I’ve been experimenting with festive recipes, and I stumbled upon a gem: the Dark Chocolate Vegan Christmas Fruit Cake Cookie made with 60% cocoa. This cookie manages to balance rich chocolate with a delightful medley of fruits and nuts, making it a perfect treat for the holidays. Curious about how to elevate this dessert and make it shine at your gatherings? Let’s explore the details together.
What kind of recipe is it?
The Dark Chocolate Vegan Cookie is a delightful treat perfect for those seeking a guilt-free indulgence without sacrificing flavor.
This recipe boasts rich dark chocolate, blended with wholesome, plant-based ingredients, making it not only vegan but also a healthier dessert option.
With a chewy texture and a hint of sweetness, these cookies cater to vegans, health-conscious eaters, and chocolate lovers alike.
Baking them offers an opportunity to satisfy cravings while enjoying a nutritious snack, ideal for any occasion or simply as a tasty reward.
Preparation Time
| Recipe Detail | Description |
|---|---|
| Difficulty | Easy |
| Preparation Time | 15 minutes |
| Number of Servings | 12 cookies |
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| All-Purpose Flour | 1 cup (120g) |
| Unsweetened Cocoa Powder | 1/2 cup (50g) |
| Baking Soda | 1 tsp |
| Salt | 1/4 tsp |
| Coconut Sugar | 3/4 cup (150g) |
| Coconut Oil | 1/3 cup (80ml), melted |
| Maple Syrup | 1/4 cup (60ml) |
| Vanilla Extract | 1 tsp |
| Dark Vegan Chocolate Chips | 1/2 cup (90g) |
| Non-Dairy Milk | 3-4 tbsp (45-60ml) |
Make sure all ingredients are measured accurately for the best results in the recipe.
Essential Kitchen Equipment
| Tool/Equipment | Purpose | Alternative Option |
|---|---|---|
| Mixing Bowls (Large and Medium) | Used for combining dry and wet ingredients. The large bowl is ideal for mixing all ingredients, while the medium bowl can be used for measuring dry ingredients separately. | Any large heatproof bowl can suffice |
| Measuring Cups (Dry and Liquid) | Ensures accurate measurements of dry (flour, sugar) and liquid (oil, syrup) ingredients essential for achieving the right cookie texture. | Use a kitchen scale for precise weight |
| Measuring Spoons | Used for measuring small quantities of ingredients like baking soda and vanilla extract. | Small cup or a shot glass can work |
| Stand Mixer or Hand Mixer | Helps to thoroughly blend the ingredients and achieve a fluffy texture by incorporating air. | A whisk can be used for manual mixing, though it requires more effort |
| Rubber Spatula | Great for scraping down the sides of the bowl while mixing and folding in the chocolate chips. | A regular spoon might work in a pinch |
| Wooden Spoon | Used for mixing dough and incorporating all ingredients together thoroughly. | Any sturdy spoon can be substituted |
| Baking Sheets (2-3) | Provides a flat surface for baking cookies evenly. It’s advisable to have extra sheets for simultaneous baking. | Reusable aluminum foil or a flat tray |
| Parchment Paper or Silicone Mats | Prevents cookies from sticking to the baking sheets and ensures even cooking. | Grease the baking sheets with oil instead |
| Cookie Scoop or Spoon | Used for portioning out uniform cookie dough balls to ensure even baking. | A tablespoon can be used for scooping |
| Cooling Rack | Allows cookies to cool evenly after baking, preventing sogginess from steam accumulation. | Place cookies on a plate or rack if unavailable |
| Oven Thermometer | Ensures that your oven is at the right temperature for baking to ensure cookies bake evenly. | A regular thermometer can be used, but it may not be as precise |
Cooking Steps
6. Combine Ingredients: Gradually fold the dry mixture into the wet mixture using a rubber spatula until just combined.
Don’t overmix. Stir in 100 g (1 cup) of dark chocolate chips until evenly distributed.
7. Portion Cookie Dough: Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, portion out approximately 30 g (2 tablespoons) of dough for each cookie.
Place the dough balls onto the lined baking sheets, spacing them about 5 cm (2 inches) apart.
