If you’re ready to take your cookie game to new heights, these Chocolate Sugar Cookies are about to become your latest obsession. Imagine all the classic charm and chewy bite of a perfect sugar cookie, but supercharged with deep, dark cocoa flavor and a touch of molasses richness. And just when you think it can’t get any better, each cookie is finished off with a sparkling sugar crust and—if you’re feeling a little extra—a dreamy chocolate dip. Trust me, your friends and family will be clamoring for the recipe the instant they take a bite.

Chocolate Sugar Cookies Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of these Chocolate Sugar Cookies is how each ingredient plays a starring role, creating a cookie that’s bold, chocolatey, melt-in-your-mouth tender, and delightfully crave-worthy. Here’s what you’ll need, along with why each one truly counts:

Unsalted butter: Adds rich flavor and creates the ultimate soft-yet-chewy texture in every bite.
Dark brown sugar: Brings deep caramel undertones and extra moisture for that irresistible chew.
Granulated sugar: Not only sweetens but also helps with spreading and gives that signature sugar crust.
Large egg: Binds the dough and contributes to a lovely, tender structure.
Vanilla extract: A touch of vanilla always makes the chocolate sing—don’t skip it!
Molasses: The secret ingredient for a hint of warmth and complexity—trust me, it makes a difference.
All-purpose flour: Provides just the right amount of structure to keep your cookies thick and sturdy.
Unsweetened cocoa powder: Expect big cocoa flavor; the darker the powder, the deeper the taste.
Baking soda: Gives just enough lift, making sure your cookies are crackly on top and tender inside.
Salt: A pinch here is essential—it wakes up all the other flavors.
Granulated sugar, for rolling: Gives that classic sparkly finish and a slight crunch to each bite.
Dark or semi-sweet chocolate chips: Perfect for melting and dipping—a rich, glossy finish makes them irresistible.
Coconut or vegetable oil: Just a little oil keeps the melted chocolate silky smooth for coating.

How to Make Chocolate Sugar Cookies

Step 1: Prep Your Baking Sheets and Oven

Let’s get all set up for cookie magic! Preheat your oven to 325°F, then line two large baking sheets with parchment paper. This prevents sticking and helps every Chocolate Sugar Cookie bake up evenly from edge to center—no burnt bottoms here!

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugars

In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, cream together your room-temperature butter, packed dark brown sugar, and granulated sugar. Beat for 2 to 3 minutes until it’s light and fluffy—this aerates the mix and sets the stage for unbeatable cookie texture. Pause to scrape down the sides, making sure no buttery pockets are left behind.

Step 3: Add the Egg and Vanilla

Drop in the egg and vanilla extract. Mix until the batter is smooth and fully combined, then scrape the bowl again to keep everything even. You’re building flavor here, so let the mixer get the job done.

Step 4: Incorporate the Molasses

Trickle in that tablespoon of molasses—this is where the magic deepens. Mix on low just until it vanishes into the batter, giving everything a more robust flavor profile. Give your bowl one last scrape before the dry ingredients join in.

Step 5: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, sifted cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. Whisking not only blends everything evenly but also helps remove any pesky cocoa lumps that could sneak into your dough.

Step 6: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Add your dry mix to the wet ingredients in three parts, mixing until just combined each time. If cocoa powder seems to be going everywhere, drape a large kitchen towel over the mixer–it’s a lifesaver! Scrape down the sides in between, and make sure there are no floury streaks left. You should end up with a luscious chocolate dough with a subtle, dreamy aroma.

Step 7: Portion, Roll, and Sugar-Coat the Dough

Use a large cookie scoop to divide out hefty, bakery-style dough balls (about 1.8 to 2 ounces each). Gently roll each ball between your hands, then coat thoroughly in the reserved granulated sugar. Place the dough balls on your prepared baking sheets, spaced a generous 2 to 3 inches apart. Use your palm or the flat side of a measuring cup to barely flatten the tops—just a gentle press will do the trick. Sprinkle with a touch more sugar for extra sparkle.

Step 8: Bake to Perfection

Bake the cookies on the center rack for 10 to 11 minutes. You’re looking for set edges and cracked, glossy tops. The cookies might seem a little soft, but they’ll firm up as they cool—trust the process! Let them rest on the baking sheets for 10 minutes before moving to a rack. The smell alone will have people circling the kitchen.

Step 9: (Optional) Dip in Chocolate

Now for the fun part: chocolate-dipped glamour! When the cookies are absolutely, completely cool, melt your chocolate chips and oil together in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second bursts, stirring each time, until smooth as silk. Dip one half of every cookie in the chocolate and set on a wire rack. While they’re still tacky, sprinkle if you’d like with chopped nuts or festive sprinkles. Give them about an hour to set at room temperature, or use the fridge if you can’t wait.

