Piped Chocolate Butter Cookies

You will love making Piped Chocolate Butter Cookies for any occasion. These delightful cookies are easy to prepare and perfect for sharing at gatherings, holiday celebrations, or just because. With their rich chocolate flavor and melt-in-your-mouth texture, they stand out as a favorite treat. Plus, they are easily customizable with toppings like maraschino cherries or sprinkles, making them fun for everyone!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple Ingredients: You only need 9 basic ingredients to create these delicious cookies.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of cocoa powder and espresso gives these cookies a deep chocolatey taste.
• Customizable Toppings: Add maraschino cherries or sprinkles to make each cookie uniquely yours.
• Perfect for Sharing: With 30 servings, these cookies are ideal for parties or gift-giving.
• Easy to Make: The straightforward recipe allows even novice bakers to create impressive treats.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start baking your Piped Chocolate Butter Cookies, gather the necessary tools and equipment. Having everything ready will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer or handheld mixer
• Large mixing bowl
• Large piping bag with a large piping tip
• Baking sheets
• Parchment paper or silicone baking mats
• Refrigerator

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer or handheld mixer: These make creaming butter and sugar much easier, ensuring a smooth dough.
• Large mixing bowl: A spacious bowl allows you to mix all ingredients thoroughly without spilling.
• Piping bag with large tip: Essential for creating beautiful cookie shapes; the right tip ensures easy piping of the thick dough.

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.

For the Cookies

• 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 Area

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. If unlined, do not grease the pan.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

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

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

On low speed, beat in:
– The all-purpose flour
– The cocoa powder
– The salt

Turn up to high speed until completely combined.

Step 5: Prepare Espresso Mixture

Warm the milk to about 150°F (66°C)—about 20 seconds in the microwave—then mix in the espresso powder. Add this warm espresso-milk mixture into your dough while beating on medium speed until creamy and pipe-able. You may need to add another half tablespoon of milk if too thick.

Step 6: Pipe Cookies onto Baking Sheets

Add your large piping tip to the piping bag:
1. Spoon a small amount of dough into it.
2. Pipe a swirl or line measuring 1–2 inches on your prepared baking sheet.
3. If too thick, return dough to mixing bowl and add more milk if necessary.
4. Continue piping swirls or lines spaced about 3 inches apart.

If desired, place a maraschino cherry in each swirl center or sprinkle with sprinkles/coarse sugar.

Step 7: Chill Cookies

Transfer your baking sheet to the refrigerator and chill shaped cookies for 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 retain shape. Smaller cookies will take closer to 12 minutes.

Step 10: Cool Cookies

Remove from oven; allow cooling on baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them onto a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 11: Melt Chocolate

You can melt the chocolate using either method:
– In a double boiler
– Or in microwave in increments of about 20 seconds until smooth

Once melted:
1. Dip cooled cookies into melted chocolate.
2. Top with sprinkles if desired.
3. Allow chocolate to set completely at room temperature for about an hour or refrigerate for about 20 minutes.

Step 12: Store Your Cookies

Cookies with chocolate or cherries remain fresh in an airtight container at room temperature for up to four days or refrigerated up to one week. Without chocolate/cherries, they last up to one week at room temperature.

Enjoy your homemade Piped Chocolate Butter Cookies!

How to Serve Piped Chocolate Butter Cookies

Piped chocolate butter cookies are delicious and versatile treats that can enhance any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or looking for the perfect snack, here are some serving suggestions to elevate your cookie experience.

With Hot Beverages

• Coffee: Pair your cookies with a cup of freshly brewed coffee for a delightful contrast of flavors.
• Tea: A warm cup of tea complements the buttery texture and chocolate richness beautifully.
• Hot Chocolate: For a chocolate lover’s dream, enjoy these cookies alongside a rich hot chocolate.

As Dessert Platters

• Cookie Assortments: Mix with other cookies like classic sugar cookies or ginger snaps for an inviting dessert platter.
• Chocolate Dipped Fruits: Serve alongside strawberries or bananas dipped in chocolate for an extra treat.
• Cheese Board: Include these cookies on a cheese board paired with creamy cheeses for a sweet and savory combination.

At Celebrations

• Birthday Parties: Decorate with sprinkles or cherries to make them festive and fun.
• Holiday Gatherings: Offer as part of your holiday cookie exchange or dessert spread during festive gatherings.

How to Perfect Piped Chocolate Butter Cookies

Achieving the perfect piped chocolate butter cookies requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure success:

• Chill the Dough: Always chill the piped cookies before baking to maintain their shape and prevent overspreading.
• Use Quality Ingredients: Select high-quality cocoa powder and chocolate for richer flavor in your cookies.
• Piping Tip Size Matters: Choose a large piping tip to create beautiful shapes without straining the dough.
• Monitor Baking Time: Keep an eye on the cookies while baking; they should be set but still soft in the center.
• Store Properly: Ensure you store your cookies in an airtight container to keep them fresh longer.