8. Bake Cookies: Place the baking sheets in the preheated oven.
Bake for 10-12 minutes until the edges appear set and the tops look slightly cracked. You can check for doneness by observing the aroma and the texture, which should be firm yet slightly soft in the center.
9. Cool Cookies: Remove the baking sheets from the oven and let the cookies cool on the sheets for 5 minutes.
Then, transfer them to a cooling rack to cool completely, about 15 minutes. This will prevent steam accumulation and ensure a crisp texture.
10. Resting: Allow the cookies to rest after cooling.
This enhances flavor and texture—don’t skip this step.
11. Storage: Store completely cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days for optimal freshness.
Variations
- Nutty Delight: Add 50 g (1/2 cup) of chopped walnuts or pecans for a crunchy texture and nutty flavor.
- Spicy Cinnamon: Incorporate 1 tsp of ground cinnamon and a pinch of cayenne pepper for a warm, spicy twist.
- Peanut Butter Swirl: Mix in 50 g (1/4 cup) of smooth peanut butter into the wet mixture for extra creaminess and protein.
- Gluten-Free Option: Substitute regular flour with 120 g (1 cup) of gluten-free all-purpose flour blend to accommodate gluten-sensitive eaters.
- Oatmeal Chocolate Chip: Add 80 g (1 cup) of rolled oats for added chewiness and heartiness.
- Mint Chocolate: Mix in 1 tsp of peppermint extract to the wet ingredients and use mint-flavored dark chocolate chips for a refreshing flavor.
- Seasonal Pumpkin Spice: Fold in 100 g (1/2 cup) of canned pumpkin puree and 1 tsp of pumpkin pie spice for a fall-inspired cookie.
- Air Fryer Method: Shape cookie dough balls and cook in an air fryer at 160°C (320°F) for 8-10 minutes for a quicker, healthier version.
Tips on plating and presentation
Although I love baking dark chocolate vegan cookies, I know that how you present them can elevate the experience.
For a stunning display, I focus on color contrast, serving the dark cookies on a light platter. I also add festive garnishes like pomegranate seeds or a sprinkle of coconut flakes, which not only enhance the visual appeal but also add a delightful touch!
What other dishes can I pair it with?
Serving dark chocolate vegan cookies on a beautiful platter is just the beginning; pairing them with complementary dishes can enhance the overall experience.
I love the festive pairings of spiced nuts or a fruit compote. These flavor combinations add texture and brightness, contrasting beautifully with the rich chocolate.
Consider serving alongside a slice of orange zest cake for a delightful holiday treat!
What drinks can I pair it with?
What drinks can truly elevate the experience of dark chocolate vegan cookies?
I love pairing them with a bold red wine; the rich flavors complement each other beautifully.
For a festive twist, consider a spiced mulled wine or a festive hot chocolate.
These drinks enhance the cookie’s chocolatey goodness and create a warm, inviting atmosphere perfect for celebrating the season.
Enjoy!
Frequently Asked Questions
Is This Fruit Cake Cookie Gluten-Free?
Yes, this fruit cake cookie can be gluten-free! I often use gluten-free flours like almond or coconut in my baking. If you’re trying it, I recommend checking your ingredients for the best results.
Can I Substitute the Dark Chocolate With Another Type?
Absolutely, you can substitute dark chocolate! I love using dark chocolate alternatives like semi-sweet or even white chocolate for fun cookie flavor variations. Experiment and find what delights your taste buds—there’re no wrong choices!
How Should I Store Leftover Cookies?
I store leftover cookies in an airtight cookie container. For extra freshness, I follow refrigeration tips and keep them in the fridge, especially if they’re soft. It really helps maintain their delicious texture!
What Are the Nutritional Benefits of Dark Chocolate?
Dark chocolate’s health benefits are impressive! Its high cocoa content boosts antioxidants, supporting heart health and improving mood. I enjoy it as a delicious treat that also contributes to my overall well-being—what’s not to love?
Can Children Eat These Cookies Safely?
Yes, children can eat these cookies safely. I always check for any children’s allergies first and recommend proper cookie portioning to ensure they’re enjoying treats without any risk. Always supervise their snack time!