I absolutely adore Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Cups! There’s something magical about that rich, gooey cookie dough encased in a silky chocolate shell. This treat not only satisfies my sweet tooth but also brings back fond memories of baking with my mom as a kid. We would mix up a batch of cookie dough and sneak spoonfuls right from the bowl—because who could resist that heavenly combination of butter, sugar, and chocolate? It was like a rite of passage! Fast forward to today, and this recipe has become a staple in my home for movie nights and spontaneous gatherings.
What I love most about these Cookie Dough Cups is that they’re incredibly easy to make and they hit the spot every time! Whether you’re trying to impress friends or simply indulging yourself, these baby cups will definitely do the trick. Plus, they’re no-bake, making them perfect for those hot summer days when you don’t want to turn on the oven. Let’s get started on this lip-smacking treat!
What’s in Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Cups?
Chocolate Chips: The star of the show! I prefer semi-sweet chocolate chips for that classic flavor, but feel free to get creative with dark or milk chocolate if that’s your jam!
Butter: Unsalted butter gives the cookie dough its rich, creamy texture. Make sure it’s at room temperature for easy mixing.
Brown Sugar: For that caramel-like sweetness! I always use light brown sugar for a more subtle flavor.
Vanilla Extract: Just a splash of vanilla adds warmth and depth to the dough. It’s like a hug in a bite!
Flour: All-purpose flour is essential here, but make sure you heat-treat it to kill any bacteria. Safe and sound!
Salt: A pinch of salt enhances the flavor and balances the sweetness beautifully.
Chocolate Shell: For the coating, I use melting chocolate or chocolate bark for a glossy finish. It’s simple to work with and sets up nicely!
Is Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Cups Good for You?
Now, let’s be real—while these Cookie Dough Cups are sheer bliss, they’re not exactly health food. But hey, everything in moderation, right? Here’s a quick rundown of the health aspects:
Chocolate Chips: Packed with antioxidants, dark chocolate can offer some heart health benefits. Just don’t go overboard!
Butter: Rich in fat, butter is definitely something to enjoy sparingly. But hey, it’s all about balance.
Brown Sugar: While it does provide energy, it’s still sugar. So, be mindful of how many you indulge in!
Flour: If you’re looking to make these a bit healthier, you can swap regular flour for whole wheat or gluten-free alternatives (just remember the heat-treating!).
Ingredients List
This recipe serves about 12 delightful cups.
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips (for the shell)
– ½ cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– ¾ cup brown sugar, packed
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup all-purpose flour (heat-treated)
– ½ teaspoon salt
– ½ cup semi-sweet chocolate chips (for dough)
– ½ cup melting chocolate or chocolate bark (for coating)
How to Make Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Cups?
1. **Prep Your Molds:** Start by lining a muffin tin with paper liners or using silicone molds for easy removal. This is an essential step!
2. **Melt the Chocolate:** In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the 1 cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until completely smooth.
3. **Coat Molds:** Using a spoon, coat the insides of your molds with the melted chocolate. Aim for an even layer. I usually do about 2 layers for a thicker shell. Place in the fridge to set for about 15 minutes.
4. **Make the Cookie Dough:** In a mixing bowl, combine the softened butter and brown sugar. Beat until fluffy and creamy. Mix in the vanilla extract, followed by the flour and salt. Fold in the ½ cup of chocolate chips.
5. **Fill the Cups:** Once the chocolate shell has set, take the molds out of the fridge. Spoon the cookie dough mixture into each mold, pressing gently to pack it down.
6. **Final Chocolate Layer:** Melt the chocolate bark or melting chocolate according to package instructions. Spoon the melted chocolate over the cookie dough to cover it completely.
7. **Set and Chill:** Pop the molds back in the fridge for at least 30 minutes, or until the chocolate has hardened.
8. **Enjoy:** Once set, remove the cups from their molds, peel off the liners, and get ready to dig in!
Sweet Tips & Variations
– **Heathier Alternatives:** Consider using coconut oil instead of butter, or incorporate nut butter for a twist!
– **Extra Crunch:** Add some chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts to the cookie dough for added texture.
– **Flavor Infusions:** Play around with the extracts; almond extract can be a fantastic addition!
– **Storing:** These cups can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for about a week—or in the freezer for even longer (if they last that long!).
I hope you try these Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Cups soon! They’re a total crowd-pleaser, and I promise, once you take that first bite, the creamy cookie dough encased in chocolate will have you beaming from ear to ear. Feel free to share how they turn out; I’d love to hear your thoughts and any creative twists you add! Enjoy!
