If you’re on the hunt for a dessert that perfectly marries two timeless favorites, you have to try this delightful Fudge Filled Chocolate Chip Cookie Cups Recipe. Imagine tender, golden cookie cups hugging a gooey, rich fudge center that melts in your mouth with every bite. It’s the kind of treat that turns casual get-togethers into celebrations and weekday afternoons into something truly special. This recipe brings out the best of chocolate chip cookies with an irresistible fudge surprise inside—making it a standout crowd-pleaser that you’ll want to make again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are refreshingly simple but absolutely vital to achieving the perfect balance of texture and flavor in your cookie cups. Each one plays a special role in delivering that classic cookie taste with a luscious fudge heart.
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour: The foundation of the cookie base, providing that perfect chewiness.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances the sweetness and balances flavors.
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda: Gives the cookies a light rise, keeping them soft and tender.
- 1/2 cup (4 ounces) unsalted butter, softened: Adds richness and moistness to every bite.
- 3/4 cup packed brown sugar: Brings a deep caramel flavor and chewy texture.
- 1 egg, room temperature: Binds the ingredients together and helps create a soft crumb.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds warmth and complexity.
- 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips: Blond gems in the cookie dough for pockets of melt-in-your-mouth chocolate.
- 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips (for fudge filling): Creates that irresistibly smooth fudge center.
- 3/4 cup sweetened condensed milk: Offers sweetness and creamy texture in the fudge.
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (for fudge filling): Just a hint to elevate the fudge filling with an aromatic finish.
How to Make Fudge Filled Chocolate Chip Cookie Cups Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pans
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare two mini muffin pans—these will shape your cookie dough into the perfect little cups for that fudge filling. It’s important to have these set up early so you can dive right into making your dough.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, salt, and baking soda. This ensures your leavening agents and spices are evenly distributed so every cookie cup achieves consistent texture.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Brown Sugar
Using a large bowl, beat the softened butter and brown sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step is crucial because it incorporates air into the dough, giving you that soft and tender crumb.
Step 4: Add Egg and Vanilla
Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and well combined. These ingredients enrich your dough and add depth to the flavor.
Step 5: Incorporate Dry Ingredients and Chocolate Chips
Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet. Be careful not to overmix—just combine until everything is nicely brought together. Then fold in the chocolate chips, giving you delightful bursts of chocolate in every cookie cup.
Step 6: Shape and Bake the Cookie Cups
Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place each one into the mini muffin cups. Bake for 10 to 12 minutes or until the edges turn a gorgeous golden brown. Right out of the oven, press the center of each cookie gently with the back of a teaspoon to create a perfect little cup. This is what will hold your luscious fudge filling. Let the cookie cups cool completely before attempting to remove them from the pan.
Step 7: Make the Fudge Filling
Over a double boiler or a pot of simmering water, melt together the chocolate chips and sweetened condensed milk, stirring constantly until smooth and glossy. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract for that final touch of warmth and aroma.
Step 8: Fill the Cookie Cups
Pipe or spoon the fudge filling into each cookie cup. Allow the fudge to set at room temperature or refrigerate briefly if you want them firmer. These luscious fudge centers elevate the humble chocolate chip cookie into a stunning dessert.
How to Serve Fudge Filled Chocolate Chip Cookie Cups Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle a pinch of flaky sea salt on top of the fudge filling to enhance the sweet and chocolatey flavors beautifully. For some extra flair, add a few mini chocolate chips or even a small dollop of whipped cream when serving. These simple garnishes can transform the presentation and taste.
Side Dishes
A scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce pairs wonderfully alongside these cookie cups. Fresh berries or a fruit compote provide a bright contrast, balancing the rich fudge and chewy cookie perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve these cookie cups in colorful mini cupcake liners or arrange them on a tiered dessert tray during your next party. You can also wrap a few in parchment paper tied with a ribbon for a thoughtful homemade gift that friends and family will adore.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover fudge filled chocolate chip cookie cups in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. This helps maintain their soft, chewy texture and keeps the fudge inside perfectly gooey.
