Name: Cookies by Pierre Hermé
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: French
Ingredients: 110 grams unsalted butter (softened); 110 grams brown sugar; 100 grams granulated sugar; 1 large egg; ½ teaspoon liquid vanilla; 225 grams all-purpose flour; ½ teaspoon baking powder; A pinch of salt; 175 grams dark chocolate chips

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Cookies by Pierre Hermé

Nothing warms the heart like the scent of freshly baked cookies wafting through the house. Pierre Hermé, a patissier renowned for his exquisite desserts, brings a touch of elegance to our classic cookies with a recipe that’s sure to delight both the novice baker and the seasoned pro. With the perfect balance of chocolate and just the right sweetness, these cookies offer a delightful treat that’s perfect for any occasion.

Why Make This Recipe

Absolutely Irresistible: The combination of dark chocolate and a delicate, buttery cookie base creates a texture and flavor that is simply heavenly.
Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps and common ingredients, you can whip up a batch in no time, making them perfect for last-minute gatherings.
Versatile and Adaptable: Whether enjoyed warm and gooey or cooled and crispy, these cookies can suit any mood or preference.

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Cookies by Pierre Hermé

Ingredients:

110 grams unsalted butter (softened)
110 grams brown sugar (for a deeper molasses flavor, you can use half of this amount)
100 grams granulated sugar (again, feel free to reduce it)
1 large egg
½ teaspoon liquid vanilla
225 grams all-purpose flour
½ teaspoon baking powder
A pinch of salt
175 grams dark chocolate chips

Directions:

Begin by taking your butter out of the refrigerator at least half an hour before you start, so it becomes nice and soft.
Preheat your oven to 170°C (340°F).
In the bowl of a stand mixer, thoroughly mix the softened butter with both types of sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy.
Incorporate the whole egg and then add in the liquid vanilla.
In a separate bowl, mix the flour, baking powder, and salt. Slowly add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients while stirring gently.
Finally, fold in the chocolate chips, which are the star of this cookie show.
Use a cookie scoop to drop dough balls onto baking sheets lined with silicone mats, ensuring they are spaced apart (the dough will spread during baking).
Flatten the dough balls slightly with the back of a spoon to form disks about 10 cm in diameter.
Bake at 170°C for about 10 minutes.
Allow them to cool on a wire rack until they are crisp, or indulge in them while they are still warm and gooey!

Storage Tips for Cookies

Cool Completely: Allow the cookies to cool entirely on a wire rack before storing.
Store in an Airtight Container: Place cookies in a container with a tight-fitting lid.
Optimal Conditions: Store at room temperature for up to 5 days, or refrigerate them for up to 2 weeks.

Serving Suggestions for Cookies

Classic Pairing: Serve these cookies warm with a glass of cold milk or a cup of steaming coffee for the perfect afternoon treat.
Ice Cream Sandwich: Make a decadent ice cream sandwich by placing a scoop of your favorite ice cream between two cookies.
Gift of Cookies: Create a charming gift by arranging cookies in a decorative box or jar tied with a ribbon for special occasions or as a sweet surprise.

Tips to Make Cookies

Use Quality Ingredients: High-quality dark chocolate and real vanilla can elevate the flavor profile of your cookies.
Chill the Dough: For thicker cookies, consider chilling the dough for at least 30 minutes before baking.
Watch the Baking Time: For softer cookies, remove them from the oven when they are just set; they will continue to cook on the baking sheet as they cool.

Variations

Nuts Galore: Add chopped walnuts or pecans to the dough for added crunch.
Different Flavors: Substitute the dark chocolate chips for white chocolate chips or butterscotch chips for a different flavor experience.

FAQs

Q: Can I use margarine instead of butter?
A: While margarine can be used, butter provides a richer flavor and better texture.
Q: How do I keep my cookies chewy?
A: For chewier cookies, slightly underbake them and store them in an airtight container to retain moisture.
Q: Can I freeze these cookies?
Absolutely! You can freeze the dough before baking or freeze baked cookies in a freezer-safe container for up to three months. Thaw at room temperature before enjoying.

In conclusion, these cookies by Pierre Hermé exemplify the delight that baked treats can bring. Their rich chocolate flavor, combined with a soft and buttery texture, makes them a favorite among cookie lovers everywhere. By following this straightforward recipe and using the tips shared, you can create cookies that are not just delicious, but also beautifully crafted with a touch of French pastry magic. Enjoy the baking adventure and relish what you create!

Cookies by Pierre Hermé