Piped Chocolate Butter Cookies

You will love making Piped Chocolate Butter Cookies for various occasions, from holiday gatherings to casual get-togethers. These cookies offer a delightful melt-in-your-mouth texture that is simply irresistible. The rich chocolate flavor combined with a buttery finish makes them a standout treat. Plus, they are easy to prepare and can be customized with toppings like sprinkles or maraschino cherries, making them perfect for gifting or sharing.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With just 9 basic ingredients, this cookie recipe is simple and quick.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of butter and cocoa creates a decadent chocolate taste.
• Versatile Toppings: Customize your cookies with sprinkles or cherries for added flair.
• Perfect for Gifting: These cookies make an excellent gift for friends and family during the holidays.
• No Leavening Required: Enjoy the unique shortbread-like texture without any leavening agents.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start baking, gather your tools and prepare your workspace. Having everything ready will ensure a smooth baking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Piping bag
• Large piping tip
• Baking sheets
• Parchment paper or silicone baking mats
• Mixing bowls
• Handheld mixer or stand mixer

Importance of Each Tool

• Piping Bag: Essential for shaping the cookies into beautiful swirls.
• Large Piping Tip: Creates the ideal size and shape for your cookies.
• Baking Sheets: Provides a flat surface to bake the cookies evenly.
• Mixing Bowls: Keeps ingredients contained while mixing, ensuring even distribution.

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Ingredients

You need just 9 basic ingredients and a large piping tip to make these melt-in-your-mouth chocolate butter cookies. There’s no leavening, so the texture is similar to shortbread cookies. Review recipe Notes before beginning, and I strongly recommend chilling the piped cookies for at least 20–30 minutes before baking.

Ingredients:
– 1 cup (16 Tbsp; 226g) unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
– 3/4 cup (150g) granulated sugar
– 1 large egg, at room temperature
– 1 and 1/2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
– 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour (spooned & leveled)
– 1/3 cup (27g) natural or dutch-process unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 2 Tablespoons (30ml) milk, warm
– 1 teaspoon espresso powder
– 4 ounces (113g) semi-sweet chocolate, finely chopped
– maraschino cherries
– sprinkles or coarse sugar

How to Make Piped Chocolate Butter Cookies

Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Sheets

Make room in your refrigerator for a baking sheet so the shaped cookies can chill for 20–30 minutes. Without chilling, the piped cookies will overspread. If you chill the dough prior to shaping, it may become too cold/stiff to pipe.

Step 2: Line Your Baking Sheets

Line 2–3 large baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats, or leave unlined. If unlined, do not grease the pan.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large bowl, using a handheld mixer or a stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment:
1. Beat the butter on medium-high speed until very soft and creamy, about 2 minutes.
2. Add granulated sugar and beat together on medium-high speed until smooth and creamed, another 2 minutes.
3. Add the egg and vanilla; beat on high speed until combined, about 1 minute.
4. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

On low speed:
1. Beat in flour, cocoa powder, and salt until well mixed.
2. Increase speed to high until completely combined.

Step 5: Prepare Espresso Mixture

Warm milk to about 150°F (66°C)—this should take about 20 seconds in the microwave:
1. Mix in espresso powder until dissolved.
2. Add this mixture to your dough; beat on medium speed until creamy and pipe-able.

Step 6: Pipe Cookies

Add your large piping tip to the piping bag:
1. Spoon a little bit of dough into the piping bag.
2. Pipe swirls or lines on your prepared baking sheet, spacing them about three inches apart.
3. Optionally place a maraschino cherry in each swirl or sprinkle with sprinkles/coarse sugar.

Step 7: Chill Shaped Cookies

Transfer the baking sheet to the refrigerator and chill shaped cookies for at least 20–30 minutes.

Step 8: Preheat Oven

Meanwhile, preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C).

Step 9: Bake Cookies

Bake chilled cookies for about:
– 12–15 minutes, until edges seem set but still maintain their shape.

Step 10: Cool Cookies

Remove from oven; allow cooling on sheet for about:
– 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.

Step 11: Melt Chocolate

Melt chopped chocolate using one of these methods:
– Double boiler method or microwave method—using short intervals of heating until smooth.

Step 12: Dip Cookies

Dip cooled cookies in melted chocolate; top with sprinkles if desired:
Allow chocolate to set at room temperature for about an hour or refrigerate for approximately twenty minutes before serving or storing.

Now you have delicious Piped Chocolate Butter Cookies ready to impress everyone! Enjoy!

How to Serve Piped Chocolate Butter Cookies

These melt-in-your-mouth piped chocolate butter cookies are versatile and can be enjoyed in various delightful ways. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your cookie experience.

