Bourbon Bacon Chocolate Chunk Cookies

If you’re looking for a cookie that perfectly balances sweet and savory, you’ve come to the right place! These Bourbon Bacon Chocolate Chunk Cookies are a delightful treat that will have everyone asking for seconds. The combination of crispy bacon, rich chocolate, and a hint of bourbon creates a flavor explosion that’s simply irresistible. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a family gathering, these cookies are sure to steal the show.

What makes this recipe extra special is how surprisingly easy it is to whip up. You can bake a big batch in no time and share them with friends or keep them all to yourself (no judgment here!). Get ready to make some delicious memories with these cookies!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to prepare: With just 30 minutes of prep time, these cookies can be in your oven before you know it.
• Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the unique combination of flavors!
• Make-ahead convenience: Bake them in advance and store them for later snacking—if they last that long!
• Deliciously versatile: Customize with your favorite chocolate or nuts for a personal touch.
• Perfect for sharing: Ideal for parties, potlucks, or just because!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients to create these mouthwatering Bourbon Bacon Chocolate Chunk Cookies. You probably have most of these staples in your pantry already!

For the Cookies

• 12 ounces center-cut thick bacon, (½-inch diced)
• 2½ cups all purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon baking powder
• ½ cup unsalted butter, (at room temperature)
• ½ cup reserved bacon fat, (chilled)
• ¾ cup granulated white sugar
• ¾ cup packed brown sugar
• 3 tablespoons bourbon
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 large eggs
• 8 ounces dark chocolate, (chopped)

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to get creative and make it your own with these fun variations:

• Swap the bacon: Try turkey bacon or even plant-based bacon for a lighter twist.
• Change the chocolate: Use milk chocolate or white chocolate chunks instead for different flavor profiles.
• Add nuts: Chopped walnuts or pecans can add an extra crunch.
• Adjust the sweetness: Decrease the sugar slightly if you prefer less sweetness.

How to Make Bourbon Bacon Chocolate Chunk Cookies

Step 1: Cook the Bacon

In a large skillet, cook the bacon until it’s golden brown and crisp. This step not only adds flavor but also provides that delightful texture we all love. Once cooked, transfer the bacon onto a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess grease. Remember to reserve about half a cup of that flavorful bacon fat—it’s key to making these cookies utterly scrumptious!

Step 2: Prepare Your Mixture

Preheat your oven to 375 degrees F. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, salt, and baking powder. Meanwhile, in a separate large bowl, use an electric mixer to beat together the butter and chilled bacon fat with both sugars. Adding bourbon and vanilla enhances the flavor profile—trust me on this one! Mix in the eggs one at a time until everything is well combined before folding in your dry ingredients.

Step 3: Add Bacon and Chocolate

Now comes the best part! Stir in those crispy bacon bits along with chopped dark chocolate. If you want your cookies to look extra appealing, save some pieces of bacon and chocolate to sprinkle on top of each cookie dough ball before baking.

Step 4: Bake Your Cookies

Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto parchment-lined baking sheets, leaving about two inches between each one. Bake for 9 to 11 minutes until lightly browned. Allow them to cool on the cookie sheets for about five minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack.

Step 5: Enjoy!

Once cooled completely, dig into these delicious treats! Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days—or freeze them for later enjoyment.

Enjoy baking these Bourbon Bacon Chocolate Chunk Cookies; I can’t wait for you to taste them!

Pro Tips for Making Bourbon Bacon Chocolate Chunk Cookies

Baking these cookies is a delightful experience, and with a few handy tips, you can take them to the next level!

• Use chilled bacon fat: Chilling the reserved bacon fat helps it whip up better with the butter, resulting in a more cohesive dough and chewier cookies.

• Don’t skip the resting time: Allowing the cookie dough to rest in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before baking enhances the flavors and improves texture by preventing excessive spreading.

• Save some toppings: Reserve a few pieces of bacon and chocolate to sprinkle on top of each cookie dough ball before baking. This not only makes your cookies look fabulous but also adds an extra burst of flavor.

• Experiment with chocolate types: While dark chocolate is delicious, feel free to mix in semi-sweet or even milk chocolate chunks for a different sweetness profile that suits your taste.

• Watch your baking time closely: Ovens can vary, so keep an eye on your cookies as they bake. Removing them when they’re just lightly browned ensures they stay soft and chewy!

How to Serve Bourbon Bacon Chocolate Chunk Cookies

These cookies are not only delicious but also visually appealing! Present them in creative ways to wow your guests or family.

Garnishes

• Flaky sea salt: A light sprinkle of flaky sea salt right after baking enhances the sweet and savory flavors beautifully.
• Chopped nuts: Adding crushed pecans or walnuts on top offers a lovely crunch that complements the chewy texture of the cookies.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla ice cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side creates a delightful contrast to the warm, rich flavors of the cookies.
• Fresh fruit salad: A light and refreshing fruit salad balances out the richness of the cookies, making for a well-rounded dessert experience.
• Barley tea: The nutty profile of barley tea pairs wonderfully with these cookies, enhancing their savory notes while providing a unique beverage option.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’re ready to impress everyone with your Bourbon Bacon Chocolate Chunk Cookies! Happy baking!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Bourbon Bacon Chocolate Chunk Cookies are perfect for meal prep! You can bake a big batch ahead of time and enjoy them throughout the week or even share with friends. Here’s how to keep them fresh and delicious:

Storing Leftovers

• Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
• Place parchment paper between layers of cookies if stacking them to prevent sticking.

Freezing

• Allow the cookies to cool completely before 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 kept in the freezer for up to 6 weeks.

Reheating

• To reheat, simply pop them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes until warmed through.
• For an extra treat, you can add a scoop of ice cream on top before reheating!

FAQs

Got questions about Bourbon Bacon Chocolate Chunk Cookies? We’ve got you covered!

Can I use turkey bacon instead of regular bacon in Bourbon Bacon Chocolate Chunk Cookies?

Absolutely! Turkey bacon is a great alternative that will still give your cookies that delightful salty-sweet flavor.

How do I make Bourbon Bacon Chocolate Chunk Cookies without bourbon?

You can replace bourbon with an equal amount of vanilla extract or your favorite non-alcoholic whiskey alternative for similar depth of flavor.

What is the best way to store Bourbon Bacon Chocolate Chunk Cookies?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days, or freeze them for longer preservation.

How many servings does this recipe yield for Bourbon Bacon Chocolate Chunk Cookies?

This recipe makes approximately 48 delicious cookies, perfect for sharing or enjoying over time!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these Bourbon Bacon Chocolate Chunk Cookies as much as I do! They bring together an incredible blend of flavors that’s sure to impress anyone who takes a bite. Whether you’re treating yourself or sharing with friends, these cookies are bound to be a hit. Happy baking, and don’t forget to savor every delicious moment!