Bourbon Bacon Chocolate Chunk Cookies

If you’re looking for a cookie that combines the rich flavors of chocolate with the savory crunch of bacon, then these Bourbon Bacon Chocolate Chunk Cookies are about to become your new favorite treat! This delightful recipe brings together the best of both worlds, making it perfect for busy weeknights when you crave something sweet or as a special addition to family gatherings. Every bite offers a unique twist that leaves everyone asking for more.

What sets these cookies apart is their wonderful balance of sweetness and salty goodness. They’re not just cookies; they’re an experience! Whether you enjoy them fresh out of the oven or save some for later, this recipe promises to deliver smiles all around.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Irresistible flavor: The combination of bacon and chocolate creates a taste sensation that’s both sweet and savory.
• Easy preparation: With simple steps, you can whip these cookies up in no time, perfect for bakers of all levels!
• Make-ahead convenience: These cookies store well, allowing you to bake in batches and enjoy over several days.
• Crowd-pleaser: Ideal for parties or gatherings, they’re sure to impress your friends and family with their unique flavor profile.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the ingredients for these Bourbon Bacon Chocolate Chunk Cookies is a breeze! You’ll find that these simple, wholesome components are likely already in your kitchen or easy to get at your local store.

For the Cookies

• 12 ounces center-cut thick bacon, diced into ½-inch pieces
• 2½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, at room temperature
• 1/2 cup reserved bacon fat, chilled (see notes below if you don’t have enough)
• 3/4 cup granulated white sugar
• 3/4 cup packed brown sugar
• 3 tablespoons bourbon-flavored syrup or extract (as a substitute)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 large eggs
• 8 ounces dark chocolate, chopped

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is how flexible it is! You can easily tailor it to suit your tastes or what you have on hand.

• Swap the chocolate: Use milk chocolate or white chocolate chunks for a different flavor experience.
• Add nuts: Toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans for extra crunch.
• Go spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the dough for a subtle kick that complements the sweetness.
• Make it gluten-free: Substitute all-purpose flour with your favorite gluten-free blend!

How to Make Bourbon Bacon Chocolate Chunk Cookies

Step 1: Cook the Bacon

In a large skillet, cook the diced bacon over medium heat until it’s golden brown and crispy. This step is crucial as it not only adds flavor but also provides the delicious bacon fat needed for our cookies. Once cooked, transfer the crispy bacon onto paper towels to drain excess grease. Reserve about ½ cup of that flavorful bacon fat in the pan, and spoon it into a measuring cup. Let it cool in the refrigerator until solidified.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

Preheat your oven to 375 degrees F. While it’s heating up, whisk together flour, baking soda, salt, and baking powder in a medium bowl. Mixing these dry ingredients first ensures even distribution throughout your batter.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugars

In another large bowl, use an electric mixer to cream together the softened butter, chilled bacon fat, granulated sugar, brown sugar, bourbon-flavored syrup (or extract), and vanilla until light and fluffy. This step helps incorporate air into your dough for lighter cookies. Then add in each egg one at a time, mixing until fully combined.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually beat in the flour mixture into your wet ingredients until just combined. Stir in those crispy bits of bacon and chopped chocolate gently—this is where your cookies begin to take shape!

Step 5: Bake Your Cookies

Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto parchment-lined baking sheets about 2 inches apart. If you’d like to make them look extra special, save some pieces of bacon and chocolate to sprinkle on top before baking! Bake those beauties for 9-11 minutes until they’re lightly browned around the edges.

Step 6: Cool and Store

Once baked, let them stand on the cookie sheets for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack. Allow them to cool completely before storing them in an airtight container for up to five days or freeze them for up to six weeks if you can resist!

Enjoy every bite of these Bourbon Bacon Chocolate Chunk Cookies—your taste buds will thank you!

Pro Tips for Making Bourbon Bacon Chocolate Chunk Cookies

Baking is always a delightful adventure, and these tips will help you create the most scrumptious cookies ever!

• Choose the right bacon: Using center-cut bacon gives you the perfect balance of meaty flavor without too much grease. This ensures that your cookies are deliciously crispy without being overly oily.
• Chill the dough: If you have time, chilling the cookie dough for at least 30 minutes can lead to thicker, chewier cookies. This allows the flavors to meld and prevents spreading during baking.
• Use high-quality chocolate: Opting for dark chocolate with a high cocoa content will enhance the richness of your cookies. It complements the sweetness perfectly and adds a luxurious touch.
• Don’t overbake: Keep an eye on your cookies as they bake! They should be just lightly browned at the edges; they will continue to cook a bit while cooling on the baking sheet, ensuring a soft center.
• Experiment with mix-ins: Feel free to add nuts or even a sprinkle of sea salt on top before baking for extra texture and flavor. It’s all about making these cookies your own!

How to Serve Bourbon Bacon Chocolate Chunk Cookies

These cookies are perfect for sharing or enjoying solo with a warm beverage, making them a versatile treat for any occasion!

Garnishes

• Sea salt flakes: A light sprinkle of flaky sea salt on top before baking enhances the sweet and savory flavors.
• Chocolate drizzle: Melt some extra dark chocolate and drizzle it over cooled cookies for an elegant presentation and an extra chocolatey kick.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla ice cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream served alongside these cookies provides a refreshing contrast to their rich flavors.
• Barley tea: This nutty, refreshing drink pairs beautifully with the salty-sweet profile of the cookies, enhancing their taste while providing hydration.
• Fresh fruit salad: A vibrant mix of seasonal fruits adds brightness and balances out the richness of the cookies, making it an excellent side option.
• Hot cocoa: For those chilly evenings, serving these cookies with a warm cup of hot cocoa makes for an indulgent dessert experience.

Enjoy creating these delightful Bourbon Bacon Chocolate Chunk Cookies—happy baking!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Bourbon Bacon Chocolate Chunk Cookies are not only a delightful treat but also perfect for meal prep! With their rich flavor and chewy texture, you can easily make them ahead of time to satisfy your sweet cravings throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
• Ensure they are completely cooled before sealing to prevent moisture buildup.

Freezing

• Place cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
• Transfer frozen cookies to a zip-top bag or airtight container, separating layers with parchment paper.
• They can be stored in the freezer for up to 6 weeks.

Reheating

• To enjoy warm cookies, place them on a baking sheet and reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes.
• Alternatively, microwave for 10-15 seconds for a quick warm-up.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about these delicious cookies!

Can I make Bourbon Bacon Chocolate Chunk Cookies without bacon?

Yes! You can substitute the bacon with crispy cooked mushrooms or tempeh for a similar crunchy texture without using meat.

What makes Bourbon Bacon Chocolate Chunk Cookies so special?

The combination of crispy bacon, rich dark chocolate, and the hint of bourbon creates an irresistible flavor profile that sets these cookies apart from traditional chocolate chip cookies.

How can I customize my Bourbon Bacon Chocolate Chunk Cookies?

Feel free to mix in nuts like walnuts or pecans, or swap out the dark chocolate for milk chocolate or white chocolate if you prefer a sweeter cookie!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these Bourbon Bacon Chocolate Chunk Cookies as much as I did! They’re perfect for sharing with friends or enjoying during a cozy night in. The unique blend of flavors will surely impress anyone who tries them. Get ready to bake up some magic and savor every delicious bite!