If you’re a fan of rich, indulgent desserts, then you’re going to fall head over heels for these bourbon chocolate chip cookies recipe. When I first made this recipe, I couldn’t stop sneaking bites of the dough and later found myself grabbing seconds (and maybe thirds) of the cookies themselves.
The bourbon adds a warm, slightly smoky flavor that pairs perfectly with the sweet chocolate chunks and buttery cookie base. Trust me, you won’t be able to resist these cookies once you give them a try.
If you loved these bourbon chocolate chip cookies, you might also enjoy trying out these Rolo Cheesecake Bars. They’re creamy, chocolatey, and packed with gooey caramel goodness—perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth!
Ingredients for Bourbon Chocolate Chip Cookies
Getting the right ingredients is key to making these cookies absolutely perfect. Each one has a purpose that brings the recipe together beautifully.
- Butter (1/2 cup, softened)
This gives the cookies their rich and buttery flavor. Make sure it’s softened for easier mixing. - Brown sugar (1/2 cup, packed)
Adds moisture and a subtle molasses flavor for that chewy texture we all love. - Granulated sugar (1/3 cup)
Balances the sweetness and creates those lightly crisp edges. - Egg (1 large)
Acts as a binding agent and helps the cookies rise while baking. - Bourbon (2 tablespoons)
The star of the show! A splash of bourbon adds depth and warmth. - Vanilla extract (2 teaspoons)
Enhances the flavor of the cookie and complements the bourbon. - All-purpose flour (1 1/2 cups)
Provides structure to the cookies. Make sure you measure it correctly to avoid a dry dough. - Cornstarch (2 teaspoons)
A tip for extra soft and tender cookies. - Baking soda (1/2 teaspoon)
Helps the cookies rise and keeps them light and fluffy. - Salt (1/4 teaspoon)
Brings out all the flavors and balances the sweetness. - Semisweet chocolate chunks (1 cup)
These melt into gooey, chocolatey pockets of heaven. You can use chips if you prefer, but chunks elevate the experience.
Note: This recipe makes about 12 large cookies, perfect for sharing (or not!).
Variations You Can Try
One of the best things about baking is how easy it is to customize recipes to suit your preferences or dietary needs. Here are some variations for this recipe:
- Dairy-Free Version
Swap the butter for a plant-based alternative and use dairy-free chocolate chunks. - Sugar-Free Alternative
Use coconut sugar or a sugar substitute like Stevia instead of brown and granulated sugar. - Nutty Twist
Add a handful of chopped pecans or walnuts to complement the bourbon. - Salted Bourbon Cookies
Sprinkle flaky sea salt over the cookies just after baking for a sweet-salty combo. - Espresso Kick
Mix in a teaspoon of instant espresso powder for a mocha-like treat.
Cooking Time
Here’s what you can expect for prep and cooking time with this recipe:
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Chilling Time: 2 hours
- Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
- Total Time: About 2 hours and 30 minutes
Equipment You’ll Need
To make this recipe, you’ll need some basic kitchen tools:
- Stand mixer (with a paddle attachment): Makes creaming the butter and sugar a breeze.
- Mixing bowls (various sizes): For combining dry and wet ingredients separately.
- Cookie scoop or spoon: Helps shape evenly-sized dough balls.
- Baking sheet (parchment-lined): For non-stick, even baking.
- Wire rack: Perfect for cooling the cookies after baking.
How to Make Bourbon Chocolate Chip Cookies
Making these cookies is simple and rewarding. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
Combine Wet Ingredients
Start by creaming the softened butter with granulated and brown sugar in a stand mixer. Mix on medium-high speed until it becomes light and fluffy, which takes about three minutes. Next, add the egg, bourbon, and vanilla extract, and beat until everything is evenly combined.
Mix Dry Ingredients
Separately, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add this to the mixer, reducing the speed to medium-low, until the dough comes together. Be careful not to overmix.
Fold in the Chocolate
Using a spatula, gently fold in the semisweet chocolate chunks or chips. This ensures each cookie gets a gooey chocolatey bite.
Chill the Dough
This step is essential! Roll the dough into balls, place them on a plate, and cover with plastic wrap. Chill in the refrigerator for at least two hours. This helps the cookies maintain their shape while baking.
Bake the Cookies
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the chilled dough balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing them about two inches apart. Bake for 10-12 minutes, just until the edges set and the centers look slightly underdone. Allow them to rest for five minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool.
Additional Tips for The Best Cookies
I’ve made these cookies enough times to pick up a few tricks to make them even better!
- Use room-temperature ingredients for even mixing.
- Don’t skip chilling the dough; it’s the secret to thick, chewy cookies.
- Upgrade your bourbon for a richer, more pronounced flavor.
- Add chocolate chunks on top before baking for a more attractive presentation.
- Avoid overbaking; the cookies should look slightly underdone when you take them out. They’ll finish setting as they cool.
How to Serve Bourbon Chocolate Chip Cookies
Serve these cookies warm for the ultimate gooey center experience. Pair them with a glass of milk, a cup of coffee, or even a cocktail that complements the bourbon. If you’re feeling fancy, drizzle caramel sauce over the top for an extra treat. For a party, arrange them on a platter with a sprinkle of powdered sugar for a bakery-style presentation.
Nutritional Information
These cookies are an indulgence, but here’s a basic breakdown per serving:
- Calories: Approximately 150
- Protein: 2g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fat: 7g
What is the Proper Way to Store Leftovers?
These cookies are perfect for making ahead of time. Here’s how to handle leftovers or prepare in advance:
- Storing at Room Temperature
Keep them in an airtight container for up to a week. - Freezing Dough
Shape the dough into balls, then freeze on a baking sheet. Once solid, transfer to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen, just adding 2-3 extra minutes to the bake time. - Freezing Baked Cookies
Place in a sealed container with parchment paper between layers. Defrost at room temperature when needed.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
If you’re not already convinced to try these, here’s why this recipe stands out:
- Unique Flavor
The warm bourbon elevates the classic cookie to something special. - Easy to Customize
Endless options to tailor the recipe to your taste. - Perfect Texture
A chewy center with slightly crisp edges. - Make-Ahead Friendly
The dough freezes beautifully for whenever a craving strikes. - Crowd-Pleaser
Everyone loves these cookies, from kids to adults!
FAQs
Can I use a different type of alcohol?
Yes, you can substitute bourbon with whiskey or rum, but it will change the flavor profile slightly.
How long does the dough need to chill?
At least two hours is recommended to prevent the cookies from spreading too much during baking.
Can I use whole wheat flour instead of white?
Whole wheat flour will give the cookies a denser texture, but it’s doable. Use half whole wheat and half all-purpose for better results.
What can I use instead of cornstarch?
You can replace it with an equal amount of arrowroot powder or simply omit it, though the cookies might not be as tender.