There’s something extraordinary about combining beloved flavors in unexpected ways. When I first experimented with adding tahini to my classic chocolate chip cookies, I couldn’t believe the transformation that occurred. The rich, nutty essence of tahini beautifully complements the sweetness of chocolate, creating a cookie that’s both familiar and refreshingly unique. Picture sinking your teeth into a treat with crispy edges and a chewy center, all while savoring the delightful balance of sweet and salty.
These Salted Chocolate Chip Tahini Cookies quickly became a household favorite, not just for their taste but for their versatility. Perfect for any occasion—be it a cozy afternoon treat or a crowd-pleasing dessert—they’re easy to whip up while also making a statement. Plus, with variation options that spark creativity, you can customize them to your heart’s content. Let’s dive into this delicious adventure and discover how to create a cookie that’s destined to be your new go-to!
Why are Salted Chocolate Chip Tahini Cookies a must-try?
Elevated Flavor: The infusion of tahini adds a nutty depth that perfectly balances the sweetness of the chocolate, transforming a classic treat into a gourmet delight.
Chewy Perfection: Crispy edges envelop a chewy center, creating a satisfying texture that melts in your mouth.
Baking Made Easy: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for both novice bakers and seasoned chefs.
Customizable Delight: Swap tahini for other nut butters or add extra mix-ins like nuts or dried fruits to make them your own.
Crowd Pleaser: These cookies are sure to impress friends and family, making them an ideal dessert for gatherings and celebrations.
Salted Chocolate Chip Tahini Cookies Ingredients
These ingredients come together to create a uniquely delicious cookie that’s hard to resist!
For the Cookie Dough
- Salted Butter – Provides richness and moisture; unsalted butter can be used with added salt if preferred.
- Tahini – Adds a nutty flavor and richness; can be substituted with almond or peanut butter if you’re looking for a different profile.
- Golden Caster Sugar – Contributes sweetness and helps achieve the right texture; granulated sugar can be a suitable alternative, though sweetness may vary.
- Soft Light Brown Sugar – Adds moisture and a deeper sweetness to the cookies; additional caster sugar mixed with molasses is a possible substitution.
- Vanilla Bean Paste – Enhances overall flavor complexity; vanilla extract can replace it, but the intensity might be lower.
- Egg & Egg Yolk – Binds the ingredients and provides a chewy texture; for vegan options, consider flaxseed meal or a commercial egg replacer.
- Plain Flour – Provides structure to the cookies; whole wheat flour can be used for a healthier twist, but expect a different texture.
- Bicarbonate of Soda – Acts as a leavening agent to create the right texture; no significant substitutions are recommended.
For the Chocolate
- Milk Chocolate & Dark Chocolate – Adds sweetness and richness; chocolate chips can be used instead of chopped chocolate for convenience.
For the Topping
- White & Black Sesame Seeds – Creates a crunchy texture and appealing look; can be replaced with nuts or omitted if desired.
How to Make Salted Chocolate Chip Tahini Cookies
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Prepare Dough: In a large bowl or stand mixer, beat together melted salted butter, tahini, golden caster sugar, brown sugar, vanilla, and a pinch of salt on medium-high speed for about 5-6 minutes, until fluffy.
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Combine Wet and Dry: Add the egg and extra egg yolk, mixing for 2 minutes. Sift in plain flour and bicarbonate of soda, gently mixing until just combined. Fold in both milk and dark chocolate chunks. Chill the dough in the fridge for at least 2 hours.
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Shape Cookies: Preheat your oven to 190°C (170°C for fan ovens). Portion the chilled dough into 12 balls (about 65g each). Roll each ball in white and black sesame seeds, placing them on lined baking trays with enough space for spreading.
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Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 13-15 minutes, or until nicely golden brown around the edges. Immediately tap the tray on the countertop after baking to enhance their chewy texture. Allow the cookies to cool completely on the tray before serving.
Optional: Drizzle with melted chocolate for an extra indulgent touch!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Salted Chocolate Chip Tahini Cookies are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to streamline their baking! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 3 days in advance; simply refrigerate it after mixing. For the best texture and flavor, cover the dough tightly with plastic wrap. Alternatively, if you’re planning further ahead, the dough can be frozen for up to 2 months. When ready to bake, simply thaw overnight in the fridge. To finish, portion the dough, roll in sesame seeds, and bake as directed for delicious, chewy cookies that taste just as fresh! This approach not only saves time but also lets you enjoy homemade treats whenever the craving strikes!
What to Serve with Salted Chocolate Chip Tahini Cookies?
These delightful treats are perfect for creating a cozy meal experience that satisfies both sweet cravings and savory appetites.
- Creamy Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of rich vanilla ice cream will enhance the cookies’ flavors and create a delicious hot-and-cold contrast.
- Herbal Tea: A warm cup of chamomile or mint tea provides a soothing element, complementing the nutty richness of tahini and chocolate.
- Chocolate Milkshake: The indulgent, creamy chocolate shake pairs beautifully, echoing the decadent chocolate flavors found in the cookies.
- Fresh Berries: Juicy strawberries or raspberries add a refreshing touch, balancing the sweetness while introducing a zingy element.
- Espresso or Coffee: A robust cup of coffee enhances the cookies’ flavors, making it a wonderful pairing for an afternoon treat or dessert.
