Next, in another bowl, I sift together the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. I find that sifting helps to avoid any lumps and ensures a smooth cookie dough. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; we want the cookies to stay soft and chewy! Now comes the exciting part: fold in the chocolate chips (if you’re using them) and get ready to scoop.
Using a cookie scoop or a large spoon, I scoop out the cookie dough and flatten each scoop slightly in my hand. I take one half of a Cadbury Creme Egg and place it in the center before folding the dough around it to create a ball. It’s like wrapping a little present! Place these on the prepared baking sheet about 2 inches apart and bake for about 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are set. You can smell the chocolatey goodness wafting through the air—the anticipation is almost overwhelming!
Once baked, I let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack. I can’t help but sneak a little taste while they’re still warm, and oh my, you’ll want to do the same! The soft cookie contrasts beautifully with the creamy center that starts to ooze out as you take a bite.
Pro Tips for Best Results
I tested this recipe in three different variations to ensure the perfect balance of flavor and texture. I found that slightly underbaking the cookies to achieve a gooey center works wonders. Just take them out when the edges are firm but the center looks a bit soft; they’ll continue to cook on the baking sheet as they cool down.
If you’re considering making these cookies ahead of time, I recommend chilling the dough in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before baking. This step helps in developing a deeper flavor and prevents the cookies from spreading too much in the oven.
Lastly, don’t forget to experiment with different types of chocolate! I’ve tried using white chocolate chips along with the dark for a delightful twist, and it was a hit in my kitchen. The balance of flavors was divine!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
One mistake I made the first time was not cutting the Creme Eggs correctly. I found that cutting them too small led to them disappearing in the cookie dough once they were baked. Make sure you cut them in half and keep them large enough so that they provide a deliciously gooey center.
Another issue I encountered was overbaking the cookies. It’s tempting to leave them in longer, especially with the variations in ovens. Trust your instinct and pull them out when they look slightly underbaked; they’ll be perfect once cooled. (See the next page below to continue…)