Almond Amaretto Chocolate Chunk Cookies

If you’re craving a cookie that perfectly balances rich chocolate, nutty almond flavors, and a hint of liqueur, look no further than these mouthwatering Almond Amaretto Chocolate Chunk Cookies. With their chewy centers, crispy edges, and delightful chunks of chocolate, these cookies promise to be a hit at any gathering—or just for a cozy night in. The addition of amaretto and almond extract elevates the flavor profile, making these cookies irresistibly delicious. So, roll up your sleeves and get ready to bake a batch of joy!

What Makes This Recipe Special

These Almond Amaretto Chocolate Chunk Cookies are not your average cookie. The combination of brown sugar and granulated sugar creates a perfectly chewy texture, while the browned butter adds a deep, nutty flavor that will have your taste buds singing. The chopped chocolate melts beautifully, creating gooey pockets of chocolate goodness, and the sliced almonds provide a delightful crunch. Plus, the amaretto gives these cookies a sophisticated twist that makes them perfect for special occasions or a simple indulgence at home.

Ingredient Checklist

• 2 sticks (8 ounces) unsalted butter, melted until browned
• 2 and 1/3 cups all-purpose flour (don’t pack the flour into the measuring cup!)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 cup dark brown sugar, packed
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
• 3 tablespoons amaretto
• 2 large eggs, at room temperature
• 12 ounces semi-sweet OR dark chocolate, roughly chopped into chunks
• 4 ounces sliced almonds

Kitchen Gear Checklist

• Mixing bowls: For combining ingredients.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurement is key.
• Baking sheets: To bake your cookies evenly.
• Parchment paper: For easy cleanup and to prevent sticking.
• Whisk: To mix dry ingredients together.
• Spatula: For folding in chocolate chunks and almonds.

Cooking Almond Amaretto Chocolate Chunk Cookies: The Process

Step 1: Brown the Butter

Begin by melting the unsalted butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Stir frequently until the butter turns a golden brown color and develops a nutty aroma. This typically takes about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, salt, and baking soda. This will ensure that the leavening agent is evenly distributed throughout the flour.

Step 3: Mix the Sugars and Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, combine the browned butter, dark brown sugar, and granulated sugar. Mix until well combined. Then, add the almond extract and amaretto, followed by the eggs. Beat until the mixture is smooth and creamy.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to tough cookies.

Step 5: Fold in Chocolate and Almonds

Gently fold in the chopped chocolate and sliced almonds using a spatula. Ensure that the chocolate chunks and almonds are evenly distributed throughout the dough.

Step 6: Chill the Dough

Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and chill the dough in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. Chilling helps the flavors meld and prevents the cookies from spreading too much while baking.

Step 7: Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper to ensure easy removal of the cookies after baking.

Step 8: Scoop and Bake

Using a cookie scoop or spoon, drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, leaving space between each cookie. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden and the centers are still soft.

Step 9: Cool and Enjoy

Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheets for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy your freshly baked Almond Amaretto Chocolate Chunk Cookies with a glass of milk, a cup of tea, or on their own!

Dietary Customizations

• Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend instead of regular flour.
• Vegan: Substitute the butter with a vegan butter alternative and use flax eggs in place of the regular eggs.
• Nut-Free: Omit the sliced almonds and replace them with sunflower seeds or leave them out altogether.
• Lower Sugar: Reduce the amount of brown and granulated sugar to your preference, but keep in mind this may affect the texture.

What I Learned Testing

• Browned butter truly elevates the flavor! The nutty, caramel-like taste adds depth that regular melted butter simply can’t achieve.
• Chilling the dough is essential for the perfect texture. It prevents the cookies from spreading too much, ensuring they hold their shape.
• Using a mix of semi-sweet and dark chocolate chunks creates an interesting flavor contrast, balancing sweetness with rich chocolate notes.
• Don’t skip the almonds! They add a wonderful crunch and enhance the overall almond flavor of the cookies.

Save for Later: Storage Tips

To keep your Almond Amaretto Chocolate Chunk Cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to preserve their freshness for a longer time, consider freezing them! Place the cooled cookies in a single layer in a freezer-safe container, separating layers with parchment paper. They can be frozen for up to three months. To enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature or pop them in the microwave for a few seconds to warm them up!

Reader Q&A

Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate?

Absolutely! Feel free to use milk chocolate if you prefer a sweeter cookie. Just keep in mind that it will alter the overall flavor profile, making the cookies more sugary.

What if I don’t have amaretto on hand?

If you don’t have amaretto, you can substitute it with almond extract for a similar flavor. However, omit the almond extract from the recipe if you go this route, as it will be too overpowering.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the dough and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days before baking. Alternatively, you can freeze the dough in balls and bake them straight from the freezer, adding a couple of extra minutes to the baking time.

What should I do if my cookies are too flat?

If your cookies turn out too flat, it may be due to overmixing or not chilling the dough long enough. Be sure to mix until just combined and chill the dough properly before baking!

Similar Recipes

• Hazelnut Chocolate Chunk Cookies
• Maple Pecan Cookies
• Brown Butter Oatmeal Raisin Cookies
• Coconut Almond Macaroons

See You at the Table

There’s something truly magical about baking cookies. The aroma wafting through your kitchen, the anticipation while they cool, and the first bite that melts in your mouth—these moments create memories that last a lifetime. So, gather your ingredients and make a batch of these Almond Amaretto Chocolate Chunk Cookies. Whether you’re treating yourself or sharing them with loved ones, these cookies are sure to bring smiles and satisfaction. Happy baking!