Description

These dark chocolate orange cookies combine bold citrus flavor with rich, bittersweet dark chocolate for a soft, chewy treat that’s easy to make and perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale

2 ½ cups all-purpose flour (315g)
¼ cup unsweetened cocoa powder (25g)
1 teaspoon baking soda
½ teaspoon salt
1 cup unsalted butter, softened (226g)
¾ cup granulated sugar (150g)
¾ cup packed brown sugar (165g)
2 large eggs, room temperature
2 tablespoons fresh orange zest
1 tablespoon fresh orange juice
1 ½ cups dark chocolate chunks (70% cacao, chopped, 270g)
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

Instructions

Zest the orange and squeeze out about 1 tablespoon of fresh juice. Set aside. Soften the butter if not already softened.
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt to evenly distribute.
In a large bowl, beat the softened butter with granulated and brown sugars on medium speed until light and fluffy, about 3-5 minutes.
Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then add the orange zest, orange juice, and vanilla extract.
Gradually add the dry flour and cocoa mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Avoid overmixing.
Fold in the dark chocolate chunks evenly using a spatula.
Optional but recommended: chill the dough in the refrigerator for 30-60 minutes to help flavors meld and prevent spreading.
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats.
Use a cookie scoop or spoon to drop dough balls about 2 inches apart on the baking sheets.
Bake for 10-12 minutes until edges look set but centers are still slightly soft.
Let cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Optional: sprinkle a tiny pinch of flaky sea salt on top right after baking for enhanced flavor contrast.

Notes

Use fresh orange zest for the best citrus flavor and avoid the bitter white pith. Chilling the dough is optional but recommended to prevent spreading and deepen flavor. Use large chunks of dark chocolate for melty pockets rather than chips. If desired, sprinkle flaky sea salt on top after baking for a flavor boost. For gluten-free, substitute with a 1-to-1 gluten-free baking flour blend. Vegan version can be made by swapping butter with vegan margarine and eggs with flax eggs.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Category: Dessert
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cookie
Calories: 170
Sugar: 14
Sodium: 80
Fat: 8
Saturated Fat: 5
Carbohydrates: 22
Fiber: 2
Protein: 2

Keywords: dark chocolate orange cookies, chocolate cookies, orange zest cookies, chewy cookies, citrus cookies, easy cookie recipe