There’s something irresistible about combining classic chocolate bars with freshly baked cookies. Our Hershey Chocolate Bar Cookie Recipe takes that simple idea and turns it into a deliciously gooey treat that everyone will love. These cookies bring the perfect balance of chewy dough and melted Hershey’s chocolate, making each bite a little moment of joy.
We love how easy this recipe is to make, yet it delivers bakery-quality results right from your oven. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just craving a sweet snack, these cookies are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Let’s dive into creating a batch of warm, chocolatey goodness that’s sure to satisfy all your dessert cravings.
Ingredients
To create the perfect Hershey Chocolate Bar Cookie, we need to gather fresh and high-quality ingredients. Below is a detailed breakdown of each component to ensure our cookies turn out delightfully rich and gooey every time.
Dry Ingredients
Our dry ingredients form the base of the cookie dough, providing structure and flavor depth. Precision in measuring these ingredients is crucial for optimal texture.
- 2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour, sifted
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder, for a chocolatey twist
| Dry Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| All-purpose flour | 2 ¼ cups |
| Baking soda | 1 teaspoon |
| Salt | ½ teaspoon |
| Unsweetened cocoa powder | ½ cup |
Wet Ingredients
Wet ingredients bring moisture and richness to the dough, helping create the soft yet chewy texture that makes these cookies irresistible.
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- ¾ cup packed brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
| Wet Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Unsalted butter | 1 cup | Softened |
| Granulated sugar | ¾ cup | |
| Brown sugar | ¾ cup | Packed |
| Large eggs | 2 | |
| Vanilla extract | 2 teaspoons | Pure |
Hershey Chocolate Bar Pieces
The star of our recipe is the Hershey Chocolate Bar. Chopped into generous pieces, these create pockets of molten chocolate in every bite.
- 2 full Hershey’s Milk Chocolate Bars, cut into chunks
- Optional: additional Hershey bar pieces for topping before baking
| Chocolate Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Hershey’s Milk Chocolate Bar | 2 full bars, chopped into chunks |
| Hershey bar pieces (optional) | For topping |
Equipment Needed
To create our delicious Hershey Chocolate Bar Cookie Recipe with precision and ease, we rely on essential kitchen tools that ensure perfect results every time.
- Mixing Bowls
Use a large bowl for dry ingredients and a separate medium bowl for wet ingredients. This separation helps us combine components evenly and avoid overmixing.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons
Accurate measurements of all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, salt, sugars, and vanilla extract are crucial for a balanced dough. Use standard measuring tools for consistency.
- Electric Mixer or Stand Mixer
We recommend a stand mixer or handheld electric mixer for creaming softened unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy. This contributes to the cookie’s tender crumb.
- Rubber Spatula
A flexible spatula helps us scrape down the bowl edges to incorporate all ingredients smoothly without wasting precious dough.
- Baking Sheet
A large rimmed baking sheet provides ample space for cookie shaping, baking, and heat circulation for even browning.
- Parchment Paper or Silicone Baking Mat
Lining the baking sheet prevents sticking and promotes an even bake while simplifying cleanup.
- Sharp Knife and Cutting Board
Chopping the 2 full Hershey Chocolate Bars into generous chunks is essential to create gooey pockets of chocolate throughout the cookies.
- Cooling Rack
Once baked, we transfer the cookies onto a cooling rack to avoid sogginess, preserving crisp edges and soft centers.
| Equipment | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Mixing Bowls | Separate dry and wet ingredient mixing |
| Measuring Cups/Spoons | Accurate ingredient quantification |
| Electric Mixer | Cream butter and sugars |
| Rubber Spatula | Efficient dough mixing and scraping |
| Baking Sheet | Baking cookies evenly |
| Parchment Paper/Silicone Mat | Non-stick surface and easy cleanup |
| Knife and Cutting Board | Chop Hershey Chocolate Bars |
| Cooling Rack | Cool cookies without moisture buildup |
Let’s ensure our workstation is fully equipped before starting—this preparation makes the baking process smooth and our Hershey Chocolate Bar Cookies irresistibly perfect.
