Indulge yourself with these decadent mounded chocolate cookies, perfect for any special occasion or simply to satisfy your sweet tooth. A delightful combination of semi-sweet and unsweetened chocolate, crisp pecans, and walnuts make these cookies a memorable treat. A hint of vanilla extract perfectly rounds off the flavors, making these cookies a stunning addition to your baking repertoire.
Most of the ingredients for mounded chocolate cookies are staples in a baking pantry. However, pecans and walnuts might not be readily available at home. These nuts are usually found in the baking aisle of most supermarkets. You can choose to purchase either bagged whole nuts or pre-chopped versions depending on your preference. Keep in mind, though, that bagged whole nuts tend to have a fresher flavor.
Ingredients for Mounded Chocolate Cookies
Butter: Adds richness and depth of flavor to the cookies.
Semi-sweet chocolate: Provides the main chocolate flavor.
Unsweetened chocolate: Balances out the sweetness.
All-purpose flour: Forms the base of the cookie.
Baking powder: Allows the cookies to rise.
Salt: Enhances the other flavors in the cookies.
Eggs: Binds the ingredients together.
Sugar: Adds sweetness to the cookies.
Vanilla extract: Gives a hint of vanilla flavor.
Chocolate chips: Adds extra pockets of melted chocolate.
Pecans: Provide a crunchy texture and nutty flavor.
Walnuts: Adds another layer of nutty flavor and texture.
One reader, Horatio Mcreynolds says:
These mounded chocolate cookies are a game-changer! The rich, fudgy texture and the perfect balance of chocolate and nuts make them an absolute delight. The recipe is straightforward and the cookies turn out beautifully every time. They're a hit with everyone who tries them!
Key Techniques for Mastering Mounded Chocolate Cookies
How to melt chocolate and butter: Melt the butter in a microwave-safe bowl, then add the chopped chocolate and stir to combine. Heat the mixture in the microwave in 20-second intervals, stirring between each interval, until almost melted. Stir to allow the residual heat to melt the chocolate completely. Alternatively, the butter and chocolate can be melted together slowly in a double boiler on the stovetop.
How to mix the batter: In a stand mixer fitted with the whisk attachment, beat the eggs until light and foamy. Add the sugar and continue whipping until very light and creamy. Then add the vanilla and beat quickly to combine. Change the whisk attachment to the paddle attachment and gradually add the melted chocolate mixture, mixing on medium speed to combine. Add the flour mixture and mix on low speed until incorporated. Finally, add the chocolate chips and nuts and mix in on low speed, finishing by hand to ensure even distribution.
How to shape and chill the batter: Use a 2-inch ice cream scoop to scoop the batter, packing the mixture in and scraping off any excess. Place the mounds of batter onto the prepared baking sheets about 2 inches apart. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
How to bake the cookies: Position the racks in the upper and lower thirds of the oven and preheat the oven to 350°F. Bake the chilled batter for 15 to 17 minutes, rotating the pans halfway through the baking time. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes, then transfer them to a cooling rack. Repeat with the remaining batter, or freeze the unbaked batter and bake them frozen another time.
How To Make Mounded Chocolate Cookies
Munch on these “blobbs” of chocolate cookies, loaded with three types of chocolates and crunchy nuts, for decadent sweet treats!
Serves:
Ingredients
- ½cupunsalted butter
- 8ozsemi-sweet chocolate,chopped
- 3ozunsweetened chocolate,chopped
- ¾cupall-purpose flour
- ½tspbaking powder
- ¼tspsalt
- 3large eggs
- 1¼cupsugar
- 2tspvanilla extract
- 12ozsemi-sweet chocolate chips,or milk chocolate
- 1¼cupspecans,coarsely chopped
- 1cupwalnuts,coarsely chopped
Instructions
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Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
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Place the butter in a medium microwave-safe bowl and heat in the microwave for about 1 minute, until melted. Add the chopped chocolate and stir to combine.
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Heat the melted butter and chocolate in the microwave for 20-second intervals, stirring between each bout of heat, until almost melted. Stir, allowing the residual heat in the bowl to melt the chocolate completely. Set aside and cool to room temperature.
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In a small bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
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In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the whisk attachment, beat the eggs on medium speed for about 90 seconds, until light, creamy, and foamy.
