Ingredients

  • 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 3/4 teaspoon salt
  • 2 sticks unsalted butter, melted and cooled slightly
  • 1 1/2 cups packed light brown sugar
  • 1/2 cup cocoa powder (not Dutch-process)
  • 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 1/2 cup bittersweet chocolate chips

Method

  • 2 cups assorted mix-ins (such as holiday M&Ms, toffee bits, shredded coconut, peanut butter chips and/or white chocolate chunks)
  • Position racks in the upper and lower thirds of the oven and preheat to 375 degrees F. Line 2 baking sheets with parchment paper.
  • Sift the flour, baking soda and salt into a large bowl.
  • In a separate large bowl, whisk the melted butter, brown sugar, cocoa powder, eggs and vanilla until combined.
  • Stir in the flour mixture with a wooden spoon until just incorporated, then stir in the chocolate chips and assorted mix-ins.
  • Drop tablespoonfuls of dough about 3 inches apart on the prepared baking sheets; smooth the tops with damp fingers.
  • Bake, switching the pans halfway through, until puffed and set, about 12 minutes.
  • Let cool 5 minutes on the baking sheets, then transfer to racks to cool completely.
  • Photograph by Andrew Purcell