Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, or using a hand mixer, beat the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar together on medium-high speed for 1-2 minutes until the mixture is light and fluffy.½ cup unsalted butter, ½ cup packed light brown sugar, ¼ cup granulated sugar
- Add the softened cream cheese and continue to beat for another 2 minutes until the mixture is pale and fluffy.2 oz brick-style cream cheese
- Beat in the egg until fully incorporated. Then, mix in the vanilla extract and instant espresso powder.1 large egg, 1 teaspoon instant espresso powder, 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
- In a separate bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt.1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour, 2 teaspoons cornstarch, ½ cup unsweetened cocoa, 1 teaspoon baking soda, ¼ teaspoon salt
- With the mixer on low speed, gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined and a dough forms.
- Switch to a spatula and fold in the milk chocolate chips until they are evenly distributed throughout the dough.12 oz milk chocolate chips
- Cover the bowl and chill the cookie dough in the refrigerator for a minimum of 30 minutes, or up to 3-4 hours.
- When ready to bake, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats.
- Scoop the dough into 2-tablespoon-sized mounds and place them on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- Bake for 10-11 minutes. The cookies will look puffy and soft in the center with set edges.
- Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 4-5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
Pro Tips for Success: Ensure all refrigerated ingredients (butter, cream cheese, egg) are at room temperature for a smooth, creamy dough. Do not skip the chilling step—it is essential for thick, chewy cookies. The espresso powder deepens the chocolate flavor without tasting like coffee. For perfectly round cookies, you can use the 'pan banging' method: if cookies aren't spreading enough, lightly bang the hot baking sheet on the counter a few times around the 8-minute mark.