Prep Work
Getting everything ready before mixing is key to baking the perfect Hershey Chocolate Bar Cookies. Let’s focus on preparation steps that ensure smooth assembly and baking.
Preparing the Hershey Chocolate Bars
We start by chopping the Hershey Chocolate Bars into chunky pieces to create those irresistible pockets of melted chocolate in each cookie. Use a sharp knife and sturdy cutting board for clean cuts and even-sized chunks. Aim for about 1/2 inch pieces to balance distribution and melting. Reserve some chopped pieces to sprinkle over the cookie tops before baking for an extra chocolate boost.
| Task | Details |
|---|---|
| Number of Bars | 2 full Hershey Chocolate Bars |
| Chop Size | Approximately 1/2 inch chunks |
| Tools | Sharp knife, cutting board |
| Extra Tip | Reserve extra pieces for topping |
Pro Tip: Work slowly cutting the chocolate bars to prevent crumbling and ensure the chunks remain distinct during baking.
Preheating the Oven
We must preheat the oven to the precise temperature to guarantee even baking—no undercooked centers or overdone edges. Set the oven to 350°F (175°C) about 15 minutes before baking. This ensures the oven reaches an optimal temperature for the cookies to spread perfectly and bake to a soft, chewy texture.
| Oven Temperature | Time to Preheat |
|---|---|
| 350°F (175°C) | 15 minutes before baking starts |
Reminder: Always use an oven thermometer if your oven tends to run hot or cold to maintain accuracy.
Preparing the Baking Sheets
Proper preparation of baking sheets is essential for even baking and hassle-free removal of our Hershey Chocolate Bar Cookies. We recommend lining large rimmed baking sheets with either parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. This prevents sticking, promotes even heat distribution, and makes cleanup effortless.
| Baking Sheet Prep | Recommended Materials |
|---|---|
| Non-stick Lining | Parchment paper or silicone mat |
| Sheet Type | Large rimmed baking sheet |
After lining, place the sheets on the center oven rack for consistent heat exposure.
Tip: Avoid greasing the parchment paper or silicone mat to keep the cookie texture perfect and avoid spreading too much.
Instructions
Follow these detailed steps to craft our Hershey Chocolate Bar Cookie dough perfectly, incorporate chunks for irresistible melty bites, and portion for even baking and ideal texture.
Making the Cookie Dough
- Cream the Butter and Sugars
In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to cream together 1 cup softened unsalted butter, ¾ cup granulated sugar, and ¾ cup packed brown sugar on medium speed. Beat for 3-4 minutes until the mixture is light and fluffy.
- Add Eggs and Vanilla
Beat in 2 large eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated. Add 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract and mix until smooth.
- Combine Dry Ingredients Separately
In another bowl, whisk together:
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| All-purpose flour | 2 ¼ cups |
| Baking soda | 1 teaspoon |
| Salt | ½ teaspoon |
| Unsweetened cocoa powder | ½ cup |
- Incorporate Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry mix into the wet ingredients on low speed. Beat just until combined and no flour streaks remain to avoid overmixing and tough cookies.
Incorporating the Hershey Chocolate Bar Pieces
- Chop the Hershey Bars
Using a sharp knife, chop 2 full Hershey Chocolate Bars into roughly ½ inch chunks. Reserve about ¼ cup for topping later.
- Fold Chocolate Chunks Gently
Using a rubber spatula, gently fold the chopped chocolate pieces into the cookie dough until evenly distributed. This ensures delicious pockets of molten chocolate in every bite.
Portioning the Dough
- Prepare Baking Sheet
Line a large rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. Avoid greasing the surface to maintain cookie texture.
- Scoop the Dough
Use a cookie scoop or tablespoon to portion dough balls about 2 tablespoons (1 inch diameter) each.
- Add Reserved Chocolate Chunks
Place the dough balls onto the baking sheet 2 inches apart. Press a few reserved chocolate chunks gently onto the top of each ball for a visually enticing, glossy finish.
