Published September 2018, Edited October 2022; new website revision 2024

Falltime means baking in our home! I love this season between September and New Year's, and I must admit that although we try to keep things relatively healthy (with a balance, of course) during these next few months, I can tend to go overboard with the cookies!! I think it is important for kids to understand the importance of good nutrition and health, but not to let them miss out on fun things and treats! Sometimes you just need to bake with butter and flour and all of the comfort things!

Traditions are Made in the Kitchen

There's something incredibly special about gathering in the kitchen with your family, especially during the colder months. Baking cookies together not only fills the house with warmth and the irresistible smell of chocolate, but it also creates lasting memories. The tradition of baking cookies in our house has become a cherished family ritual, allowing us to slow down, enjoy each other's company, and indulge in a simple sweet treat.

This year, we've perfected a recipe that combines the richness of melted chocolate with the delightful texture of a classic chewy cookie. The result is a treat that feels almost like a brownie but in cookie form. It's the perfect recipe to share with family and friends, making any fall or winter day just a little bit sweeter.

Supplies You Will Need…

Hand mixer

Baking / Cookie Sheets

Cookie Scoop

Cooling Rack

Recommended: Parchment Paper

INGREDIENTS

2 Cups All Purpose Flour

¼ Cup Cocoa/Cacao Powder

⅓ Cup Chocolate Chips (for melting)

1 Cup Salted Butter (softened)

2 Eggs

½ Cup Brown Sugar

½ Cup White Sugar

1 tsp Baking Soda

½ Cup Chocolate Chips

Optional Variations:

For Halloween, add in Halloween-colored sprinkles and shapes—see it here!
Reese’s Pieces or peanut butter chips can be added or replaced with the chocolate chips
For Christmas, try with Andes Mints!

Directions:

Preheat Oven: 350 degrees.
Line baking sheet with parchment paper.
Melt chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl or in a double boiler, set aside.
In a mixing bowl, cream sugar and butter.
Add in eggs and beat until well combined.
Then add in your melted chocolate and vanilla.
Slowly add in your baking soda, cocoa powder, and flour.
Once everything has been well combined, fold in your chocolate chips (and/or Reese’s Pieces).
Using a cookie scoop, place cookies on a baking sheet about 1 - 1 ½ inches apart as these cookies will spread out a little bit.
Bake for about 11-12 minutes, adjust to your oven accordingly.
Let cookies sit on the baking sheet for 1-2 minutes, then transfer them to a cooling rack.

Enjoy these delightful chocolate cookies with your family, creating new traditions and savoring the sweet moments together.