When the holiday season rolls around, I find myself longing for the warmth of home-baked treats that bring people together. That’s when I stumbled upon the delightful “Lump of Coal” Bittersweet Chocolate Cookies—a name that sparks curiosity and charm. With their rich, dark color and indulgent flavor, these cookies are the perfect antidote to the typical sugary holiday offerings.
Imagine biting into a cookie that’s both slightly crispy on the outside and wonderfully soft in the center, its dark chocolate chips melting gently with each mouthful. The inclusion of black cocoa powder adds a depth that elevates these cookies from ordinary to extraordinary, making them a surprising showstopper for gatherings or cozy nights in.
Plus, the recipe is surprisingly quick and simple—all you need is a little chill time for the dough! Whether you’re prepping for a get-together or simply treating yourself, these cookies are sure to impress and satisfy even the pickiest of sweet tooth cravings. Let’s dive in and discover how to whip up this delightful holiday treat!
Why are Lump of Coal Cookies a Must-Bake?
Unique Appearance: These cookies boast a striking dark color, instantly intriguing anyone who lays eyes on them.
Decadent Flavor: The combination of bittersweet chocolate and black cocoa powder creates a flavor profile that’s rich yet sophisticated.
Perfect for Grown-Ups: These aren’t your standard sweet cookies; they cater to adult palates looking for something a little less sugary.
Simple Steps: The process is straightforward, requiring minimal prep and only a little chill time for the dough.
Crowd-Pleasing Delight: Whether it’s a holiday gathering or a cozy night in, these cookies are sure to be a hit. Enjoy baking these delicious Lump of Coal Bittersweet Chocolate Cookies that will wow your friends and family!
Lump of Coal Cookie Ingredients
For the Cookie Dough
• Cold unsalted butter – ½ cup, diced into cubes; chilling helps achieve the perfect texture.
• Light brown sugar – 1 cup packed; adds moisture and a rich flavor to the cookies.
• Granulated sugar – ½ cup, plus ⅓ cup extra for coating; the coating creates a delightful crunch.
• Large eggs – 2; provide structure and moisture to the cookie dough.
• Pure vanilla extract – 1 teaspoon; enhances the overall flavor profile.
For the Dry Mix
• Bob’s Red Mill Unbleached White Organic All-Purpose Flour – 2 cups; ensures a light and tender cookie.
• Black cocoa powder – ½ cup; gives these cookies their unique dark color and bittersweet taste.
• Baking powder – 1 ½ teaspoons; helps the cookies rise and become airy.
• Baking soda – ½ teaspoon; contributes to the fluffy texture of the cookies.
• Instant coffee or espresso powder – 1 teaspoon; intensifies the chocolate flavor, making them a true chocolate lover’s dream.
• Kosher salt – 1 teaspoon; balances the sweetness and enhances the flavors.
For the Mix-Ins
• Dark chocolate chips – 2 cups; add gooey richness and make these Lump of Coal cookies absolutely irresistible!
How to Make Lump of Coal Cookies
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Mix the Butters and Sugars: In the bowl of your stand mixer, combine the cold diced butter, packed brown sugar, and granulated sugar. Beat on medium speed for 4-5 minutes until everything is well blended and fluffy. Add in the eggs and vanilla, mixing until everything is fully incorporated and smooth.
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Whisk the Dry Ingredients: In a separate large bowl, whisk together the flour, black cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, instant coffee or espresso powder, and kosher salt. This is where you’ll break up any lumps in the cocoa powder, ensuring a smooth cookie dough.
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Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually mix the dry ingredients into your wet mixture. You’ll want to stir until just about combined. At this point, fold in those delicious dark chocolate chips, mixing gently until they are evenly distributed throughout the dough.
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Shape the Cookie Dough: Divide the cookie dough into 18-20 equal portions, about 3 tablespoons each. Use your hands to reshape them slightly, creating rough edges while keeping the dough balls a bit taller. Arrange these balls on a baking sheet and pop them in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to 1 hour. This chilling step ensures perfectly textured cookies!