Freezing
You can freeze these cookie cups for longer storage by placing them in a single layer on a baking sheet until frozen solid, then transferring them to a freezer-safe container or bag. Freeze for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
Reheating
If you want to enjoy the fudge filled cookie cups warm, reheat them gently in the oven at 300°F for about 5 minutes. This will soften the fudge filling again without compromising the cookie’s texture.
FAQs
Can I use dark chocolate instead of semisweet?
Absolutely! Dark chocolate will give your fudge filling and cookie chips a richer, more intense flavor. Just keep in mind that it may add a slight bitterness, which balances nicely with the sweetness in the cookie.
Do I need to grease the mini muffin pans?
It’s a good idea to lightly grease or use non-stick spray on your mini muffin pans to ensure the cookie cups come out easily. Alternatively, you can use parchment liners designed for mini muffins.
Can I make these gluten-free?
Yes! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend that measures cup for cup. The texture may vary slightly but the taste will still be amazing.
How long does it take for the fudge filling to set?
Depending on the room temperature, the fudge filling should set within 30 minutes to an hour. For faster results, place the cookie cups in the refrigerator for about 15-20 minutes.
Can I double the recipe for a bigger batch?
Definitely! The recipe scales up nicely, just be sure to have enough mini muffin pans or bake in batches. The baking time stays about the same, but keep an eye on your cookies as oven temperatures can vary.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly magical about combining a classic chocolate chip cookie with a decadent fudge filling that makes this Fudge Filled Chocolate Chip Cookie Cups Recipe a must-try. Whether you’re treating yourself or impressing loved ones, these cookie cups are a guaranteed hit. Warm, inviting, and bursting with chocolatey goodness, they have a way of turning ordinary days into extraordinary memories. Go ahead and give this recipe a whirl—you’ll thank yourself later!
Print
Fudge Filled Chocolate Chip Cookie Cups Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 42 minutes
- Yield: 30 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Fudge Filled Chocolate Chip Cookie Cups are a delightful twist on classic cookies, featuring a soft and chewy chocolate chip cookie shell filled with rich, creamy fudge. Perfect for parties or a decadent treat, they combine the best of cookies and fudge into one bite-sized dessert.
Ingredients
Cookie Cups:
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 cup (4 ounces) unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup packed brown sugar
- 1 egg, room temperature
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
Fudge Filling:
- 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
- 3/4 cup sweetened condensed milk
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare pans: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare two mini muffin pans by lightly greasing or lining them to prevent sticking.
- Mix dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, salt, and baking soda until well combined.
- Cream butter and sugar: In a large bowl, cream the softened unsalted butter and packed brown sugar using a mixer until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 2 to 3 minutes.
- Add egg and vanilla: Beat in the room temperature egg and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Combine dry and wet ingredients: Gradually add the dry flour mixture into the wet ingredients and mix just until combined to avoid overworking the dough.
- Fold in chocolate chips and shape dough: Gently fold in 1 cup of semisweet chocolate chips. Then roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place each ball into the muffin cups evenly.
- Bake and form cups: Bake the dough balls for 10-12 minutes, or until golden brown. While still warm, press the center of each cookie with the back of a teaspoon to form small cups. Allow them to cool completely in the pans before removing.
- Make fudge filling: In a heatproof bowl set over simmering water, melt 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips with 3/4 cup sweetened condensed milk, stirring continuously until smooth. Remove from heat and stir in 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract.
- Fill cookie cups: Using a piping bag or spoon, fill each cooled cookie cup with the prepared fudge filling evenly.
- Set fudge and serve: Allow the fudge filling to set at room temperature or in the refrigerator before serving for the best texture and flavor.
Notes
- Ensure the egg is at room temperature for better mixing and texture.
- You can use mini muffin pans or regular muffin pans depending on desired cookie cup size.
- Press the centers of the cookies immediately after baking while still warm to avoid cracking.
- Store cookie cups in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for longer shelf life.
- For a dairy-free version, use dairy-free butter and chocolate chips.
- Fudge filling can be varied with different types of chocolate such as dark or milk chocolate based on preference.
