Chocolate Tahini Cookies
Highlighted under: Soft Planning
I absolutely love baking, and these Chocolate Tahini Cookies have quickly become a favorite in our household. The combination of rich chocolate and nutty tahini creates an indulgent flavor sensation that keeps everyone coming back for more. I've experimented with different ratios of ingredients, and I’ve found this combination yields cookies that are incredibly soft in the center yet have just the right amount of chewiness. Whether enjoyed with a cup of coffee or as a delightful treat after dinner, these cookies are simply irresistible.
When I first decided to try baking with tahini, I was unsure what to expect. To my delight, these Chocolate Tahini Cookies turned out to be a remarkable blend of flavors. The tahini adds a creaminess that complements the dark chocolate perfectly. I’ve also discovered that chilling the dough for at least 30 minutes helps the cookies maintain their shape and enhances the overall flavor.
One of my favorite tips is to sprinkle a touch of sea salt on top before baking. It contrasts nicely with the sweetness of the chocolate, elevating the taste experience to a whole new level. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you for trying this twist on a classic cookie!
Why You'll Love These Cookies
- The perfect marriage of rich chocolate and nutty tahini flavor.
- A soft center with a slight chewiness that makes each bite enjoyable.
- An exciting twist on a classic cookie recipe that's great for any occasion.
The Role of Tahini
Tahini is a key ingredient in these cookies, providing a unique flavor that enhances the overall taste profile. Its natural oils add a richness that complements the chocolate perfectly. When choosing tahini, opt for high-quality, well-stirred varieties for the best flavor. The creaminess of tahini ensures that the cookies retain moisture, resulting in a soft and tender texture, which is crucial for achieving that melt-in-your-mouth experience.
If you find yourself in need of a substitute for tahini, consider using almond or peanut butter. However, be aware that this will slightly alter the flavor and texture of the cookies. Almond butter lends a more subtle nuttiness, while peanut butter can introduce a stronger flavor. Whichever option you choose, make sure to use a smooth variety for the best consistency.
Baking Tips for Perfect Cookies
To ensure your cookies turn out perfectly every time, measure your ingredients accurately. Use a kitchen scale for precision, especially when measuring tahini and sugars. This helps maintain the correct dough consistency, which is critical for achieving the desired soft and chewy texture. Additionally, room-temperature eggs blend more seamlessly into your mixture, contributing to a uniform dough that bakes evenly.
Another essential tip is to monitor your cookies closely towards the end of the baking time. Even a minute too long in the oven can lead to dry cookies. Look for set edges and a slightly underbaked center, as the cookies will continue to firm up on the baking sheet after removal. Don’t hesitate to experiment with your oven’s baking habits—for example, if you notice uneven browning, consider rotating your baking sheet halfway through.
Ingredients
Gather the following ingredients to make the most delicious Chocolate Tahini Cookies:
Ingredients
- 1 cup tahini
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup dark chocolate chips
Make sure to measure all ingredients accurately for the best results!
Instructions
Follow these steps to bake your Chocolate Tahini Cookies:
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Mix Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine tahini, brown sugar, and granulated sugar. Mix until smooth, then add eggs and vanilla extract, stirring until fully incorporated.
Combine Dry Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk together cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet mixture, mixing until just combined.
Fold in Chocolate Chips
Gently fold in the dark chocolate chips until they are evenly distributed throughout the cookie dough.
Shape Cookies
Using a cookie scoop or spoon, drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each cookie as they will spread.
Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are set. The center may look slightly underbaked; it will firm up as it cools.
Cool and Enjoy
Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Enjoy your homemade Chocolate Tahini Cookies with a glass of milk or your favorite beverage!
Pro Tips
- For added texture, try incorporating crushed nuts or coconut flakes into the cookie dough. You can also experiment with different types of chocolate chips, such as milk or white chocolate, for a unique flavor profile.
Storage and Freezing
These Chocolate Tahini Cookies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. If you're looking to extend their freshness, consider freezing them. Simply place the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet until frozen solid, then transfer them to a resealable freezer bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to three months, making them a great make-ahead treat.
When ready to enjoy, remove the desired number of cookies from the freezer and let them thaw at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes. For a freshly baked taste, you can warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes. This will revive their gooey chocolate chips and enhance the flavor sensation.
Serving Suggestions
These cookies are delightful on their own, but you can elevate your serving experience by pairing them with a scoop of vanilla or coffee ice cream for a decadent dessert. The warmth of the cookies combined with the cold ice cream creates a wonderful contrast that’s hard to resist. You could also crumble some cookies over yogurt for an indulgent breakfast or snack option.
For a fun presentation, consider drizzling melted chocolate or a dusting of powdered sugar over the cooled cookies. This not only adds visual appeal but also enhances the chocolate flavor. You can also serve them alongside fresh fruit, such as strawberries or raspberries, for a refreshing complement to the rich taste of chocolate and tahini.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I substitute tahini with another ingredient?
While tahini adds a unique flavor, you can substitute it with peanut butter or almond butter if needed.
→ How should I store these cookies?
Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
→ Can I freeze the cookie dough?
Yes, you can freeze the cookie dough. Scoop the dough onto a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Bake directly from the freezer, adding a couple of minutes to the baking time.
→ What type of chocolate chips should I use?
I recommend using dark chocolate chips for a rich flavor, but semi-sweet or a mix of both can also work well.
Chocolate Tahini Cookies
I absolutely love baking, and these Chocolate Tahini Cookies have quickly become a favorite in our household. The combination of rich chocolate and nutty tahini creates an indulgent flavor sensation that keeps everyone coming back for more. I've experimented with different ratios of ingredients, and I’ve found this combination yields cookies that are incredibly soft in the center yet have just the right amount of chewiness. Whether enjoyed with a cup of coffee or as a delightful treat after dinner, these cookies are simply irresistible.
Created by: Zara Ellington
Recipe Type: Soft Planning
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 12 cookies
What You'll Need
Ingredients
- 1 cup tahini
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup dark chocolate chips
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a large mixing bowl, combine tahini, brown sugar, and granulated sugar. Mix until smooth, then add eggs and vanilla extract, stirring until fully incorporated.
In another bowl, whisk together cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet mixture, mixing until just combined.
Gently fold in the dark chocolate chips until they are evenly distributed throughout the cookie dough.
Using a cookie scoop or spoon, drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each cookie as they will spread.
Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are set. The center may look slightly underbaked; it will firm up as it cools.
Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Extra Tips
- For added texture, try incorporating crushed nuts or coconut flakes into the cookie dough. You can also experiment with different types of chocolate chips, such as milk or white chocolate, for a unique flavor profile.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 180 kcal
- Total Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
- Sodium: 80mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 24g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 16g
- Protein: 4g