With a Hot Beverage

• Coffee: Pair your cookies with a rich cup of coffee for a perfect afternoon treat.
• Hot Chocolate: Enjoy the cookies alongside a warm mug of hot chocolate for an indulgent dessert.

As Part of a Dessert Platter

• Cookie Assortment: Include these cookies in a platter with other varieties, such as sugar cookies or oatmeal raisin, to please all tastes.
• Chocolate Dipped Fruits: Serve with chocolate-dipped strawberries or bananas for a sweet contrast.

For Special Occasions

• Birthday Parties: These festive cookies can be decorated with colorful sprinkles, making them perfect for celebrations.
• Holiday Gatherings: Present them in decorative jars as gifts during the holiday season.

How to Perfect Piped Chocolate Butter Cookies

Achieving the ideal texture and flavor for your piped chocolate butter cookies is easy with the right tips. Follow these suggestions to ensure success every time.

• Chill the Dough: Always chill the piped cookies before baking to maintain their shape and prevent overspreading.
• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure that butter and eggs are at room temperature for easier mixing and better texture.
• Select the Right Piping Tip: Choose a large piping tip to create beautiful swirls without difficulty.
• Add Milk Sparingly: Only add enough warm milk to make the dough pipeable; excessive milk can lead to too much spreading during baking.
• Monitor Baking Time: Keep an eye on your cookies while baking; they should be set but not overbaked for optimal texture.
• Store Properly: Allow your cookies to cool completely before storing in an airtight container to keep them fresh.

Best Side Dishes for Piped Chocolate Butter Cookies

Piped chocolate butter cookies can complement various side dishes, making them even more enjoyable. Here are some ideas to consider pairing with your delicious treats.

1. Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances the richness of the cookies.
2. Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a healthy side that contrasts nicely with the sweetness of the cookies.
3. Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses, especially creamy varieties, creates a delightful flavor pairing with chocolate cookies.
4. Ice Cream Sundae: Top vanilla or chocolate ice cream with crushed cookie pieces for an extra special dessert.
5. Nut Mix: A bowl of spiced or salted nuts provides crunch and savory notes alongside sweet treats.
6. Milkshake: Blend your favorite flavors into a milkshake to enjoy alongside these delectable cookies.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Piped Chocolate Butter Cookies can be a delightful experience, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Ignoring the chilling step: Chilling the piped cookies is crucial to prevent them from overspreading. Make sure to refrigerate them for at least 20-30 minutes before baking.
• Using cold butter: If your butter isn’t softened, it won’t blend well with sugar, affecting the cookie’s texture. Always use butter at room temperature for creamy results.
• Overmixing the dough: Mixing too much can lead to tough cookies. Once you add the flour and cocoa powder, mix just until combined to maintain a tender texture.
• Using incorrect measurements: Baking is precise; using too much or too little of any ingredient can change the outcome. Always measure ingredients accurately using a kitchen scale or measuring cups.
• Not piping correctly: If your dough is too thick, it won’t pipe easily. Start with a small amount and adjust by adding more milk if needed for a smoother consistency.
• Skipping the chocolate coating: While optional, dipping cookies in chocolate adds flavor and visual appeal. Don’t skip this step for an extra touch of indulgence.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store cookies in an airtight container for up to 4 days at room temperature or 1 week in the refrigerator.
• Keep cookies without chocolate or cherries fresh by storing them separately.

Freezing Piped Chocolate Butter Cookies

• Freeze unbaked piped cookies on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 2 months.
• Baked cookies can also be frozen in an airtight container for up to 2 months.

Reheating Piped Chocolate Butter Cookies

• Oven: Preheat to 300°F (150°C). Place cookies on a baking sheet and heat for about 5-7 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat individual cookies for about 10-15 seconds to soften them slightly.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet over low heat, place cookies briefly until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Piped Chocolate Butter Cookies.

Can I use margarine instead of butter?

While margarine can be used, it may alter the taste and texture of your cookies. For best results, stick with unsalted butter.

How do I make my piped chocolate butter cookies more chocolatey?

You can add more cocoa powder or dip them in melted chocolate after baking for an extra chocolate boost.

Why are my cookies spreading too much?

If your dough is too warm or you skip chilling, they will spread excessively. Ensure proper chilling time before baking.

Can I customize these cookies?

Absolutely! Feel free to add nuts, dried fruits, or different types of sprinkles to enhance flavor and presentation.

How do I store leftover piped chocolate butter cookies?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to four days or refrigerate them for longer freshness.

Final Thoughts

These Piped Chocolate Butter Cookies are not just delicious but also versatile enough to suit various tastes. You can easily customize them with toppings or fillings of your choice. Try making them today and enjoy their rich flavor!