Kitchen Sink Cookies are the ultimate treat for cookie lovers! These cookies combine sweet and salty flavors, making them perfect for any occasion. Packed with chocolate chips, toffee bits, pretzels, and potato chips, each bite is a delightful surprise. Whether you’re baking for a party, a family gathering, or just for yourself, these cookies will satisfy your cravings and impress your guests.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Versatile Flavor: Mix and match your favorite candies and snacks to create a personalized cookie experience.
- Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up these cookies in no time.
- Crowd-Pleaser: The combination of sweet and salty flavors makes these cookies a hit at any gathering.
- Make Ahead: Bake a batch to enjoy throughout the week; they store well in an airtight container.
- Fun Activity: Perfect for baking with kids or friends—everyone can add their choice of mix-ins!
Tools and Preparation
Before you start baking Kitchen Sink Cookies, gather all the necessary tools. Having everything ready will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Stand mixer or hand mixer
- Medium mixing bowl
- Baking sheets
- Parchment paper or silicone baking mat
- Whisk
Importance of Each Tool
- Stand mixer or hand mixer: Makes it easy to cream butter and sugars until fluffy, ensuring the right texture.
- Baking sheets: A sturdy surface for even baking; using parchment paper prevents sticking.
- Whisk: Essential for thoroughly combining dry ingredients like flour, baking soda, and salt.
Ingredients
To create these delicious Kitchen Sink Cookies, you’ll need the following ingredients:
For the Cookie Dough
- 2 cups All-Purpose Flour (250 grams)
- 1 teaspoon Baking Soda
- 1/2 teaspoon Kosher Salt
- 2 sticks Unsalted Butter, softened to room temperature (1 cup)
- 3/4 cup Light Brown Sugar, packed (150 grams)
- 1/2 cup White Sugar (100 grams)
- 1 large Egg
- 2 teaspoons Pure Vanilla Extract
For the Add-ins
- 1 1/2 cups Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips
- 1 cup Toffee Bits (like Heath Bits o’ Brickle English Toffee Bits)
- 1 cup Crushed Potato Chips (like Ruffles)
- 1/2 cup Chopped Pretzels
- 1/2 teaspoon Flaky Sea Salt, for topping (optional; like Maldon flaked sea salt)
How to Make Kitchen Sink Cookies
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C). This ensures that your cookies bake evenly.
Step 2: Prepare Baking Sheets
Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats. This will help prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt until well combined. Set aside for later use.
Step 4: Cream Butter and Sugars
In a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment (or using a hand mixer), beat together the softened butter, light brown sugar, and white sugar until light and fluffy. This step is crucial for achieving a soft cookie texture.
Step 5: Add Egg and Vanilla
Add the egg and vanilla extract to your butter mixture. Mix on low speed until fully incorporated. Remember to scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed.
Step 6: Combine Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture into the butter mixture. Mix on low speed just until everything is combined. Be careful not to overmix!
Step 7: Fold in Add-ins
Gently stir in the semi-sweet chocolate chips, toffee bits, crushed potato chips, and chopped pretzels until evenly distributed throughout the dough.
Step 8: Shape Cookie Dough
Roll tablespoon-sized portions of dough into golf ball-sized balls. If desired, roll them in extra toppings before placing them on prepared baking sheets. Leave about 6 inches between each ball.
Step 9: Bake Cookies
Bake in preheated oven for about 10-12 minutes or until edges are crisp but centers remain soft.
Step 10: Tap Baking Sheets
Once out of the oven, firmly tap the baking sheets against your kitchen counter to slightly deflate cookies—this helps keep them soft in the center. Sprinkle lightly with flaky sea salt if desired.
Step 11: Cool Cookies
Allow cookies to cool on the pan for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack.
Step 12: Store Properly
Store any leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature where they’ll stay fresh for up to one week. Enjoy!
