Chocolate Sugar Cookies Recipe

Combine deep cocoa flavor with a sweet glaze for festive homemade treats.

By Sneha Tete, Integrated MA, Certified Relationship Coach
Created on

Introduction to Chocolate Sugar Cookies

Chocolate sugar cookies are a delightful treat that combines the richness of chocolate with the classic sweetness of sugar cookies. This recipe, inspired by The Pioneer Woman, incorporates unsweetened cocoa powder for a deep chocolate flavor and powdered sugar for a sweet finish. The cookies are topped with a simple yet elegant icing made from powdered sugar and egg whites, perfect for decorating with sanding sugar.

Ingredients for the Cookies

IngredientQuantity
Flour1 1/2 cups
Unsweetened Cocoa Powder1/2 cup
Kosher Salt1/2 tsp.
Salted Butter1 1/2 sticks
Powdered Sugar1 1/2 cups
Egg1 large
Vanilla Extract1 tsp.

Ingredients for the Icing

IngredientQuantity
Powdered Sugar1 lb.
Egg Whites2 large
Water2 tsp.
Sanding SugarFor decorating

Instructions for the Cookies

  1. Step 1: Prepare the Dough – Whisk together flour, cocoa powder, and salt in a medium bowl. In a large bowl, beat butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy. Add the egg and vanilla extract, beating until combined. Gradually incorporate the flour mixture until fully combined.
  2. Step 2: Chill the Dough – Form the dough into a rectangle and wrap in plastic wrap. Refrigerate until firm, at least 1 hour.
  3. Step 3: Roll and Cut the Cookies – Cut the dough in half. Roll out each piece to about ¼ inch thickness on a lightly floured parchment paper. Slide the dough onto a baking sheet and freeze for about 10 minutes. Repeat with the other piece of dough. Cut out cookies with desired shapes.
  4. Step 4: Bake the Cookies – Arrange the cutouts 2 inches apart on parchment-lined baking sheets. Freeze until firm, about 15 minutes. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for 12 to 14 minutes or until crisp.
  5. Step 5: Cool the Cookies – Let the cookies cool completely on the baking sheets.

Instructions for the Icing

  1. Step 1: Prepare the Icing – Beat powdered sugar and egg whites in a large bowl with a mixer on low speed. Gradually add water until the icing is pipable.
  2. Step 2: Decorate the Cookies – Transfer the icing to a piping bag fitted with a small round tip. Pipe designs onto the cooled cookies and sprinkle with sanding sugar immediately.
  3. Step 3: Set the Icing – Let the icing set for about 1 hour before serving.

Tips for Decorating

Decorating with sanding sugar adds a beautiful sparkle to the cookies. You can also experiment with different piping techniques for unique designs.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: What can I use instead of unsweetened cocoa powder?

A: You can use sweetened cocoa powder, but you may need to adjust the amount of powdered sugar in the cookies to balance the flavor.

Q: How long do these cookies store?

A: Baked cookies can be stored at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Undecorated cookies can also be frozen for up to 2 months.

Q: Can I make the icing ahead of time?

A: It’s best to make the icing just before decorating, as it can become too thick if left for too long. However, you can prepare the powdered sugar and egg whites mixture ahead of time and adjust its consistency with water when ready to use.

Conclusion

This chocolate sugar cookie recipe from The Pioneer Woman offers a delightful combination of flavors and textures perfect for any occasion. With its rich chocolate taste and elegant icing, these cookies are sure to impress both kids and adults alike.

Sneha Tete
Sneha TeteBeauty & Lifestyle Writer
Sneha is a relationships and lifestyle writer with a strong foundation in applied linguistics and certified training in relationship coaching. She brings over five years of writing experience to thebridalbox, crafting thoughtful, research-driven content that empowers readers to build healthier relationships, boost emotional well-being, and embrace holistic living.

Read full bio of Sneha Tete