These chocolate butter cookies are the kind of recipe you make once and then keep forever. Simple ingredients, quick preparation, and a result that feels far more indulgent than the effort involved. The buttery base gives them richness, cocoa powder adds depth, and a small amount of cornstarch keeps the texture soft and tender rather than dense.
They are perfect when you want something homemade without committing to a long baking session. Ideal with coffee, tea, or as a small sweet treat during the day, these cookies strike a balance between crisp edges and a delicate, melt-in-the-mouth center.
Ingredients
- 170 g butter, softened
- 160 g icing sugar
- 1⅛ teaspoons baking powder
- 320 g all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons cocoa powder
Instructions
Prepare the oven
Preheat the oven to 170°C. Line a baking tray with parchment paper.
Cream the butter
In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and icing sugar until pale, light, and fluffy. This step is essential for a delicate texture.
Add the dry ingredients
In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, cornstarch, and cocoa powder. Gradually add this mixture to the butter, mixing just until a soft, cohesive dough forms.
Shape the cookies
Form small balls of dough and flatten them slightly on the baking tray. You can also pipe the dough using a star nozzle for a classic butter cookie look. Leave space between cookies, as they will spread slightly.
Bake
Bake for 14 to 16 minutes, until the edges are set but the centers remain soft. Avoid overbaking if you want a tender texture.
Cool
Let the cookies rest on the tray for a few minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Why this recipe works
Icing sugar dissolves smoothly into the butter, giving the cookies a fine, soft crumb. Cornstarch reduces gluten development, keeping the texture light rather than crumbly. Cocoa powder adds chocolate flavor without making the dough heavy, allowing the butter to remain the star.
Storage tips
Store the cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 7 days. They also freeze well for up to 2 months. To refresh, warm briefly in a low oven for a few minutes.
Variations
- Add dark or milk chocolate chips for a double chocolate version
- Mix in finely chopped nuts such as hazelnuts or almonds
- Dip half of each cookie in melted chocolate once cooled
- Add a pinch of cinnamon or espresso powder to enhance the cocoa flavor
Serving ideas
Serve with coffee, black tea, or hot chocolate. They also work well as part of a mixed cookie platter or alongside fresh fruit and lightly sweetened whipped cream.
Final thoughts
These chocolate butter cookies prove that good baking does not need to be complicated. With a short ingredient list and reliable results, they are perfect for everyday baking as well as special occasions. Once you try them, they quickly become one of those dependable recipes you reach for whenever you need something simple, comforting, and chocolatey.