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Preheat and Bake: Preheat your oven to 350°F. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper. Before placing the chilled dough balls on the sheets, roll them in the reserved granulated sugar, coating them evenly. Space the cookies about 3 inches apart and bake for 10-12 minutes. They should look set around the edges but still slightly soft in the centers. Allow them to cool slightly on the baking sheet until they are firm enough to remove.
Optional: Dust with powdered sugar just before serving for an extra touch of elegance.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Lump of Coal Cookies
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Chill the Dough: Allowing the cookie dough to chill for at least 30 minutes ensures a thicker cookie and helps maintain its shape while baking.
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Perfect Cookie Size: Measure your dough portions accurately using a tablespoon. This ensures even baking and uniform cookie sizes for a stunning presentation.
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Don’t Overbake: Cookies should be taken out when edges are set but centers are still soft. This prevents them from becoming dry and hard.
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Use Quality Cocoa: Opt for high-quality black cocoa powder for a richer flavor. It makes all the difference in your Lump of Coal cookies.
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Experiment with Add-ins: Feel free to add nuts or switch chocolate chips for caramel bits to customize the cookies to your taste preference.
Lump of Coal Cookie Variations
Feel free to get creative with these delightful cookies—your taste buds will thank you!
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Nutty Twist: Add ½ cup of chopped walnuts or hazelnuts for a crunchy texture and nutty flavor. The warmth and richness of the nuts complement the dark chocolate beautifully.
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Spicy Kick: Incorporate ½ teaspoon of cayenne pepper or chili powder for a subtle heat that contrasts the sweetness. This unexpected twist will have your guests guessing what the secret ingredient is!
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Minty Fresh: Substitute half of the dark chocolate chips with peppermint-flavored chips for a refreshing holiday treat. The cooling notes of mint paired with rich chocolate are simply divine!
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Dairy-Free Delight: Replace the butter with a dairy-free alternative like coconut oil for a vegan version. These cookies still maintain their luscious texture, proving that indulgence doesn’t require dairy.
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Fruit Fusion: Mix in ½ cup of dried cherries or cranberries for a tart burst of flavor. The contrast of sweet and sour creates a delicious harmony in each bite.
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Coffee Lovers: Use espresso powder instead of instant coffee for an even stronger coffee flavor. This change will intensify the chocolate and create a great pick-me-up cookie perfect for afternoon coffee breaks.
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Gluten-Free Option: Replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend for a delicious option anyone can enjoy. Just be sure to check the blend includes a binding agent for the best results.
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Cookie Sandwiches: Make these cookies into delightful sandwiches by adding a layer of your favorite frosting or whipped cream between two cookies. The combination of flavors and textures will elevate your cookie-eating experience!
What to Serve with Lump of Coal Cookies?
Imagine delighting your guests with a wonderful spread that pairs perfectly with these enchanting cookies.
- Rich Hot Chocolate: A cozy, decadent drink that enhances the bittersweet chocolate flavors and offers a warm embrace during the colder months.
Warm and comforting, hot chocolate elevates your cookie experience from delightful to indulgent.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: Creamy and mild, it balances the dark chocolate notes beautifully and adds a delightful contrast in temperature.
Just a scoop, and you’ve turned a simple cookie into an unforgettable dessert!
- Espresso or Coffee: The bold flavors of a strong brew magnify the coffee nuances in the cookies, enhancing your dessert experience with every bite.
Pairing coffee with these cookies makes them a truly grown-up treat, perfect for evening gatherings.
- Chocolate-Covered Strawberries: The fresh, juicy strawberries bring a bright pop of color and flavor, contrasting nicely with the dense cookie.
This pairing creates a beautiful balance, making your dessert table a feast for both the eyes and palate.
