Salted Chocolate Shortbread Cookies

There’s something incredibly satisfying about a warm plate of freshly baked cookies, especially when those cookies are salted chocolate shortbread. The buttery richness of shortbread combined with the deep flavor of cocoa and a sprinkle of sea salt creates a balance of sweet and savory that is simply irresistible. Whether you’re indulging after a long day or sharing with friends, these cookies are sure to impress.

Top Reasons to Make Salted Chocolate Shortbread Cookies

• Decadent Flavor: The combination of chocolate and sea salt takes these cookies to a whole new level.
• Simple Ingredients: With just a handful of pantry staples, you can whip up a batch at any time.
• Perfect Texture: The shortbread base provides a delightful crumbly texture that melts in your mouth.
• Versatile Treat: These cookies are perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a holiday gathering or a simple afternoon snack.
• Great for Gifting: Package them in a cute box to give as a thoughtful homemade gift.

What Goes In

• 1 cup (156.25g) all-purpose flour: The foundation of our shortbread, providing structure.
• ⅓ cup (28.67g) unsweetened cocoa powder: For that rich chocolate flavor.
• ½ teaspoon baking soda: To help the cookies spread slightly.
• 1 stick (113g) plus 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, at room temperature (11 tablespoons): The star ingredient that gives shortbread its signature richness.
• ¾ cup (146.67g) light brown sugar: Adds moisture and a hint of caramel flavor.
• ¼ cup (50g) granulated sugar: For sweetness and a slight crunch.
• ½ teaspoon fleur de sel or ¼ teaspoon fine sea salt: Enhances flavor and balances the sweetness.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: A classic flavor enhancer that complements the cocoa.

Equipment & Tools

• Mixing bowl: To combine all your ingredients easily.
• Electric mixer: For creaming the butter and sugars smoothly.
• Measuring cups and spoons: To ensure precise ingredient amounts.
• Baking sheet: Where your cookies will bake to perfection.
• Parchment paper: To prevent sticking and for easy cleanup.
• Cookie scoop or tablespoon: For even-sized cookies.
• Wire rack: For cooling your cookies once they’re out of the oven.

Mastering Salted Chocolate Shortbread Cookies: How-To

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your cookies bake evenly and achieve that perfect texture.

Step 2: Prepare Your Baking Sheet

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent the cookies from sticking and to make cleanup a breeze.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, and baking soda. Set aside.

Step 4: Cream Butter and Sugars

In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the room temperature butter, light brown sugar, and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.

Step 5: Add Vanilla and Salt

Mix in the vanilla extract and fleur de sel (or fine sea salt) into the creamed butter and sugar mixture until fully incorporated.

Step 6: Combine Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; the dough should be soft and slightly crumbly.

Step 7: Scoop the Dough

Using a cookie scoop or a tablespoon, portion out the dough and place it onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.

Step 8: Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until the edges are firm but the centers are still soft.

Step 9: Cool and Sprinkle

Remove from the oven and allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. While they are still warm, sprinkle a touch more fleur de sel on top for that extra flavor boost.

Step 10: Enjoy!

Once cooled, dive into your delicious salted chocolate shortbread cookies with your favorite beverage. They are best enjoyed fresh but can also be stored for later.

International Equivalents

• 1 cup all-purpose flour: 125g (UK)
• ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder: 50g (UK)
• 1 stick unsalted butter: 113g (UK)
• 1 cup light brown sugar: 220g (UK)
• 1 cup granulated sugar: 200g (UK)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: 5ml (UK)

Flavor Logic

The beauty of salted chocolate shortbread cookies lies in their flavor profile. The rich, buttery cookie base is perfectly complemented by the deep, chocolatey notes from the cocoa powder. The addition of salt, particularly fleur de sel, elevates each bite by enhancing the sweetness and providing a delightful contrast. This combination makes for a decadent treat that satisfies both sweet and savory cravings, making these cookies irresistible.

Make Ahead Like a Pro

• Chill the Dough: If you want to prepare the dough in advance, wrap it in plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 3 days. When ready to bake, simply scoop and bake as directed.
• Freezing Baked Cookies: These cookies freeze beautifully. Once cooled, place them in an airtight container and store in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature when ready to enjoy.
• Make Cookie Dough Balls: Freeze cookie dough balls on a baking sheet, then transfer to a zip-top bag. Bake straight from the freezer, adding a couple of extra minutes to the baking time.

Questions People Ask

Can I use dark chocolate cocoa powder instead of unsweetened cocoa powder?

Absolutely! Dark chocolate cocoa powder will give your cookies a richer chocolate flavor. Just keep in mind that the cookies may be slightly sweeter, so you may want to reduce the granulated sugar a bit.

What can I substitute for unsalted butter?

You can use salted butter; just reduce the amount of added salt in the recipe. Alternatively, you can use coconut oil or a plant-based butter for a dairy-free option.

How should I store these cookies?

Store your salted chocolate shortbread cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, keep them in the freezer as mentioned above.

Can I add chocolate chips to the dough?

Yes! Adding semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips can enhance the chocolate flavor and provide an extra gooey surprise in each bite. Just fold them in at the end before scooping the dough.

One Pan, More Ideas

• Classic Chocolate Chip Cookies – A timeless favorite that everyone loves.
• Brown Butter Cookies – Rich and nutty, these cookies are a game changer.
• Vegan Peanut Butter Cookies – A delightful twist for peanut butter lovers.
• Chewy Oatmeal Cookies – A heartier option that’s still incredibly delicious.

Wrap-Up

Salted chocolate shortbread cookies are a delightful treat that combines the richness of chocolate with the buttery goodness of shortbread. With simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, you can create a batch that will impress anyone who tries them. Whether you keep them all to yourself or share with friends, these cookies are sure to become a new favorite. So, gather your ingredients, preheat that oven, and let the baking magic happen. Enjoy every last crumb!