As the crisp autumn air settles in and leaves turn golden, there’s no better way to celebrate Halloween than with a fun, festive treat. Milk chocolate stuffed Jack-O-Lantern cookies are not only adorable but also incredibly delicious. Soft, chewy cookies are adorned with cheerful jack-o-lantern faces, bringing a playful touch to your holiday baking. The hidden surprise of gooey milk chocolate adds a delightful twist, satisfying your sweet cravings and impressing friends and family alike. Whether you’re hosting a Halloween party, preparing goodie bags, or simply looking for a fun activity to enjoy with your kids, this DIY recipe is sure to bring a smile to your face.
Why You’ll Love This Milk Chocolate Stuffed Jack-O-Lantern Cookies
- Delicious Flavor: Rich milk chocolate perfectly complements the buttery cookie base.
- Festive Appeal: Enjoy cookie designs that are perfect for Halloween-themed gatherings.
- Fun for All Ages: Easy to decorate, making it a great activity for kids and adults.
- Customizable: Swap out the chocolate for your favorite fillings or choose different decorations.
- Quick to Make: Prepared in under an hour, these cookies are perfect for last-minute treats.
Materials
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup milk chocolate chips
- Orange icing (for decoration)
- Black icing (for decoration)
- Parchment paper
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Dough
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until fluffy.
- Beat in the eggs and vanilla extract until well combined.
2. Add the Dry Ingredients
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
3. Shape the Cookies
- Scoop a tablespoon of dough and flatten it slightly.
- Place a teaspoon of milk chocolate chips in the center and cover with another tablespoon of dough.
- Shape into a ball and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake
- Bake for 10-12 minutes or until lightly golden.
- Allow cookies to cool for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.
5. Decorate
- Once cooled, use orange icing to create jack-o-lantern faces on top of the cookies.
- Use black icing to add details like eyes and mouths.
Tips & Variations
- Shape Variations: Instead of traditional cookies, try shaping the dough into other Halloween characters, like ghosts or bats.
- Chocolate Swap: Use dark chocolate or white chocolate for different flavor profiles.
- Add Mix-ins: Include nuts, caramel, or candy corn for added texture and flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make these cookies ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the dough in advance and refrigerate it for up to a week or freeze it for up to three months.
2. What can I use instead of butter?
You can use margarine or a dairy-free butter substitute for a vegan option.
3. Can I use a different type of chocolate?
Absolutely! Feel free to substitute milk chocolate chips with dark chocolate, white chocolate, or even flavored chocolates.
4. How do I store leftover cookies?
Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or in the fridge for longer freshness.
Serving Suggestions or Pairings
Serve these delightful cookies with a glass of cold milk or a warm cup of apple cider for a cozy Halloween treat. They also pair wonderfully with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for an indulgent dessert.
Final Thoughts
Making milk chocolate stuffed Jack-O-Lantern cookies is a fun-filled way to bring the spirit of Halloween into your kitchen. Their delicious taste and charming appearance will delight everyone who tries them. Don’t forget to share your cookie creations or leave a comment below about your experience! Happy baking!
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Milk Chocolate Stuffed Jack-O-Lantern Cookies
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Adorable and delicious milk chocolate stuffed cookies decorated as cheerful jack-o-lanterns, perfect for Halloween festivities.
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup milk chocolate chips
- Orange icing (for decoration)
- Black icing (for decoration)
- Parchment paper
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until fluffy. Beat in the eggs and vanilla extract until well combined.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
- Scoop a tablespoon of dough and flatten it slightly. Place a teaspoon of milk chocolate chips in the center and cover with another tablespoon of dough. Shape into a ball and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes or until lightly golden. Allow cookies to cool for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.
- Once cooled, use orange icing to create jack-o-lantern faces on top of the cookies and black icing to add details like eyes and mouths.
Notes
You can shape the dough into other Halloween characters, use different types of chocolate, and add mix-ins for extra texture and flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 200
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 30mg