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Add the sugar and continue whipping on medium speed for about 90 seconds more, until very light and creamy. Add the vanilla and beat again quickly to combine.
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Change the whisk attachment to the paddle attachment on the mixer. Gradually add the melted chocolate mixture, mixing on medium speed to combine.
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Add the flour mixture and mix on low speed until incorporated, scraping the sides and bottom of the bowl as necessary.
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Add the chocolate chips and nuts and mix in on low speed. Finish by hand to be sure it’s all evenly combined, especially at the bottom.
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Use a 2-inch ice cream scoop to scoop the batter, packing the mixture in and scraping off any excess. Place the mounds of batter onto the prepared baking sheets about 2 inches apart.
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Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
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Position the racks in the upper and lower thirds of the oven, and preheat the oven to 350 degrees F.
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Bake for 15 to 17 minutes, rotating the pans from top to bottom and front to back half through the baking time.
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Let cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes, then use a spatula to transfer to a cooling rack. Repeat with the remaining batter, or freeze the unbaked blobbs and bake them frozen another time.
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Serve and enjoy!
Nutrition
- Calories: 250.43kcal
- Fat: 15.90g
- Saturated Fat: 7.66g
- Trans Fat: 0.15g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 5.79g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 1.62g
- Carbohydrates: 28.02g
- Fiber: 2.39g
- Sugar: 21.78g
- Protein: 2.98g
- Cholesterol: 30.91mg
- Sodium: 41.40mg
- Calcium: 25.24mg
- Potassium: 140.49mg
- Iron: 1.66mg
- Vitamin A: 39.23µg
- Vitamin C: 0.05mg
Essential Technique for Achieving Perfect Mounded Chocolate Cookies
When incorporating the chocolate mixture into the egg and sugar mixture, ensure it has cooled to room temperature. Adding hot chocolate to the egg mixture could cook the eggs, resulting in a lumpy batter. Also, when adding the flour mixture, mix just until incorporated to avoid overmixing, which can lead to tough cookies. Lastly, chilling the dough before baking helps the cookies maintain their mounded shape and gives a fudgier texture.
Time-Saving Tips for Making Mounded Chocolate Cookies
Prep ahead: You can melt the butter and chocolate in advance and store it in the refrigerator until you're ready to use it. This will save you time when you're ready to start baking.
Use a cookie scoop: Using a cookie scoop will help you portion the dough quickly and efficiently, ensuring that all the cookies are the same size and bake evenly.
Chill the dough: Chilling the dough in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes will help the cookies hold their shape and prevent them from spreading too much while baking.
Freeze the dough: If you don't plan to bake all the cookies at once, you can scoop the dough into mounds and freeze them. Then, you can bake them straight from the freezer when needed.
Use parchment paper: Using parchment paper on the baking sheets will make cleanup easier and save time on washing the pans.
Substitute Ingredients For Mounded Chocolate Cookies Recipe
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unsalted butter – Substitute with coconut oil: Coconut oil can provide a similar richness and flavor to the cookies, while also adding a hint of coconut flavor.
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semi-sweet chocolate – Substitute with dark chocolate: Dark chocolate can be used as a substitute for semi-sweet chocolate, providing a slightly richer and less sweet flavor to the cookies.
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unsweetened chocolate – Substitute with cocoa powder: Cocoa powder can be used as a substitute for unsweetened chocolate, providing the chocolate flavor without the added sweetness.
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all-purpose flour – Substitute with gluten-free flour: For those with gluten sensitivities, gluten-free flour can be used as a substitute for all-purpose flour to make the cookies gluten-free.
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baking powder – Substitute with baking soda: Baking soda can be used as a substitute for baking powder, but it will require an acidic ingredient such as buttermilk or yogurt to activate it.
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eggs – Substitute with applesauce: Applesauce can be used as a substitute for eggs to make the cookies vegan-friendly, providing moisture and binding properties.
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sugar – Substitute with maple syrup: Maple syrup can be used as a substitute for sugar, adding a natural sweetness and a hint of caramel flavor to the cookies.
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chocolate chips – Substitute with cacao nibs: Cacao nibs can be used as a substitute for chocolate chips, providing a more intense chocolate flavor and a crunchy texture to the cookies.