- Sea Salt Caramel Sauce: Drizzling this over your cookie adds a sweet-salty element that elevates flavor, tempting any sweet tooth.
A rich and gooey layer can transform these delicious cookies into a dessert fit for a party!
- Milk: Classic and timeless, a chilled glass of milk rounds out this pairing perfectly, complementing the richness of the cookies.
It’s a simple yet heartwarming combo that takes you back to childhood!
Make Ahead Options
These Lump of Coal Bittersweet Chocolate Cookies are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance by shaping it into balls and refrigerating them. To ensure they maintain their incredible texture, keep the dough tightly wrapped in plastic wrap or placed in an airtight container. When you’re ready to bake, simply roll the chilled dough balls in granulated sugar and bake them straight from the fridge, adjusting the baking time as needed for perfect results. This way, you’ll have delicious cookies ready for any occasion with minimal effort!
How to Store and Freeze Lump of Coal Cookies
Room Temperature: Keep your Lump of Coal cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain freshness.
Fridge: If you prefer softer cookies, store them in the fridge for up to a week. Make sure they’re in a tightly sealed container to prevent drying out.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cookie dough balls before baking for up to 3 months. Simply roll them in sugar and freeze on a baking sheet before transferring to an airtight bag.
Reheating: To enjoy cookies from the freezer, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake for an additional 1-2 minutes at 350°F, or microwave for about 10-15 seconds for a warm treat!
Lump of Coal Bittersweet Chocolate Cookies Recipe FAQs
How do I select the right black cocoa powder?
When choosing black cocoa powder, I recommend looking for a high-quality brand that contains no additives. The deeper the color, the more intense the chocolate flavor. Bob’s Red Mill is a fantastic choice, as it provides a rich, flavorful cocoa that elevates your Lump of Coal cookies!
What’s the best way to store these cookies?
To keep your Lump of Coal cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For a softer texture, you can refrigerate them in a tightly sealed container, where they’ll last for about a week. Just remember to let them come to room temperature again before enjoying!
Can I freeze Lump of Coal cookie dough?
Absolutely! Freezing the cookie dough is a great way to have fresh cookies on hand. To freeze, simply roll the cookie dough balls (after shaping them) in sugar and place them on a baking sheet. Freeze them for about 1-2 hours until firm, then transfer to an airtight freezer bag. They’ll keep well for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to bake, just thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake as usual—there’s no need to change the baking time!
What should I do if my cookies spread too much while baking?
If your Lump of Coal cookies spread out more than expected, try chilling the dough for longer next time (up to 2 hours works wonders). This helps firm up the butter in the dough, resulting in thicker cookies. Additionally, ensure you’re using the right measurements for ingredients, especially with flour, as too little can lead to excess spreading!
Are these cookies suitable for people with allergies?
Since the Lump of Coal Bittersweet Chocolate Cookies contain common allergens like eggs, butter, and wheat, they may not be suitable for individuals with allergies to these ingredients. However, they can be made gluten-free by substituting a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend for the all-purpose flour. Always double-check ingredient labels to ensure they meet your dietary needs!
Lump of Coal Bittersweet Chocolate Cookies for Grown-Up Palates
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In the bowl of your stand mixer, combine the cold diced butter, packed brown sugar, and granulated sugar. Beat on medium speed for 4-5 minutes until well blended and fluffy. Add in eggs and vanilla, mixing until smooth.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, black cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, instant coffee or espresso powder, and kosher salt.
- Gradually mix the dry ingredients into your wet mixture and stir until combined. Fold in dark chocolate chips gently.
- Divide the dough into 18-20 portions, about 3 tablespoons each. Reshape them slightly and arrange on a baking sheet. Chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to 1 hour.
- Preheat oven to 350°F. Line baking sheets with parchment. Roll chilled dough balls in reserved granulated sugar, place on sheets, spacing them 3 inches apart, and bake for 10-12 minutes. Cool slightly before removing.