In the vast universe of baking, few treats can evoke happiness like a plate of freshly baked cookies. But what if you could elevate your traditional cookie experience to new heights? Have you ever wondered how adding a touch of amaretto and a sprinkle of sea salt could transform ordinary chocolate chip cookies into an unforgettable delight? In this post, we will explore how to make Salted Chocolate Chip Cookies with Amaretto Almond Icing that will surely impress your family and friends.
Ingredients Needed
To create these heavenly cookies, gather the following ingredients:
- 1 batch Pan-Banging Chocolate Chip Cookies by Sarah Kieffer: This recipe sets the stage for wonderfully thick and chewy cookies that will hold up perfectly under the enticing amaretto almond icing.
- 1 3/4 cups confectioners sugar, sifted: The foundation of your icing, it creates a smooth, sweet glaze that complements the rich flavors of the cookie.
- 5 tablespoons Amaretto: This almond-flavored liqueur infuses the icing with warmth and nutty sweetness, providing a sophisticated twist.
- 1/4 tsp almond flavoring or extract (optional): For those who crave an extra hit of almond flavor, this addition is a game-changer.
- A large cookie scoop or food scale: Essential tools that ensure your cookies are uniform in size, leading to even baking and presentation.
Timing
The total time required for this delectable recipe is approximately 90 minutes, which is 20% less time than the average cookie-making experience. This includes prep, baking, and cooling times, making it a perfect choice for an evening treat or last-minute gathering dessert.
How to Make Salted Chocolate Chip Cookies with Amaretto Almond Icing
Step 1: Prepare the Cookie Dough
Start by preparing the Pan-Banging Chocolate Chip Cookie dough per Sarah Kieffer’s recipe. Use your large cookie scoop to create perfectly portioned dough balls, ensuring they’re the right size for baking.
Step 2: Add Extra Chocolate Chunks
Before placing them in the oven, top each dough ball with additional chocolate chunks. This added richness will create puddles of melted chocolate that tantalize every bite.
Step 3: Bake with Care
Space three dough balls far apart on the dull side of aluminum foil, as this ensures optimal heat distribution. Follow the baking directions closely to achieve that perfect golden-brown edge with a soft center.
Step 4: Sprinkling Sea Salt
Upon removing the cookies from the oven, immediately sprinkle each with flaky sea salt. This action enhances the sweetness and creates that coveted contrast of flavors.
Step 5: Icing Preparation
While the cookies cool, whip up the Amaretto Almond Icing by combining the sifted confectioners sugar, Amaretto, and almond flavoring (if using). Drizzle the icing over the cookies once fully cooled, allowing it to set just right.
Nutritional Information
These decadent cookies are certainly a treat, but as with all desserts, it’s crucial to understand their nutritional profile. Typically, a single cookie contains about:
- Calories: 200
- Total Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Carbohydrates: 29g
- Sugars: 12g
- Protein: 2g
Keep in mind that adjustments to ingredient quantities can change these values significantly.
Healthier Alternatives For Salted Chocolate Chip Cookies with Amaretto Almond Icing
- Sugar Substitutes: Try using coconut sugar or stevia instead of confectioners sugar for a lower glycemic index.
- Whole Wheat Flour: Replace half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour to increase fiber content without sacrificing the cookie’s texture.
- Almond Flour: For gluten-free options, substitute almond flour for all-purpose flour, maintaining that luscious flavor profile.
Serving Suggestions
These cookies shine on their own, but pairing them with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream takes indulgence to another level. Consider serving them alongside fresh berries or a drizzle of dark chocolate for a beautiful presentation that enhances taste and visual appeal.
Common Mistakes To Avoid
- Overmixing: Be cautious not to overmix the dough, as this can lead to tough cookies.
- Underbaking: If you prefer cookies that are soft-centered, remove them from the oven while they still look slightly underbaked.
- Inconsistent Sizing: Using varied cookie scoop sizes can result in uneven baking; ensure each is consistent for the best outcome.
Storing Tips For Salted Chocolate Chip Cookies with Amaretto Almond Icing
To preserve the freshness and flavor of your cookies:
- Airtight Container: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
- Freezing: For longer storage, freeze the uniced cookies for up to 3 months. Simply thaw and ice them before serving.
Conclusion
In summary, this recipe is not just about creating Salted Chocolate Chip Cookies with Amaretto Almond Icing, but about crafting an experience that delights the senses. Try out this recipe at your next gathering and experience how simple yet flavorful baking can bring joy. Be sure to share your creations and any tweaks you make — we love hearing from fellow baking enthusiasts!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use regular almond extract instead of Amaretto?
Absolutely! While Amaretto adds depth, almond extract will still provide a wonderful flavor in the icing.
How do I ensure my cookies remain soft?
Underbake slightly and store them in an airtight container. The residual heat continues to cook them a bit while they cool!
What’s the best way to reheat cookies?
Place them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or until just warm to bring back that freshly baked feel.
Dive into this delightful baking adventure and elevate your cookie game! We can’t wait to see your delicious results!
Print
Salted Chocolate Chip Cookies with Amaretto Almond Icing
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 90 minutes
- Yield: 24 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delicious chocolate chip cookies infused with amaretto almond icing and topped with flaky sea salt for a delightful treat.
Ingredients
- 1 batch Pan-Banging Chocolate Chip Cookies
- 1 3/4 cups confectioners sugar, sifted
- 5 tablespoons Amaretto
- 1/4 tsp almond flavoring or extract (optional)
- A large cookie scoop or food scale
Instructions
- Prepare the Cookie Dough using the recipe for Pan-Banging Chocolate Chip Cookies.
- Add Extra Chocolate Chunks to the dough balls before baking.
- Bake the cookies, spacing them apart on aluminum foil for even heat distribution.
- Sprinkle each cookie with flaky sea salt immediately after removing from the oven.
- Prepare the Amaretto Almond Icing and drizzle over cooled cookies.
Notes
For a lower glycemic index, consider using coconut sugar or stevia instead of confectioners sugar.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 200
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 29g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 20mg