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pecans – Substitute with almonds: Almonds can be used as a substitute for pecans, providing a similar nutty flavor and crunch to the cookies.
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walnuts – Substitute with hazelnuts: Hazelnuts can be used as a substitute for walnuts, adding a rich and slightly sweet flavor to the cookies.
How to Beautifully Present Your Homemade Chocolate Cookies
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Elevate the plating: When presenting the mounded chocolate cookies, ensure that the plating is elegant and visually appealing. Use a clean, white plate to create a stunning contrast against the rich, dark cookies. Arrange the cookies in a circular pattern, creating a visually pleasing mounded effect.
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Garnish with a dusting of powdered sugar: Before serving, delicately dust the plate with a fine layer of powdered sugar. This adds a touch of sophistication and a subtle sweetness to the presentation.
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Incorporate a drizzle of chocolate sauce: Create an artful drizzle of chocolate sauce on the plate to add a touch of decadence. This not only enhances the visual appeal but also complements the rich chocolate flavor of the cookies.
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Accompany with a dollop of whipped cream: Serve the mounded chocolate cookies with a small, carefully placed dollop of freshly whipped cream. This adds a delightful creaminess and a touch of elegance to the presentation.
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Add a sprig of fresh mint: For a pop of color and a hint of freshness, garnish the plate with a small sprig of fresh mint. This adds a visually appealing element and a subtle hint of herbal fragrance to the presentation.
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Serve with a side of gourmet vanilla ice cream: For an indulgent touch, consider serving the mounded chocolate cookies alongside a small scoop of high-quality vanilla ice cream. This not only enhances the overall presentation but also offers a delightful contrast in flavors and textures.
Essential Kitchen Tools for Making the Perfect Chocolate Cookies
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Mixing bowls: You'll need various sizes of mixing bowls for combining ingredients and preparing the cookie dough.
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Stand mixer or hand mixer: A stand mixer with a paddle and whisk attachment is ideal for mixing the cookie dough, but a hand mixer can also be used.
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Microwave-safe bowl: Use a medium-sized microwave-safe bowl for melting the butter and chocolate.
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Double boiler (optional): If you prefer, you can use a double boiler on the stovetop to melt the butter and chocolate.
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Whisk: A whisk is essential for combining the dry ingredients such as flour, baking powder, and salt.
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Spatula: A spatula will help you to scrape the sides and bottom of the mixing bowl and transfer the cookie dough onto the baking sheets.
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Parchment paper: Line the baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent the cookies from sticking.
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2-inch ice cream scoop: This will help you to portion the cookie dough and create evenly sized mounds on the baking sheets.
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Baking sheets: You'll need two baking sheets for baking the cookies.
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Cooling rack: A cooling rack is essential for allowing the cookies to cool properly after baking.
How To Properly Store and Freeze Mounded Chocolate Cookies
- Once the cookies have cooled completely, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. To keep them extra fresh, place a slice of bread in the container, which will help absorb any excess moisture and maintain the cookies' texture.
- For longer storage, you can freeze the cookies. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, about 1-2 hours. Then, transfer the frozen cookies to a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag, separating layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Freeze for up to 3 months.
- To enjoy the frozen cookies, let them thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes, or warm them up in the microwave for 10-15 seconds for a freshly-baked taste.
- If you have leftover cookie dough, you can scoop it into mounds and freeze them on a baking sheet until solid. Transfer the frozen dough mounds to a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag and store in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, place the frozen dough mounds on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake directly from the freezer, adding 1-2 minutes to the baking time.
- To maintain the best quality and flavor of your chocolate cookies, make sure to wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil before placing them in an airtight container. This will help prevent freezer burn and keep them tasting fresh.
How To Reheat Leftover Chocolate Cookies
Here are the best methods for reheating leftover mounded chocolate cookies:
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Oven method: 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 the cookies are warm and slightly crisp around the edges. This method helps restore the original texture and flavor of the chocolate cookies.
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Microwave method: If you're short on time, you can reheat the cookies in the microwave. Place a single cookie on a microwave-safe plate and heat it for 10-15 seconds. If the cookie isn't warm enough, heat it for an additional 5-10 seconds. Be careful not to overheat, as this can cause the chocolate to burn and the cookie to become too soft.
