🧂 Sweet, Salty, & Irresistible: Gourmet Chocolate Chip Pretzel Cookies Recipe

🧂 Sweet, Salty, & Irresistible: Gourmet Chocolate Chip Pretzel Cookies Recipe

There’s something magical about the combination of sweet and salty, and these Gourmet Pretzel Chocolate Chip Cookies with Sea Salt are the ultimate indulgence. Imagine biting into a golden-brown cookie with a slightly crisp edge, a soft and chewy center, and a satisfying crunch from crushed pretzels and dark chocolate chips. Topped with a light sprinkle of coarse sea salt, these cookies are a symphony of flavors and textures that will leave you craving more. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner, this recipe is designed to impress and delight. Let’s dive into why these cookies are a must-try!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These cookies aren’t just your average chocolate chip cookies. They’re a gourmet twist on a classic, combining the richness of dark chocolate, the crunch of pretzels, and the perfect balance of sweet and salty. Here’s why you’ll love them:

• Perfect Texture: Crispy edges, chewy centers, and crunchy pretzel pieces create a delightful contrast.

• Sweet and Salty: The coarse sea salt enhances the flavors, making every bite irresistible.

• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, even novice bakers can master this recipe.

• Crowd-Pleaser: These cookies are perfect for parties, gifts, or a cozy night in with a glass of milk.

Tools You’ll Need

Before we get started, make sure you have these essential tools on hand:

1. Stand Mixer: A stand mixer makes creaming butter and sugar a breeze. Check out this highly-rated KitchenAid Stand Mixer.

2. Baking Sheets: Quality baking sheets ensure even baking. These non-stick baking sheets are a great option.

3. Parchment Paper: Prevent sticking and make cleanup easy with parchment paper. Grab a roll here.

4. Cookie Scoop: For evenly sized cookies, a cookie scoop is a must. This stainless steel scoop is perfect.

5. Cooling Rack: Let your cookies cool evenly on a sturdy cooling rack. This set is highly recommended.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to make these gourmet cookies:

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened

• 1 cup granulated sugar

• 1 cup brown sugar, packed

• 2 large eggs

• 2 tsp pure vanilla extract

• 3 cups all-purpose flour

• 1 tsp baking soda

• 1/2 tsp baking powder

• 1/2 tsp salt

• 1 1/2 cups dark chocolate chips (Ghirardelli Dark Chocolate Chips are my go-to.

• 1 cup crushed pretzel pieces (Snyder’s Pretzels work perfectly.

• Coarse sea salt for sprinkling (Maldon Sea Salt is ideal.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Bake Time: 12 minutes | Total Time: 27 minutes

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line your baking sheets with parchment paper.

2. Cream Butter and Sugars: In your stand mixer, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.

3. Add Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract.

4. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.

5. Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.

6. Fold in Chocolate and Pretzels: Gently fold in the dark chocolate chips and crushed pretzel pieces.

7. Scoop the Dough: Use a cookie scoop to portion the dough onto the prepared baking sheets, leaving space between each cookie.

8. Sprinkle with Sea Salt: Lightly sprinkle each cookie with coarse sea salt.

9. Bake: Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown but the centers are still soft.

10. Cool: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack.

Tips for Perfect Cookies

1. Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your butter and eggs are at room temperature for even mixing.

2. Don’t Overmix: Overmixing the dough can lead to tough cookies. Mix until just combined.

3. Chill the Dough: If the dough feels too soft, chill it for 15-20 minutes before scooping.

4. Watch the Bake Time: Every oven is different, so keep an eye on your cookies to avoid overbaking.

Variations to Try

1. White Chocolate Pretzel Cookies: Swap dark chocolate chips for white chocolate chips for a sweeter twist.

2. Peanut Butter Pretzel Cookies: Add 1/2 cup of peanut butter to the dough for a nutty flavor.

3. S’mores Pretzel Cookies: Mix in mini marshmallows and graham cracker pieces for a campfire-inspired treat.

Why These Cookies Stand Out

What sets these cookies apart is the perfect harmony of flavors and textures. The dark chocolate chips add richness, the pretzels provide a satisfying crunch, and the sea salt elevates the entire experience. These cookies are not just a dessert—they’re an experience.

Storing and Serving Suggestions

• Storing: Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze the dough or baked cookies for up to 3 months.

• Serving: Serve these cookies warm with a glass of cold milk for the ultimate indulgence. They’re also perfect for gifting or sharing at gatherings.

Final Thoughts

These Gourmet Pretzel Chocolate Chip Cookies with Sea Salt are a game-changer. They’re easy to make, incredibly delicious, and sure to impress anyone who tries them. Whether you’re baking for yourself or sharing with loved ones, these cookies are a guaranteed hit. So, what are you waiting for? Grab your ingredients and start baking today!

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