There’s nothing quite like the smell of fresh cookies wafting through the house, and these Malted Chocolate Chip Cookies take that experience to a whole new level. As the scent of chocolate and toasted malt fills the air, I can’t help but feel a rush of nostalgia for the days of sipping malted milkshakes at the diner. This recipe unites those beloved flavors into a soft, chewy cookie that promises to be a hit with anyone lucky enough to taste them.
Whether you’re winding down after a long day or celebrating a special occasion, these cookies bring warmth and comfort right from your kitchen. With a delightful combination of rich chocolate chunks and the unique depth of malted milk powder, this recipe transforms a classic into something truly unforgettable. Best of all? They’re quick to whip up, making them perfect for both novice bakers and seasoned chefs looking for a deliciously easy treat. Let’s get baking!
Why will you love Malted Chocolate Chip Cookies?
Irresistible Flavor: The blend of rich chocolate and toasted malt gives these cookies a distinct flavor that’s hard to resist.
Quick and Easy: With straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for bakers of all skill levels.
Chewy Texture: Enjoy a gooey center and crispy edges, making every bite a delightful experience.
Versatile Options: Customize them with nuts or different types of chocolate for a unique twist!
Nostalgic Appeal: These cookies harken back to childhood memories of indulging in sweet, creamy malts, bringing a touch of nostalgia to your baking.
Malted Chocolate Chip Cookies Ingredients
• Here’s everything you’ll need for these delicious cookies!
For the Dough
- Butter-Flavored Shortening – Provides moisture and richness, contributing to a tender texture; can substitute with unsalted butter, but may alter texture and flavor.
- Brown Sugar – Adds sweetness and depth of flavor, enhancing the cookie’s chewiness; light or dark brown sugar can be used interchangeably.
- Malted Milk Powder – The key ingredient for the malt flavor, boosting the cookie’s overall taste; may replace with Ovaltine for a similar flavor.
- Chocolate Syrup – Elevates chocolate flavor and moisture in the dough; could be omitted if you prefer a less sweet cookie.
- Vanilla Extract – Adds aromatic flavor and enhances the overall taste profile.
- Egg (large, at room temperature) – Binds ingredients and adds moisture; ensure it is at room temperature for better emulsification.
- All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure to the cookies; avoid over-measuring to prevent dry cookies.
- Baking Soda – Acts as a leavening agent to help cookies rise.
- Salt – Balances sweetness and enhances flavor.
For the Chocolate Mix
- Semisweet Chocolate Chunks – Adds richness and texture to the cookies; dark chocolate can be substituted for a more intense flavor.
- Milk Chocolate Chips – Offers sweetness and a creamy texture; can be replaced with other types of chocolate if desired.
Embrace the joy of baking with these Malted Chocolate Chip Cookies!
How to Make Malted Chocolate Chip Cookies
-
Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it’s hot enough for baking. This temperature helps achieve that perfect chewy texture and golden-brown color.
-
Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, beat together the butter-flavored shortening, brown sugar, malted milk powder, chocolate syrup, and vanilla extract for about 2 minutes. Add the egg and mix until everything is well combined.
-
Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add this mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring just until incorporated to maintain a tender cookie.
-
Add Chocolate Mix: Gently fold in the semisweet chocolate chunks and milk chocolate chips, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the dough for that delightful chocolatey goodness in every bite.
-
Shape Cookies: Scoop out portions of dough and form them into 2-inch balls. Place these dough balls about 3 inches apart on ungreased baking sheets to allow for spreading during baking.
-
Bake: Slide the baking sheets into your preheated oven and bake for 12-14 minutes. Keep an eye out for that lovely golden brown color on the edges, indicating they’re ready.
-
Cool: Once baked, let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for about 2 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely for the best texture.
Optional: For an extra touch of indulgence, sprinkle a pinch of sea salt on top just before baking.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Malted Chocolate Chip Cookies are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate it in an airtight container, which will help the flavors meld beautifully while maintaining a fresh taste. If you’re eager to bake in large batches, simply shape the cookie dough into balls and freeze them for up to three months. When you’re ready to bake, take the dough out, let it thaw in the refrigerator for several hours or overnight, and then bake as instructed—just add an extra minute or two to the baking time if the dough is still chilled. This way, you’ll always have freshly-baked Malted Chocolate Chip Cookies on hand with minimal effort!
How to Store and Freeze Malted Chocolate Chip Cookies
Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature where they will stay fresh for up to 3 days. Enjoy them warm or at your leisure!
Fridge: For even longer freshness, you can refrigerate the cookies in an airtight container for up to a week. This will slightly firm up their texture.
Freezer: Freeze the cookies or unbaked dough for up to a year. To freeze, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag once solid.
Reheating: To enjoy cookies warm again, microwave individual cookies for about 10-15 seconds or reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5-7 minutes. Treat yourself to these delightful Malted Chocolate Chip Cookies whenever you’d like!
What to Serve with Malted Chocolate Chip Cookies?
Warm, chewy cookies fresh from the oven create the perfect atmosphere for sharing delicious moments with loved ones. Here are some delightful pairings to complement those luscious Malted Chocolate Chip Cookies.