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Toaster oven method: Preheat your toaster oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the cookies on a small baking sheet or directly on the toaster oven rack. Heat for 3-5 minutes, or until the cookies are warm and slightly crisp. This method is ideal for reheating small batches of cookies.
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Air fryer method: Set your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Place the cookies in the air fryer basket, ensuring they aren't overlapping. Heat for 2-3 minutes, or until the cookies are warm and slightly crisp. This method is quick and helps maintain the cookies' original texture.
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Stovetop method: Heat a non-stick skillet over medium-low heat. Place the cookies in the skillet and cover with a lid. Heat for 1-2 minutes, or until the cookies are warm and slightly soft. This method is best for achieving a soft and gooey texture, especially if you enjoy melted chocolate in your cookies.
Surprising Fact About Chocolate Cookies You Might Not Know
The mounded chocolate cookies recipe is a delightful treat for any chocolate lover. The combination of semi-sweet and unsweetened chocolate, along with chocolate chips, creates a rich and indulgent flavor. The addition of pecans and walnuts provides a satisfying crunch and nutty undertones. These cookies are perfect for satisfying sweet cravings and are a great option for gifting or serving at gatherings. The recipe's versatility allows for customization, such as adding different types of chocolate chips or peanut butter chips for variety. Whether enjoyed fresh from the oven or stored for later, these mounded chocolate cookies are sure to be a hit.
Is Making Mounded Chocolate Cookies at Home Cost-Effective?
The cost-effectiveness of this mounded chocolate cookies recipe largely depends on the availability and cost of ingredients. While the use of chocolate, nuts, and butter can be relatively expensive, the recipe yields a substantial quantity of cookies, making it suitable for a household. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people would be around $20-$25, considering the quality of ingredients. The overall verdict rating for this recipe would be 9/10, as it offers a decadent and satisfying treat that can be enjoyed by the whole family.
Are Mounded Chocolate Cookies Healthy or Unhealthy?
This mounded chocolate cookie recipe is undeniably delicious, but it's not the healthiest choice. Here's why:
- The recipe is high in calories, with significant amounts of butter, sugar, and chocolate.
- It contains a lot of saturated fat from the butter and chocolate, which can raise LDL (bad) cholesterol levels.
- The recipe is also high in added sugars, which can contribute to weight gain and other health issues when consumed in excess.
- While the recipe does include some nuts, which provide healthy fats and nutrients, the overall nutritional balance is skewed towards less healthy ingredients.
To make this recipe healthier, consider the following modifications:
- Reduce the amount of sugar by 1/4 to 1/2 cup. You can also experiment with natural sweeteners like coconut sugar or maple syrup.
- Use a mix of whole wheat flour and all-purpose flour to increase the fiber content and nutritional value.
- Opt for dark chocolate with a higher percentage of cocoa (70% or above) to reduce sugar content and increase antioxidants.
- Reduce the amount of chocolate chips and increase the proportion of nuts to improve the balance of healthy fats and reduce added sugars.
- Consider adding dried fruits like cranberries or raisins for natural sweetness and additional nutrients.
Editor's Opinion: Why This Chocolate Cookie Recipe Stands Out
The mounded chocolate cookies recipe is a delightful indulgence that combines the richness of chocolate with the crunch of nuts. The use of both semi-sweet and unsweetened chocolate creates a complex and decadent flavor profile, while the addition of pecans and walnuts provides a satisfying texture. The technique of chilling the batter before baking ensures the cookies maintain their mounded shape, resulting in a visually appealing and delicious treat. The recipe's versatility in accommodating nut-free variations and its freezer-friendly nature make it a practical and enjoyable option for any occasion.
Why trust this Mounded Chocolate Cookies Recipe:
This decadent mounded chocolate cookies recipe is a tried and tested favorite, crafted with precision and expertise. The rich blend of semi-sweet chocolate, unsweetened chocolate, and a medley of pecans and walnuts creates a symphony of flavors and textures. The meticulous instructions ensure foolproof results, while the option to customize with chocolate chips or peanut butter chips caters to diverse preferences. With a perfect balance of sweetness and depth, these cookies are a delightful indulgence for any occasion. Trust in the expertise behind this recipe for a truly unforgettable culinary experience.
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