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What kind of recipe is it?
Flourless Chocolate Christmas Cookies are a delightful, gluten-free treat that embodies the rich, indulgent flavors of chocolate.
These cookies are characterized by their chewy texture and deep chocolate taste, making them a perfect addition to any holiday cookie platter.
Ideal for those with gluten sensitivities or anyone looking to enjoy a decadent dessert, these cookies are quick to prepare and sure to impress family and friends.
Baking them will elevate your festive gatherings and satisfy chocolate lovers of all ages.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Semisweet chocolate | 8 ounces (about 1 cup, chopped) |
| Granulated sugar | 1 cup |
| Cocoa powder | 1/2 cup |
| Eggs | 2 large |
| Vanilla extract | 1 teaspoon |
| Baking powder | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Salt | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Powdered sugar | For dusting (optional) |
Note:
Make certain to use high-quality semisweet chocolate for the richest flavor and verify all ingredients are at room temperature for ideal mixing results.
Cooking Steps
- Preheat the oven to 175 °C (350 °F) and position an oven rack in the center. Line a baking sheet (approximately 43 x 30 cm or 17 x 12 inches) with parchment paper, making certain it’s flat and sticking down.
- In a heatproof bowl, combine 8 ounces (about 1 cup) of chopped semisweet chocolate with a splash of water (about 15 ml or 1 tablespoon) to create a steam bath. Place the bowl over a pot of simmering water, making sure the bowl doesn’t touch the water. Stir the chocolate until melted and smooth. Remove from heat and allow to cool slightly.
- In a separate large mixing bowl, whisk together 1 cup of granulated sugar, 1/2 cup of cocoa powder, 1/4 teaspoon of baking powder, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt until well combined.
- Beat 2 large eggs in another bowl, then mix in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Combine the egg mixture with the chocolate mixture, stirring until homogeneous.
- Gradually fold the chocolate mixture into the dry ingredients, mixing gently until no dry cocoa powder remains visible and the batter is thick and glossy.
- Allow the batter to rest at room temperature for about 10–15 minutes.
- Using a standard ice cream scoop (about 60 ml or 1/4 cup capacity), scoop the batter onto the prepared baking sheet—spacing them about 5 cm (2 inches) apart, as they’ll spread slightly during baking.
- For an even texture, gently press down each cookie mound with the back of a spoon or spatula until about 1.5 cm (0.6 inches) thick.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 10–12 minutes. The cookies should puff up and develop a cracked top. They should feel slightly firm around the edges but still soft in the center when done (do not overbake), retaining a shiny appearance.
- Remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the cookies cool on the sheet for 5 minutes. Afterward, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely, allowing air to circulate, which will help maintain their texture.
- (Optional) Dust the cooled cookies with powdered sugar for added presentation; a fine mesh sieve works best for even distribution.
- Serve and enjoy or store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. Confirm they’re at room temperature prior to serving for the best texture.
Variations
- Peppermint Mocha Cookies: Add 1/2 teaspoon of peppermint extract to the chocolate mixture and top the cookies with crushed candy canes for a festive twist.
- Nutty Chocolate Cookies: Incorporate 1/2 cup (75 g) of finely chopped nuts (walnuts or pecans) into the batter for added texture and flavor.
- Vegan Chocolate Cookies: Replace the eggs with a flaxseed egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water) and use dairy-free chocolate to create a dairy-free and egg-free version.
- Spicy Chocolate Cookies: Mix in 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper or chili powder to the dry ingredients for a warm kick, balancing the sweetness with a hint of spice.
Tips on plating and presentation
Although it may seem simple to serve cookies right off the baking tray, I find that a little extra effort in plating elevates the experience. First, I love arranging the cookies on a beautiful platter, maybe something festive to complement the holiday spirit.
I often use a cake stand to add height and drama, which really catches the eye. Adding a dusting of powdered sugar on top gives a snowy effect that looks enchanting.
Also, consider garnishing with fresh mint leaves or seasonal berries for a pop of color and freshness. Finally, don’t forget to provide cute serving tongs or a festive dessert fork.
A well-presented plate makes every bite feel special, and it’s sure to impress your guests!
What other dishes can I pair it with?
While beautifully plating your flourless chocolate Christmas cookies can create a visual delight, thinking about what other dishes to serve alongside them enhances the overall holiday experience.
I love pairing these cookies with a rich, creamy peppermint bark cheesecake; its festive flavor beautifully complements the chocolate. For a savory contrast, a warm spinach and artichoke dip with crisp veggies does the trick.
I also enjoy serving a simple charcuterie board filled with assorted cheeses, nuts, and dried fruits that balance the sweetness of the cookies.
Finally, a vibrant winter salad with pomegranate seeds and citrus adds freshness to the table.
Together, these dishes create a sumptuous holiday feast that everyone’s bound to enjoy.
What drinks can I pair it with?
When it comes to pairing drinks with my flourless chocolate Christmas cookies, I love to get creative. A rich cup of hot cocoa is an obvious choice, especially when topped with whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa powder.
If I’m in the mood for something stronger, a bold red wine like a Cabernet Sauvignon complements the cookies’ chocolatey flavor beautifully. For a festive twist, I might choose a spiced holiday cocktail, which adds a warm, aromatic touch.
If you’d rather go non-alcoholic, chai tea or a spiced apple cider works wonders, too. Each of these options enhances the cookie’s melt-in-your-mouth texture while creating a delightful taste experience you’ll remember all season long!
Frequently Asked Questions
Are These Cookies Gluten-Free?
Yes, these cookies are gluten-free! I love how they capture rich chocolate flavor without the flour, making them perfect for anyone avoiding gluten. You won’t miss the flour—I promise they’re delightful! Enjoy!
How Long Do the Cookies Stay Fresh?
These cookies stay fresh for about a week when stored in an airtight container at room temperature. I love baking a batch and enjoying them throughout the week, savoring each chocolaty bite!
Can I Freeze the Cookie Dough?
Yes, you can freeze the cookie dough! I often make extra batches, scoop them onto parchment, and freeze. When I’m ready, I just pop them in the oven. It’s so convenient and saves time!
What Size Should the Cookies Be?
I like to scoop about a tablespoon of dough for each cookie. This size gives them a nice balance, ensuring they’re crispy on the edges and chewy in the center. You’ll love the texture!
Do These Cookies Require Any Special Tools?
You won’t need any special tools for these cookies! I just use a mixing bowl, a spatula, and a baking sheet. It’s that simple! You’ll love how easy they are to make.