Gooey Chocolate Fudge Cookies: A Decadent, Chewy Delight

These gooey chocolate fudge cookies are the ultimate indulgence for chocolate lovers. With a soft, fudgy center and slightly crispy edges, each bite melts in your mouth. Made with cocoa powder and melted chocolate, these cookies provide a rich, deep flavor. While decadent, they also offer health benefits from dark chocolate and a boost of energy from natural sugars, making them a perfect treat for any occasion.

Ingredients (Makes 20-24 Cookies)

• 1 cup (150g) all-purpose flour
• ½ cup (50g) unsweetened cocoa powder
• ½ tsp baking soda
• ¼ tsp salt
• ½ cup (115g) unsalted butter, melted
• 1 cup (200g) brown sugar
• ½ cup (100g) granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup (180g) dark chocolate chunks or chips
• Optional: Sea salt for sprinkling

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven:

Preheat your oven to 175°C (350°F) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.

2. Mix Dry Ingredients:

In a bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.

3. Prepare the Wet Mixture:

1. In a large bowl, whisk the melted butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until smooth.
2. Add the eggs and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined.

4. Combine and Fold in Chocolate:

1. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined.
2. Fold in the dark chocolate chunks or chips.

5. Shape and Bake:

1. Scoop tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, leaving space between each cookie.
2. Bake for 10-12 minutes until the edges are set, but the center remains soft and gooey.

6. Cool and Serve:

Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. If desired, sprinkle with sea salt for added flavor.

Nutritional Information (Per Cookie)

• Calories: 180 kcal
• Protein: 3 g
• Carbohydrates: 24 g
• Fat: 9 g
• Sugar: 16 g
• Fiber: 2 g

Health Benefits of Gooey Chocolate Fudge Cookies

1. Antioxidant Power from Dark Chocolate:
   Dark chocolate is rich in flavonoids, which help reduce inflammation and improve heart health.
2. Mood Enhancer:
   Chocolate stimulates the release of serotonin and endorphins, improving mood and reducing stress.
3. Energy Boost from Natural Sugars:
   The combination of sugars provides a quick source of energy, making these cookies a great pick-me-up.
4. Better Fats for Heart Health:
   Using unsalted butter provides essential fats that support healthy cholesterol levels.
5. Cocoa for Brain Function:
   Cocoa contains theobromine, which enhances brain function and alertness.

Tips for Perfect Cookies

• Chill the dough: For thicker cookies, chill the dough for 30 minutes before baking.
• Don’t overbake: The key to gooey cookies is removing them from the oven while the center is still soft.
• Storage: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days or freeze for longer shelf life.

These Gooey Chocolate Fudge Cookies are the perfect combination of indulgence and comfort. Their rich chocolate flavor, chewy texture, and hint of sea salt make them irresistible. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or simply to satisfy a chocolate craving, these cookies are sure to impress!