-
Cold Milk:
A classic pairing that enhances the cookie’s flavor while softening those chewy bites, making every mouthful a nostalgic treat. -
Vanilla Ice Cream:
The creaminess of vanilla ice cream contrasts beautifully with the warm cookies, creating a delightful cookie sandwich that’s simply irresistible. -
Fresh Berries:
The tartness of strawberries or raspberries adds a refreshing contrast, balancing the richness of the cookies, perfect for a light dessert. -
Caramel Sauce:
Drizzle over warm cookies for an indulgent touch. The added sweetness and gooey texture are sure to take your cookie experience to another level. -
Hot Chocolate:
For a cozy pairing, enjoy your cookies with a steaming mug of hot chocolate. The combination of flavors and temperatures make for a comforting experience. -
Whipped Cream:
A dollop of fresh whipped cream can lighten the meal and add a luscious topping for a more extravagant dessert experience. -
Chai Latte:
The warm spices of a chai latte create a cozy beverage that harmonizes delightfully with the sweet, malty flavors of your cookies. -
Chocolate Milkshake:
Sip on a thick chocolate milkshake while enjoying your cookies; the creamy sweetness elevates the melt-in-your-mouth goodness to the next level.
Expert Tips for Malted Chocolate Chip Cookies
-
Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your egg and shortening are at room temperature; this helps create a smoother batter and better texture in your cookies.
-
Avoid Overmixing: Mix the dough just until combined after adding the flour; overmixing can lead to tough cookies instead of the desired chewy texture.
-
Chill the Dough: For perfect shaping and texture, refrigerate the dough for 1-3 hours; this helps the cookies maintain their shape while baking.
-
Quality Chocolate Matters: Use high-quality semisweet chocolate chunks for richer flavor. Dark chocolate can provide a more intense taste experience if preferred.
-
Don’t Skip the Salt: A pinch of salt enhances the sweetness of the malted chocolate chip cookies, balancing the flavors perfectly.
Malted Chocolate Chip Cookies Variations
Feel free to explore these creative twists on the classic cookie recipe and make it your own!
-
Dairy-Free: Substitute the butter-flavored shortening with coconut oil and use dairy-free chocolate chips for a delicious, creamy taste without dairy. The result will still be soft and chewy.
-
Nutty Delight: Add chopped pecans or walnuts for a nutty crunch that complements the sweetness of the chocolate. The added texture elevates every bite!
-
Spicy Kick: Mix in a dash of cayenne pepper or espresso powder for an unexpected hint of heat and depth. This variation offers an exciting contrast to the sweetness.
-
Whole Grain: Replace half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a heartier cookie that still tastes indulgent. You’ll enjoy a subtle nutty flavor that adds character.
-
Fruit Infusion: Toss in dried cherries or cranberries for a fruity twist that balances the rich chocolate. The tartness enhances complexity, making each bite even more joyful.
-
Cookie Sandwiches: Use a scoop of your favorite ice cream to turn these cookies into a delightful sandwich dessert. The contrast of warm cookies and cold ice cream is simply irresistible!
-
Chocolate Lovers Version: Swap the semisweet chocolate for dark chocolate chunks and add a tablespoon of cocoa powder to the dough for an extra chocolatey experience. It’s pure bliss for chocolate aficionados.
-
Malted Milkshake Style: Drizzle the cookie dough with malted milkshake syrup before baking for an extra boost of malt flavor. You’ll savor that nostalgic taste in every delectable bite!
Malted Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe FAQs
What type of malted milk powder should I use?
I recommend using any malted milk powder that you enjoy—Horlicks or Carnation are favorites! If you can’t find malted milk powder, Ovaltine is a suitable substitute, offering a similar flavor that works well in baking.
How should I store my Malted Chocolate Chip Cookies?
Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you’d like to extend their freshness, you can refrigerate them for up to a week. Just ensure they’re in a good container to avoid any moisture!
Can I freeze the cookie dough?
Absolutely! To freeze the cookie dough, form it into 2-inch balls and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment. Freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to a year! When you’re ready to bake, simply add a couple of extra minutes to the baking time.
What should I do if my cookies come out flat?
If your cookies spread too much and come out flat, it’s often due to overmixing the dough or using melted shortening. Make sure your ingredients, especially the shortening and egg, are at room temperature. Also, consider chilling the dough for 1-3 hours before baking to help maintain their shape.
Are these cookies safe for pets?
It’s important to keep these cookies away from pets, especially if they contain chocolate, as chocolate can be toxic to dogs and cats. Always stash your freshly baked Malted Chocolate Chip Cookies in a place that pets can’t reach, ensuring they stay safe and sound!
Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
For a gluten-free version of Malted Chocolate Chip Cookies, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Be sure to check that the malted milk powder you’re using is also gluten-free!
Malted Chocolate Chip Cookies with a Chewy Twist
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Beat together the butter-flavored shortening, brown sugar, malted milk powder, chocolate syrup, and vanilla extract for about 2 minutes. Then add the egg and mix until well combined.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add this mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring just until incorporated.
- Gently fold in the semisweet chocolate chunks and milk chocolate chips until evenly distributed.
- Scoop out portions of dough and form them into 2-inch balls, placing them 3 inches apart on ungreased baking sheets.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 12-14 minutes until golden brown on the edges.
- Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for about 2 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
- Optional: Sprinkle a pinch of sea salt on top just before baking.