Sea Salt Chocolate Cookies
The perfect balance of sweet and salty using natural sea salt crystals that enhance the rich chocolate flavor while adding delightful texture.
- • 2¼ cups all-purpose flour
- • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- • ¾ cup brown sugar
- • ½ cup granulated sugar
- • 2 large eggs
- • 2 tsp vanilla extract
- • 1 tsp baking soda
- • 1 tsp fine sea salt
- • 2 cups dark chocolate chips
- • 2 tbsp flaky sea salt (for topping)
Flaky sea salt provides bursts of salinity that enhance chocolate's natural flavors while adding textural contrast. The mineral complexity complements the sweetness perfectly.
Instructions
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and fine sea salt. Set aside.
In a large bowl, cream softened butter with both brown and granulated sugars until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes. The sea salt in the dough will enhance all the flavors.
Beat in eggs one at a time, then add vanilla extract. Mix until well combined. The eggs should be at room temperature for best incorporation.
Gradually mix in the flour mixture until just combined. Don't overmix. Fold in chocolate chips until evenly distributed throughout the dough.
Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto prepared baking sheets, spacing 2 inches apart. Lightly press a pinch of flaky sea salt onto the top of each cookie before baking.
Bake for 9-11 minutes, until edges are golden brown but centers still look slightly underbaked. Cool on baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
- • Use high-quality flaky sea salt like Maldon for best results
- • Don't overbake - cookies continue cooking on the hot pan
- • Chill dough for 30 minutes if it's too soft to handle
- • Store in airtight container to maintain the salt's crunch
The combination of sea salt and chocolate isn't just delicious—it's scientifically proven to enhance flavor perception. Salt suppresses bitterness while amplifying sweetness, making the chocolate taste richer and more complex.
Flavor Enhancement:
- • Salt reduces bitter compounds
- • Enhances chocolate's natural sweetness
- • Creates flavor contrast and complexity
- • Triggers multiple taste receptors
Textural Benefits:
- • Flaky crystals provide satisfying crunch
- • Dissolves slowly for lasting flavor
- • Creates visual appeal
- • Adds gourmet finishing touch