Description of this recipe
Kitchen Sink Cookies are the ultimate cookie creation, packed with a delightful assortment of ingredients that make every bite a surprise. These cookies combine sweet and salty flavors, featuring chocolate, nuts, oats, and pretzels, creating a texture that is both chewy and crunchy. They are perfect for sharing, snacking, or indulging in after a long day.
Why you will love this recipe
You will love Kitchen Sink Cookies because they bring together a myriad of flavors and textures that satisfy every craving. Whether you’re a fan of chocolate, nuts, or a little crunch, these cookies have it all. They are easy to make, customizable based on your pantry staples, and perfect for any occasion. Plus, they are a fantastic way to use up leftover ingredients, making them as practical as they are delicious.
Introduction
Cookies are a beloved treat that can evoke nostalgia and comfort. Among the myriad of cookie recipes, Kitchen Sink Cookies stand out for their versatility and abundance of flavors. The name says it all—these cookies are filled with everything but the kitchen sink! Imagine biting into a warm, gooey cookie that bursts with chocolate, the crunch of pretzels, the chewiness of oats, and the richness of nuts. This recipe is not only simple but also allows you to get creative in the kitchen. Let’s dive into the ingredients and preparation of these delightful cookies that are sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, room temperature
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ¾ cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup old-fashioned rolled oats
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 cup chopped dark chocolate (e.g., Hershey’s Dark Chocolate Bars)
- 1 cup sweetened coconut
- 1 cup pecans, chopped
- 1 cup pretzels, broken into pieces
- Sea salt for sprinkling
Preparation:
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare your baking sheets by lining them with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
Step 2: In a large mixing bowl or using a stand mixer, cream together the room temperature unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar. Beat the mixture on medium speed until it becomes pale and fluffy, which should take about 2 minutes.
Step 3: Add the eggs to the butter mixture, one at a time, ensuring each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next. Follow this by mixing in the vanilla extract until well combined.
Step 4: In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, salt, baking soda, and baking powder. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to tough cookies.
Step 5: Stir in the old-fashioned rolled oats, then gently fold in the semi-sweet chocolate chips, chopped dark chocolate, sweetened coconut, chopped pecans, and broken pretzels. The dough will be thick and loaded with goodies!
Using an ice cream scoop or a large spoon, drop generous amounts of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Press each mound of dough down slightly to flatten it.
Bake in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown. Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and sprinkle them lightly with sea salt. Allow them to cool on the baking sheet for 2 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Serving Suggestions:
Kitchen Sink Cookies are delightful on their own, but you can elevate the experience by serving them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of chocolate sauce. They pair wonderfully with a glass of cold milk or a warm cup of coffee. For a festive touch, consider packaging them in a decorative tin as a homemade gift for friends and family.
Tips:
- Feel free to customize the ingredients based on what you have at home. Substitute the pecans with walnuts or almonds, or swap out the coconut for dried fruit like cranberries or raisins.
- For an extra chocolatey treat, add a handful of chocolate chunks on top of the cookies right before baking.
- Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or freeze them for longer storage.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minute
Nutritional Information (per cookie, based on 24 cookies):
- Calories: 210
- Protein: 3g
- Sodium: 150mg
Conclusion
Kitchen Sink Cookies are a delightful treat that brings together a variety of flavors and textures, making them a hit at any gathering. Their versatility allows you to experiment with different ingredients, ensuring that each batch can be unique. With their perfect balance of sweet and salty, these cookies are sure to satisfy your cravings and become a staple in your baking repertoire. So gather your ingredients, preheat the oven, and get ready to enjoy a cookie that truly has it all!
5 Questions and Answers About This Recipe
Q1: Can I substitute the butter with a different fat?
A1: Yes, you can substitute unsalted butter with coconut oil or a vegan butter alternative. Just keep in mind that the flavor and texture may vary slightly.
Q2: How can I make these cookies gluten-free?
A2: To make Kitchen Sink Cookies gluten-free, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Ensure that all other ingredients, such as oats and chocolate, are gluten-free as well.
Q3: Can I make the dough ahead of time?
A3: Absolutely! You can prepare the dough, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, and refrigerate it for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the dough for up to 3 months. Just thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before baking.
Q4: How do I know when the cookies are done?
A4: The cookies are done when the edges are golden brown, and the centers look slightly underbaked. They will continue to firm up as they cool on the baking sheet.
Q5: What can I do if I don’t have all the ingredients?
A5: Kitchen Sink Cookies are highly customizable. Feel free to replace or omit any ingredients you don’t have. The key is to maintain a similar ratio of wet to dry ingredients for the best texture.