- Cheese Platter: A selection of mild cheeses like brie or goat cheese with crackers brings in a savory contrast, perfect for a sophisticated snack experience.
- Caramel Sauce Drizzle: Drizzling homemade caramel over the cookies adds an extra layer of sweetness and richness, elevating each bite to new heights.
Expert Tips for Salted Chocolate Chip Tahini Cookies
- Chill the Dough: Ensure the dough is chilled for at least 2 hours to prevent excessive spreading during baking; this aids in creating that perfect chewy texture.
- Proper Mixing: Beat the butter and sugars well to incorporate enough air, which is essential for achieving the desired lift in your salted chocolate chip tahini cookies.
- Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on the cookies while baking; they should be lightly golden around the edges but still soft in the center for optimal chewiness.
- Try Variations: Experiment by substituting the tahini with other nut butters or adding spices like cinnamon for a unique twist on this classic recipe.
- Storage Tips: To keep your cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container for up to a week, but they are best enjoyed warm from the oven!
Salted Chocolate Chip Tahini Cookies Variations
You’re just a few delicious changes away from a new twist on this classic cookie recipe!
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Nut-Free: Substitute tahini with sunflower seed butter for a nut-free option that still delivers rich flavor.
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Vegan Delight: Replace the egg and egg yolk with a flaxseed meal mixture (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal + 2.5 tablespoons water) for a vegan-friendly cookie. These still provide a lovely chewiness!
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Whole Grain Boost: Swap plain flour for whole wheat flour to add a hearty texture and nutritional benefits. This adds a delightful nutty flavor too!
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Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder for a surprising heat that beautifully contrasts the sweetness of chocolate.
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Fruity Addition: Toss in some dried cranberries or cherries for a burst of fruity sweetness that complements the nutty tahini.
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Extra Crunch: Use chopped nuts such as walnuts or pecans in place of or alongside the sesame seeds to add a delightful crunch and depth.
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Decadent Drizzle: Drizzle the baked cookies with melted dark chocolate for an irresistible finishing touch that enhances the flavor.
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Zesty Twist: Incorporate orange or lemon zest into the dough for a refreshing citrus note that brightens the overall flavor profile.
How to Store and Freeze Salted Chocolate Chip Tahini Cookies
Room Temperature: Keep baked cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days, ensuring they remain soft and chewy.
Fridge: For longer freshness, place cookies in the refrigerator where they can last up to 1 week. Allow to come to room temperature before enjoying.
Freezer: Freeze cookie dough balls individually on a baking sheet before transferring to a zip-top bag. They can be stored for up to 3 months for an easy future bake.
Reheating: To restore freshness, warm cookies in the oven at 150°C (300°F) for about 5 minutes; it brings back their delightful chewy texture and delicious flavor.
Salted Chocolate Chip Tahini Cookies Recipe FAQs
How do I select ripe ingredients for this recipe?
Absolutely! For the best results, use fresh, high-quality ingredients. When choosing tahini, look for a smooth, creamy texture without any separation. For butter, ensure it’s at room temperature for easy creaming with sugars. Fresh eggs are essential too—check the sell-by date on the carton.
How should I store my baked cookies?
Very! Baked Salted Chocolate Chip Tahini Cookies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. For extra freshness, you can keep them in the fridge for up to a week; just let them come back to room temperature before enjoying for that lovely chewy texture!
Can I freeze the dough or baked cookies?
Of course! To freeze the cookie dough, after portioning into balls, place them on a baking sheet and freeze until firm. Then, transfer them to a zip-top bag for storage. They can stay in the freezer for up to 3 months. Just bake them straight from the freezer, adding a couple of extra minutes to the baking time. For baked cookies, freeze them in layers separated by parchment paper, which helps maintain their sprightly flavor for up to a month.
What if my cookies spread too much while baking?
Don’t worry; it happens to the best of us! If your cookies spread excessively, it’s often due to the dough not being chilled long enough. Make sure to chill the dough for at least 2 hours to prevent this. If you face the problem again, consider adding a little extra flour, up to 1-2 tablespoons, to the mixture before baking, which can provide that extra stability.
Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
Great question! These cookies are vegetarian-friendly, but if you’re making them for a vegan crowd, you can substitute the egg with 1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water (let it sit for 10 minutes to thicken). Additionally, always check the labels for chocolate to avoid any dairy if allergies are a concern. For nut allergies, tahini can be replaced with sunflower seed butter for a similar texture and taste, keeping it allergy-friendly!
Salted Chocolate Chip Tahini Cookies for Chewy Bliss
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare Dough: In a large bowl or stand mixer, beat together melted salted butter, tahini, golden caster sugar, brown sugar, vanilla, and a pinch of salt on medium-high speed for about 5-6 minutes, until fluffy.
- Combine Wet and Dry: Add the egg and extra egg yolk, mixing for 2 minutes. Sift in plain flour and bicarbonate of soda, gently mixing until just combined. Fold in both milk and dark chocolate chunks. Chill the dough in the fridge for at least 2 hours.
- Shape Cookies: Preheat your oven to 190°C (170°C for fan ovens). Portion the chilled dough into 12 balls (about 65g each). Roll each ball in white and black sesame seeds, placing them on lined baking trays with enough space for spreading.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 13-15 minutes, or until nicely golden brown around the edges. Immediately tap the tray on the countertop after baking to enhance their chewy texture. Allow the cookies to cool completely on the tray before serving.