Best Side Dishes for Piped Chocolate Butter Cookies

Piped chocolate butter cookies can be enjoyed as a standalone treat, but they also pair well with various side dishes. Here are some perfect accompaniments:

1. Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla or chocolate ice cream brings a creamy contrast that enhances the cookie’s texture.
2. Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad adds brightness and balances out the richness of the cookies.
3. Whipped Cream: Serve with dollops of whipped cream for added sweetness and lightness.
4. Caramel Sauce: Drizzling caramel sauce over each cookie creates an indulgent treat that’s hard to resist.
5. Nut Mix: A mix of roasted nuts offers a crunchy texture that complements the softness of the cookies.
6. Yogurt Parfait: Layering these cookies in a yogurt parfait adds crunch and flavor, perfect for breakfast or dessert.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making piped chocolate butter cookies can be delightful, but it’s easy to make mistakes. Here are some common pitfalls and how to avoid them:

• Not Chilling the Dough: Chilling the shaped cookies is essential for achieving the right texture. Without chilling, the cookies will overspread during baking.

• Overmixing the Dough: Overmixing can lead to tough cookies. Mix just until combined after adding flour and cocoa powder.

• Incorrect Oven Temperature: Always preheat your oven properly. An oven that’s too hot or too cold can affect the cookie’s shape and texture.

• Using a Small Piping Tip: Using a small piping tip can make it challenging to pipe the dough smoothly. Opt for a larger tip for easier piping.

• Skipping the Espresso Powder: The espresso powder enhances the chocolate flavor. Don’t skip it, as it adds depth to your cookies.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store piped chocolate butter cookies in an airtight container.
• They can stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.

Freezing Piped Chocolate Butter Cookies

• Place cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
• Transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container; they can last for up to 3 months.

Reheating Piped Chocolate Butter Cookies

• Oven: Preheat to 300°F (150°C) and warm for about 5-10 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat on low power for about 10-15 seconds until just warm.
• Stovetop: Place in a covered pan over low heat for a few minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make Piped Chocolate Butter Cookies less sweet?

You can reduce the sugar by 1/4 cup, but keep in mind that this may affect texture.

Can I customize my Piped Chocolate Butter Cookies?

Absolutely! You can add nuts, different types of chocolate, or spices like cinnamon for unique flavors.

What should I do if my dough is too thick?

If your dough is too thick to pipe, add another 1/2 tablespoon of warm milk gradually until it reaches a creamy consistency.

How long do Piped Chocolate Butter Cookies take to bake?

They generally take about 12-15 minutes at 350°F (177°C) until edges are set.

Can I use margarine instead of butter?

While you can substitute margarine, using unsalted butter yields the best flavor and texture in these cookies.

Final Thoughts

Piped chocolate butter cookies are not only delicious but also versatile. Their melt-in-your-mouth texture makes them perfect for any occasion. Feel free to customize them with your favorite toppings or mix-ins—experimenting is part of the fun! Give this recipe a try and enjoy these delightful treats with family and friends!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Piped Chocolate Butter Cookies

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• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 0 hours
• Yield: About 30 servings 1x

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Description

Indulge in the delightful experience of making Piped Chocolate Butter Cookies, a treat that promises to satisfy your sweet cravings. These cookies boast a rich chocolate flavor and a melt-in-your-mouth texture, making them an irresistible choice for any occasion—be it holiday gatherings, birthday celebrations, or a simple craving for something sweet.

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Ingredients

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• 1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 and 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/3 cup cocoa powder
• 1 teaspoon espresso powder
• 2 tablespoons warm milk
• Optional toppings: maraschino cherries, sprinkles

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats.
2. In a large mixing bowl, cream together softened butter and sugar until smooth. Add egg and vanilla, mixing well.
3. Gradually incorporate flour, cocoa powder, salt, and espresso powder until combined.
4. Add warm milk gradually until dough reaches a pipeable consistency.
5. Transfer dough to a piping bag fitted with a large tip. Pipe desired shapes onto prepared baking sheets.
6. Chill piped cookies in the refrigerator for 20-30 minutes before baking.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes until edges are set but center remains soft.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 12–15 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cookie (approximately 30g)
• Calories: 150
• Sugar: 8g
• Sodium: 30mg
• Fat: 8g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 2g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 17g
• Fiber: <1g
• Protein: 2g
• Cholesterol: 30mg