Chocolate Sugar Cookies are the perfect combination of classic sugar cookie texture and deep cocoa flavor. These cookies are soft in the center, lightly crisp on the edges, and packed with rich, chocolatey goodness in every bite. They’re ideal for holiday cookie trays, special occasions, or just when that cocoa craving hits. Rolled in sugar before baking, they get a sparkly exterior and a delightful crunch with each bite. Whether you’re baking for a crowd or whipping up a batch for yourself, these cookies are as easy to make as they are delicious to eat. The dough is simple and doesn’t require chilling, which means you can go from mixing to munching in under 30 minutes. If you love soft, chewy cookies with bold chocolate flavor, this recipe will quickly become a favorite in your baking rotation.
What Makes This Recipe Special?
These Chocolate Sugar Cookies are a delightful twist on a beloved classic. They offer the same tender texture you expect from a traditional sugar cookie but with a rich chocolate upgrade. The sugar coating adds a crisp exterior and slight sparkle that makes them stand out on any cookie tray. They’re quick to prepare, perfect for decorating, and sturdy enough to gift or ship.
Cooking Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Bake Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Servings: About 24 cookies
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar (plus extra for rolling)
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ¼ teaspoon salt
Instructions
1. Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy—about 2–3 minutes using a hand or stand mixer.
2. Add Egg and Vanilla
Mix in the egg and vanilla extract, beating until fully combined.
3. Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined. Do not overmix.
4. Shape and Bake
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper. Scoop out tablespoon-sized balls of dough and roll each in granulated sugar. Place 2 inches apart on the baking sheet. Bake for 9–10 minutes until the edges are set. Let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Variations
- Double Chocolate: Stir in ½ cup of chocolate chips for extra gooey goodness.
- Mocha Flavor: Add 1 teaspoon of instant coffee granules to the dry mix.
- Mint Chocolate: Use peppermint extract instead of vanilla for a refreshing twist.
- Spicy Chocolate: A pinch of cayenne or cinnamon adds warmth and depth.
- Holiday Touch: Roll in colored sugar or top with sprinkles for festive flair.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Mixing bowls
- Hand or stand mixer
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Rubber spatula
- Baking sheets
- Parchment paper
- Cookie scoop (optional)
Nutritional Information (Per Cookie)
- Calories: ~130
- Carbs: 16g
- Fat: 7g
- Protein: 1g
- Sugar: 9g
Note: These values are estimates and can vary based on ingredients used.
Storage Tips
- Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Freezing Dough: Scoop and freeze dough balls on a tray, then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake straight from frozen with 1 extra minute.
- Freezing Baked Cookies: Cool completely and freeze in layers between parchment for up to 2 months.
My Cooking Experience
With over 4 years of baking experience, I’ve found these Chocolate Sugar Cookies to be one of the most versatile and dependable recipes in my collection. They’re quick, easy, and deliver rich flavor with minimal effort. I love how the sugar coating gives them that extra texture and sparkle, making them feel special even with simple ingredients. These are always a go-to when I want something chocolatey without making a full batch of brownies or cake.
Conclusion
Chocolate Sugar Cookies are a simple yet deeply satisfying treat that brings together the best of both sugar and chocolate cookies. Soft, chewy, and rich in flavor, they’re easy to make and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re filling a cookie jar, building a holiday platter, or baking for loved ones, these cookies are sure to please. Give them a try and you’ll see just how quickly they become a favorite in your home kitchen.
Chocolate Sugar Cookies
Ingredients
Method
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy—about 2–3 minutes using a hand or stand mixer.
- Mix in the egg and vanilla extract, beating until fully combined.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined. Do not overmix.
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper. Scoop out tablespoon-sized balls of dough and roll each in granulated sugar. Place 2 inches apart on the baking sheet. Bake for 9–10 minutes until the edges are set. Let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Notes
- Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Freezing Dough: Scoop and freeze dough balls on a tray, then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake straight from frozen with 1 extra minute.
- Freezing Baked Cookies: Cool completely and freeze in layers between parchment for up to 2 months.
