cookies. Infused with coffee and peppermint extract, these cookies are perfect for the holidays. Top them off with a drizzle of white chocolate and a sprinkle of crushed candy canes for that extra holiday cheer.

Salted Caramel Chocolate Chip Cookies: Take your classic chocolate chip cookies to the next level with a touch of salted caramel. These Salted Caramel Chocolate Chip Cookies feature gooey caramel bits and a sprinkle of sea salt on top. The sweet and salty combination is simply irresistible.

Nutella Stuffed Chocolate Cookies: Indulge in the ultimate chocolate experience with these Nutella Stuffed Chocolate Cookies. Each cookie is stuffed with a generous dollop of Nutella, creating a gooey center that oozes out with every bite. Perfect for chocolate lovers.

Espresso Chocolate Chunk Cookies: Wake up your taste buds with these Espresso Chocolate Chunk Cookies. The espresso powder enhances the chocolate flavor, while the chocolate chunks add a delightful texture. These cookies are perfect for a coffee break or an after-dinner treat.

Appetizers and Main Dishes to Serve with Insanely Gooey Fudge Cookies

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Imagine a platter of stuffed mushrooms that are bursting with flavor. These delightful bites are filled with a savory mixture of cream cheese, garlic, and herbs, creating a creamy and aromatic filling. Topped with a sprinkle of parmesan cheese and baked to golden perfection, they offer a satisfying crunch with every bite. Perfect for any gathering, these mushrooms are a crowd-pleaser that will disappear quickly from the table.

Bruschetta: Transport your guests to Italy with a classic bruschetta. This appetizer features slices of toasted baguette topped with a vibrant mixture of diced tomatoes, fresh basil, and garlic. Drizzled with extra virgin olive oil and a touch of balsamic glaze, each bite is a burst of freshness and flavor. The combination of crunchy bread and juicy toppings makes this a perfect starter for any meal, bringing a taste of the Mediterranean to your table.

Main Courses:

Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken: Elevate your dinner with Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken. This dish features succulent chicken breasts marinated in a blend of fresh lemon juice, garlic, and a medley of herbs. The chicken is then grilled to perfection, resulting in a juicy and flavorful main course. Pair it with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal that is both healthy and satisfying. The zesty lemon and aromatic herbs make this dish a standout choice for any occasion.

Stuffed Bell Peppers: Delight your taste buds with Stuffed Bell Peppers. These vibrant bell peppers are filled with a savory mixture of ground beef, rice, and tomatoes, seasoned with a blend of spices and herbs. Baked until tender, the peppers are topped with melted cheese for an extra layer of deliciousness. Serve them with a side of garlic bread or a green salad for a hearty and wholesome meal. The combination of flavors and textures in this dish makes it a family favorite.

Why trust this Insanely Gooey Fudge Cookies Recipe:

This recipe guarantees insanely gooey fudge cookies that are rich and decadent. The combination of semi-sweet chocolate and peppermint patties creates a delightful contrast of flavors. The step-by-step instructions ensure that even novice bakers can achieve perfect results. Chilling the dough enhances the texture, making these cookies irresistibly chewy. Trust this recipe for a treat that will impress everyone.

Have you tried making these Insanely Gooey Fudge Cookies? Share your experience and discuss the recipe with fellow bakers in the Baking and Desserts forum!

FAQ:

How do I store these cookies to keep them fresh?

I usually store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They stay fresh for about 3-4 days. If you want them to last longer, you can refrigerate them for up to a week or freeze them for up to 3 months.

Can I use dark chocolate instead of semi-sweet chocolate?

Absolutely! If you prefer a richer, more intense chocolate flavor, dark chocolate works great in this recipe. Just make sure to use the same amount.

What if I don't have York peppermint patties?

No worries! You can substitute with any other mint chocolate candies or even leave them out if you're not a fan of mint. The cookies will still be deliciously gooey.

Do I really need to chill the dough?

Yes, chilling the dough is important. It helps the cookies maintain their shape and prevents them from spreading too much while baking. Plus, it enhances the flavors.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Definitely! You can make the dough and keep it in the fridge for up to 2 days before baking. Just make sure to let it sit at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes before scooping and baking.