How to Serve Chocolate Sugar Cookies

Garnishes

Dress up your Chocolate Sugar Cookies with a handful of sparkly sanding sugar, a dusting of cocoa powder, or a sprinkle of flaky sea salt right after dipping them in chocolate. Or, for a fun pop of color, toss on some rainbow sprinkles or finely chopped nuts while the chocolate is still wet. These finishing touches add a little flourish and make every cookie look bakery-worthy.

Side Dishes

Serve these cookies alongside an ice-cold glass of milk, a hot latte, or even a mug of spiced chai for the ultimate cozy treat. For a festive dessert platter, pair Chocolate Sugar Cookies with fresh berries, a bowl of vanilla ice cream, or crisp biscotti. They play well with almost any accompaniment and are definitely the star of any sweet spread.

Creative Ways to Present

If you want your Chocolate Sugar Cookies to steal the show at your next gathering, stack them in a clear glass jar tied with a ribbon, arrange in a bakery box with parchment dividers, or wrap each cookie in cellophane for edible gifts. Want to be extra-creative? Sandwich a spoonful of marshmallow fluff or ice cream between two cookies for a decadent homemade treat that’s sure to impress.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

To keep your Chocolate Sugar Cookies soft and fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay deliciously chewy for up to 4 days. Place a slice of bread in the container to help stave off dryness—the cookies will absorb just enough moisture to stay perfect, while the bread takes one for the team and dries out first.

Freezing

These cookies freeze exceptionally well, whether baked or unbaked. For dough, scoop and roll as usual, then freeze the balls on a tray before transferring them to a zip-top bag. When a craving hits, bake directly from frozen, just adding an extra minute or two. If you’ve already baked your Chocolate Sugar Cookies, freeze them in a single layer, then move to a bag once firm. Thaw at room temp, and they’ll taste as fresh as the day you made them!

Reheating

If you love a warm, gooey cookie, pop your cooled or thawed Chocolate Sugar Cookies in the microwave for about 10 seconds. This not only revives their soft texture but makes the chocolate extra decadent, especially if you dipped them!

FAQs

Can I use regular cocoa powder instead of dark?

Absolutely! Regular unsweetened cocoa powder works beautifully, though dark cocoa will give your Chocolate Sugar Cookies a richer, more dramatic color and a deeper chocolate flavor. Choose your favorite—it’s delicious either way.

Is it necessary to use molasses?

Molasses adds a special depth and chewiness to these cookies, but if you don’t have any, you can substitute with honey or leave it out altogether. The flavor will be slightly different, but the Chocolate Sugar Cookies will still taste fantastic.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

You sure can! Prepare the dough, scoop your balls, and chill them in the fridge for up to 2 days or freeze them for up to 2 months. This is perfect for when you want fresh cookies without all the prep work.

What type of chocolate is best for dipping?

I love using either dark or semi-sweet chocolate chips for a balanced flavor, but feel free to use milk chocolate if that’s your preference. Adding just a teaspoon of coconut or vegetable oil helps the coating set shiny and smooth.

How do I get perfectly crackly tops?

The secret is in rolling each dough ball in granulated sugar just before baking and not over-flattening them. The sugar coating encourages that gorgeous, classic crackle as the Chocolate Sugar Cookies bake and rise in the oven.

Final Thoughts

If you’re a chocolate lover in search of a new favorite treat, these Chocolate Sugar Cookies are bound to become your go-to recipe any time you want to impress—or just indulge. There’s something so satisfying about their crispy sparkle, intense cocoa bite, and chewy centers. Give this recipe a try, and don’t be surprised if it becomes a regular star in your dessert rotation!

Chocolate Sugar Cookies Recipe

★★★★★

5.1 from 19 reviews

Author: lilan
Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Yield: Makes about 24 cookies 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

Indulge in these rich and decadent Chocolate Sugar Cookies that are perfect for any chocolate lover. These cookies are soft, chewy, and coated with a layer of melted chocolate for an extra special treat.

Instructions

For Cookies: Preheat oven to 325°F. Cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Add egg, vanilla, and molasses. Mix in dry ingredients. Divide dough into balls, roll in sugar, and bake for 10-11 minutes. Allow to cool.
Chocolate Coating: Melt chocolate chips and oil, dip cookies in chocolate, and let them set.

Notes

Wait for cookies to cool completely before dipping in chocolate.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 10-11 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cookie
Calories: 180
Sugar: 12g
Sodium: 110mg
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Unsaturated Fat: 3g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 22g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 2g
Cholesterol: 20mg

Keywords: Chocolate Sugar Cookies, Chocolate Coated Cookies, Dessert Recipe