- Ready for Baking
Place the tray in the oven preheated to 350°F (175°C) and bake as directed for perfect gooey cookies.
Directions for Baking
Baking Hershey Chocolate Bar Cookies to perfection requires attention to the right time, temperature, and cooling techniques. Let’s walk through each crucial step to achieve those irresistibly gooey and chocolatey cookies.
Baking Time and Temperature
To get that perfect balance of a soft center and slightly crisp edges, we bake our Hershey Chocolate Bar Cookies at 350°F (175°C). This temperature allows the cookies to bake evenly without burning the chocolate chunks.
Our ideal baking time is:
| Oven Temperature | Baking Time |
|---|---|
| 350°F (175°C) | 10 to 12 minutes |
We recommend setting a timer for 10 minutes initially, then checking closely to avoid overbaking. This timeframe softens the dough while melting the Hershey Chocolate Bar chunks into luscious pockets of chocolate delight.
Checking for Doneness
To know when our cookies are perfectly baked:
- Look for edges that are set and slightly golden.
- Notice the centers should still appear a little soft and slightly undercooked.
- When gently touched, cookies feel firm on the edges but yield slightly in the middle.
“The residual heat will continue baking the cookies after removal from the oven, preserving that gooey center.“
Avoid overbaking to keep the signature chewy texture encapsulating the Hershey chocolate chunks.
Cooling the Cookies
Allow the cookies to rest on the baking sheet for 5 minutes after removing them from the oven. This step lets the cookies firm up just enough for easier handling while maintaining softness inside.
Then transfer them to a cooling rack to cool completely. This prevents excess steam from making the bottoms soggy and keeps the texture just right.
Cooling times:
| Stage | Time |
|---|---|
| On baking sheet | 5 minutes |
| On cooling rack | 10 to 15 minutes |
Careful cooling is essential to fully enjoy the Hershey Chocolate Bar Cookie’s melty chocolate pockets and tender crumb.
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
To keep our Hershey Chocolate Bar Cookies fresh and gooey for as long as possible, proper make-ahead and storage practices are essential. Let’s explore how to prepare and store these cookies to maintain their signature melt-in-your-mouth texture and rich chocolate flavor.
Make-Ahead Preparation
- Chill the Dough: Prepare the cookie dough up to the mixing step, then cover it tightly with plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight. Chilling the dough helps the flavors meld and prevents excessive spreading during baking, resulting in thicker, chewier cookies.
- Portion Ahead: Scoop dough balls onto a parchment-lined baking sheet and freeze them uncovered for 1 hour. Then transfer the frozen dough balls into an airtight container or zip-top freezer bag. This allows us to bake fresh cookies on-demand without extra prep time.
Storage Guidelines
| Storage Method | Duration | Instructions | Texture Preservation |
|---|---|---|---|
| Room Temperature | 2 days | Store in an airtight container at room temperature. | Cookies remain soft with slight firmness. |
| Refrigeration | 5 to 7 days | Place cookies in an airtight container or wrap tightly. | Keeps cookies moist and extends freshness. |
| Freezing | Up to 3 months | Store in a freezer-safe airtight container or bag. Thaw at room temperature before serving. | Maintains freshness and gooey centers. |
Reheating Tips
When ready to enjoy stored cookies, gently reheat them to restore that freshly baked warmth and melty texture. Place cookies on a microwave-safe dish and warm for 10 to 15 seconds or reheat in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5 minutes. This quick reheating recreates the luxurious chocolate pockets and the soft crumb we love.
“Pro tip: Adding a slice of bread in your cookie container helps retain moisture and keep cookies soft longer.”
By following these make-ahead and storage tips, we can savor the indulgent Hershey Chocolate Bar Cookie experience anytime we crave a decadent, chocolatey delight.
