Are you ready to dive into the sinister world of baking with a twist? Today, we're unleashing a recipe that's as intriguing as it sounds - Murder Cookies. These cookies are not just about their haunting name; they are a delightful blend of rich flavors and intricate textures, designed to captivate your taste buds. In this guide, we'll walk through the steps to make these cookies, providing insight into why they're named so ominously and what makes them truly deadly.
Ingredients
- 1 cup of unsalted butter, chilled
- 3⁄4 cup of granulated sugar
- 1 1⁄2 cups of all-purpose flour
- 1⁄2 cup of cocoa powder
- 1⁄4 teaspoon of salt
- 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
- 1⁄2 cup of finely chopped dark chocolate
- 1⁄4 cup of espresso powder (optional but adds to the darkness)
Preparation
🍪 Note: Make sure your butter is cold to ensure the cookies remain firm during baking.
Instructions
- Creaming the Butter and Sugar:
- Begin by creaming together the chilled butter and sugar in a mixer until light and fluffy. This step helps in incorporating air which results in a tender cookie texture.
- Adding the Dry Ingredients:
- Sift together the flour, cocoa powder, and salt. Gradually add this mixture to the creamed butter and sugar, mixing at low speed to avoid overworking the dough.
- Enhancing the Flavor:
- Add the vanilla extract and espresso powder if using. Fold in the chopped dark chocolate for that extra decadent bite.
- Forming the Cookies:
- Divide the dough into two equal parts. On a piece of parchment paper, shape each half into a log about 2 inches in diameter. Wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until firm.
- Baking:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Slice the chilled logs into rounds about 1⁄4 inch thick. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the edges are firm. The centers should still be a bit soft as they will continue to cook on the sheet.
- Cooling:
- Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This helps in setting their texture.
Variations
While the base recipe for Murder Cookies is both sinister and irresistible, there’s always room for creativity:
- Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to introduce a subtle heat, which can complement the rich chocolate.
- Salty Delight: Incorporate sea salt flakes on top before baking for a sweet-salty contrast.
- Additional Fillings: Consider adding finely chopped nuts or dried cherries for a different texture and flavor profile.
To summarize, Murder Cookies are an intriguing treat, combining the comfort of a cookie with the daring name that piques curiosity. These cookies offer a deep, rich flavor thanks to the cocoa and dark chocolate, with an optional espresso kick for those dark, intense flavors. Their chilling requirement not only allows for shaping but also contributes to their unique texture - crisp on the edges with a soft center. Experimentation is always welcomed in the kitchen, so feel free to tweak this recipe to suit your own sinister tastes or to surprise guests with a deadly delight.
Why are they called “Murder Cookies”?
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The name “Murder Cookies” reflects their intense, almost overwhelming flavor profile which some describe as so rich, it feels like a delicious assault on the taste buds. It’s all about the dramatic flair and not to be taken literally!
Can I freeze the dough for future baking?
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Absolutely! You can freeze the dough logs after wrapping them tightly. When ready to bake, simply slice and bake from frozen, adding a couple of extra minutes to the baking time.
How do I store these cookies?
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Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week or in the refrigerator for a longer shelf life. They can also be frozen for up to 3 months.
