Schokoladenplätzchen Chocolate Cookies

As the holiday season approaches, there’s nothing quite like the cozy aroma of freshly baked cookies to fill your home with warmth and cheer. One delectable Austrian treat that never fails to bring joy is Schokoladenplätzchen, or Chocolate Cookies. These delightful cookies are a perfect blend of rich chocolate and buttery goodness, making them a must-have for your Christmas baking repertoire. Whether you enjoy them with a cup of hot cocoa or as a sweet treat for guests, these Chocolate Cookies are sure to impress. Let’s get started on this irresistible recipe!

**Schokoladenplätzchen Chocolate Cookies**

**Ingredients:**
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips
– Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)

**Instructions:**
1. **Preheat** your oven to 350°F (180°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This will prevent the cookies from sticking and make for easy cleanup later.
2. **In a medium bowl**, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt until well combined. Set this dry mixture aside for now.
3. **In a separate large bowl**, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy. This will take about 2-3 minutes with an electric mixer or a little longer by hand.
4. **Add** the egg and vanilla extract to the butter-sugar mixture, beating until smooth and well incorporated.
5. **Gradually** add the dry flour mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until a soft dough forms. Be careful not to overmix as this can make the cookies tough.
6. **Gently fold** in the mini chocolate chips until they are evenly distributed throughout the dough.
7. **Using a cookie scoop** or spoon, portion out the dough and roll it into 1-inch balls. Place the balls on the lined baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
8. **Flatten each ball** slightly with the palm of your hand or the bottom of a glass to create a round cookie shape.
9. **Bake** the cookies in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are set. The cookies may still look slightly soft in the center, but they will firm up as they cool.
10. **Remove** the baking sheet from the oven and allow the cookies to cool on the pan for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
11. **Once cooled**, dust the tops of the Chocolate Cookies with powdered sugar for a festive finish, if desired.
12. **Serve** these delectable Schokoladenplätzchen Chocolate Cookies with a steaming mug of hot cocoa, a glass of cold milk, or as a sweet treat to share with loved ones during the holiday season.

These Chocolate Cookies are a delightful addition to any Christmas gathering, and their rich, chocolatey flavor is sure to please cookie lovers of all ages. Enjoy the process of baking these treats and savor the joy they bring as you share them with family and friends. Happy baking!