Serving Suggestions
To elevate our Hershey Chocolate Bar Cookie experience, thoughtful serving ideas can highlight its rich, gooey texture and deep chocolate flavor. Here are some perfected ways to enjoy these scrumptious treats:
Warm and Fresh From the Oven
Serve the cookies warm right after cooling on the rack. This preserves the luscious pockets of melted Hershey chocolate, offering a melt-in-your-mouth sensation. Use a spatula to gently transfer the cookies and pair them with:
- A glass of cold milk for a classic combination
- A scoop of vanilla or chocolate ice cream for an indulgent dessert
Creative Dessert Presentation
Transform the cookies into decadent desserts:
- Cookie Sandwiches: Spread whipped cream or peanut butter between two cookies for a satisfying hand-held delight
- Chocolate Drizzle: Melt additional Hershey chocolate bars and drizzle over the cookies for extra richness
- Topped with Fresh Fruit: Add sliced strawberries or bananas atop to balance the chocolate’s intensity with natural sweetness
Party and Gifting Ideas
Our cookies are perfect for sharing and gifting:
- Place them in decorative boxes lined with parchment paper to keep freshness intact
- Arrange them on a platter with assorted nuts and candies for buffet-style serving
- Wrap individually in clear cellophane with a ribbon for charming party favors
Optimal Serving Temperature Chart
| Serving Style | Temperature | Description | Accompaniment Suggestions |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fresh from Oven | ~110°F (43°C) | Warm and gooey center | Cold milk, ice cream |
| Room Temperature | 70°F (21°C) | Slightly firm yet tender | Coffee, hot chocolate |
| Refrigerated | 40°F (4°C) | Chewy and dense texture | Cream cheese frosting, fruit slices |
“Serving our Hershey Chocolate Bar Cookies slightly warm enhances their moistened pockets of chocolate with a tender crumb that melts easily on the tongue.”
By trying these Serving Suggestions we can transform simple homemade cookies into memorable treats that dazzle family and friends alike.
Conclusion
These Hershey Chocolate Bar Cookies bring together simplicity and indulgence in every bite. With just a few quality ingredients and the right techniques, we can create bakery-worthy treats that melt in your mouth.
Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or a cozy night in, these cookies deliver rich chocolatey goodness that never disappoints. Plus, the make-ahead and storage tips make it easy to enjoy them anytime.
Let’s keep sharing and savoring these delightful cookies that turn any moment into something sweet and memorable.
Frequently Asked Questions
What ingredients are needed to make Hershey Chocolate Bar Cookies?
You need all-purpose flour, baking soda, salt, unsweetened cocoa powder, unsalted butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, pure vanilla extract, and two full Hershey Chocolate Bars chopped into chunks.
How do I prepare the Hershey Chocolate Bars for the recipe?
Chop the Hershey Chocolate Bars into ½ inch chunks to create gooey pockets of chocolate. Reserve some pieces to press on top of the cookies before baking for a decorative finish.
What temperature and time should I bake the cookies?
Bake the cookies at 350°F (175°C) for 10 to 12 minutes until the edges are set and lightly golden, while the centers remain soft and gooey.
How should I cool the cookies after baking?
Let the cookies rest on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer them to a cooling rack for 10 to 15 minutes to keep the chocolate melty and the texture tender.
Can I prepare the dough ahead of time?
Yes, chill the dough for at least 2 hours or overnight to enhance the flavor and reduce spreading. You can also freeze portioned dough balls for fresh baking later.
How do I store the Hershey Chocolate Bar Cookies?
Store cookies at room temperature for up to 2 days, in the refrigerator for 5 to 7 days, or freeze them for up to 3 months. Add a slice of bread in the container to keep them moist.
What kitchen tools are essential for baking these cookies?
You will need mixing bowls, measuring cups and spoons, an electric mixer or stand mixer, a rubber spatula, a large rimmed baking sheet, parchment paper or silicone mats, a sharp knife, cutting board, and a cooling rack.
What are the best ways to serve these cookies?
Serve warm right after baking for a melty chocolate experience, paired with cold milk or ice cream. Try creative presentations like cookie sandwiches or with drizzled chocolate. They also make great gifts when attractively packaged.