Each ingredient in Donna Kelce's recipe brings something unique to the table. For instance, the brown sugar provides moistness, while the white sugar gives that lovely crispiness. The choice of flours offers the perfect chewy texture. I remember debating whether to stick with all-purpose flour or try cake flour; the latter indeed made a difference, lightening the texture beautifully.
Espresso powder? That’s the secret weapon. I layer it under the flour. Just a teaspoon packs a punch, enhancing the chocolate without making the cookies taste like coffee. Cinnamon and nutmeg add a cozy warmth—think of them as cozying up with a warm blanket on a chilly night.
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a few baking sheets with parchment paper. Trust me on this; it prevents sticking and helps with easy cleanup, allowing you to focus on the fun part—baking!
In a large mixing bowl, combine the unsalted sweet cream butter, packed brown sugar, and granulated sugar. Using a hand mixer or a stand mixer, cream these ingredients for about two to three minutes, or until the mixture is light and fluffy. The golden color and airy texture tell you that you’re headed toward greatness.
Beat in the egg and the extra yolk one at a time, ensuring they’re fully incorporated before adding the next. This step creates a rich cookie texture. Then, add your tablespoon of pure vanilla extract. The scent alone will have your mouth watering.
In a separate bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, cake flour, baking powder, baking soda mixture, fine sea salt, espresso powder, ground cinnamon, and nutmeg. I often sift them together to eliminate lumps and blend the flavors. Gradually add this dry mixture to your butter and sugar mix. Stir gently until just combined.
Fold in the milk chocolate morsels and white chocolate chunks. If you’re using pecans, mix those in as well. This medley of textures and flavors adds layers to every bite. I can’t tell you how many times I’ve stood there, sneaking spoonfuls of the dough—deliciously intoxicating!
Using a tablespoon or cookie scoop, drop rounded balls of dough onto your prepared baking sheets. Make sure to leave enough space between each ball. They will spread while baking. This is where the anticipation builds!
Slide the trays into the oven and bake for about 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown. The centers may look a bit underbaked; trust the process. They'll firm up as they cool. When you take them out, let them sit on the sheet for a couple of minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.
The magic of baking lies in understanding how each component plays its part:
Feeling adventurous? Here are some variations on this classic recipe:
Creating Donna Kelce's best chocolate chip cookies offers more than just a culinary activity; it’s a bonding experience, a delightful moment of indulgence, and a chance to make memories. These cookies are perfect for any occasion—whether you’re whipping them up for a school bake sale or sharing them at a family gathering. I hope you enjoy this adventure into cookie making as much as I do. The combination of flavors, textures, and that nostalgic pull of warm cookies fresh from the oven creates a joy that's truly hard to beat. So roll up your sleeves and prepare for amazing aromas to fill your kitchen. Your taste buds will thank you!
Embark on this baking journey today and savor every bite!
Imagine a sunny afternoon, the scent of freshly baked cookies wafting through the air. Alongside Donna Kelce's chocolate chip cookies, think about serving a tall glass of cold milk or perhaps a rich dark roast coffee. These cookies are not just a treat; they’re an experience. You can even elevate their charm by pairing them with scoops of vanilla bean ice cream. The warm, gooey cookie melting the chilled ice cream creates a delightful contrast that teases your taste buds in the best way possible.
Servings 4
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
The magic of baking lies in understanding how each component plays its part:
Susan Roberts is a California-based registered dietitian and the creator of Sweet Mama’s Kitchen, where she shares simple, comforting, and nutritious home-cooked recipes. As a busy mom, she focuses on easy, wholesome meals that bring joy to the table without sacrificing flavor. Susan’s passion lies in helping others create delicious, family-friendly dishes with love and confidence.