How to Serve Kitchen Sink Cookies
Kitchen Sink Cookies are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you want to impress guests or simply indulge yourself, these cookies can fit any occasion.
With Ice Cream
- Scoop of Vanilla: A classic pairing, vanilla ice cream complements the sweet and salty flavors perfectly.
- Chocolate Drizzle: Enhance the indulgence by drizzling warm chocolate sauce over the cookies and ice cream.
As a Party Platter
- Cookie Variety: Serve Kitchen Sink Cookies alongside other cookie varieties for a fun dessert spread.
- Decorative Platter: Arrange them on a colorful platter with fresh fruits for an appealing presentation.
Pairing with Beverages
- Milk: A tall glass of cold milk is a timeless choice that balances the sweetness of the cookies.
- Coffee: Enjoy these cookies with a cup of coffee for a delightful afternoon treat.
Gift Giving
- Cookie Jars: Package your cookies in decorative jars as gifts for friends or family.
- Themed Baskets: Create gift baskets filled with Kitchen Sink Cookies and other treats for special occasions.
How to Perfect Kitchen Sink Cookies
Perfecting Kitchen Sink Cookies involves some simple yet effective techniques. Follow these tips to elevate your cookie-baking game.
- Chill the Dough: Chilling the dough for at least 30 minutes helps prevent spreading and enhances flavor.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Ensure all ingredients, especially baking soda and chocolate chips, are fresh for best results.
- Experiment with Fillings: Feel free to mix different types of chocolate chips or nuts for unique flavor combinations.
- Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on your cookies while baking; they should be golden around the edges but still soft in the center.
- Tap After Baking: Tapping the baking sheets on the counter right after removing them from the oven creates a chewy texture.
Best Side Dishes for Kitchen Sink Cookies
Pairing side dishes with Kitchen Sink Cookies can enhance your dessert experience. Here are some great options to consider.
- Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances the sweetness of the cookies.
- Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt, granola, and fruits for a creamy, crunchy contrast to the cookies.
- Cheese Plate: A selection of cheeses provides a savory contrast, making each bite exciting.
- Chocolate Fondue: Dip fresh fruits or cookie pieces into warm chocolate for added decadence.
- Nut Mix: A bowl of mixed nuts provides a crunchy complement with healthy fats and protein.
- Granola Bars: These offer an easy, chewy contrast that can satisfy cravings without being overly sweet.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Baking Kitchen Sink Cookies can be fun, but it’s easy to make mistakes. Here are some common pitfalls and how to steer clear of them.
- Incorrect Ingredient Measurements: Using too much or too little of an ingredient can change the cookie texture. Always measure accurately for the best results.
- Not Softening Butter: If the butter isn’t softened, it won’t cream properly with sugars. Let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before mixing.
- Overmixing the Dough: Mixing too long can lead to tough cookies. Mix just until combined for soft and chewy cookies.
- Skipping Toppings: Toppings like flaky sea salt enhance flavor. Don’t skip this step if you want that extra burst of taste!
- Ignoring Baking Time: Every oven is different. Keep an eye on your cookies and remove them when edges are crisp but centers are soft.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store Kitchen Sink Cookies in an airtight container.
- They will last up to 1 week in the refrigerator.
Freezing Kitchen Sink Cookies
- You can freeze unbaked cookie dough by rolling it into balls and placing them in a freezer-safe bag.
- Frozen cookie dough lasts up to 3 months; bake directly from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to baking time.
Reheating Kitchen Sink Cookies
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (177°C) and warm cookies for 5-7 minutes for a fresh-baked taste.
- Microwave: Heat one cookie for about 10-15 seconds for a quick warm-up.
- Stovetop: Use a skillet on low heat for about 2-3 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Kitchen Sink Cookies?
Kitchen Sink Cookies are versatile treats packed with various ingredients like chocolate chips, pretzels, and toffee bits, offering a mix of sweet and salty flavors.
Can I customize my Kitchen Sink Cookies?
Yes! Feel free to add different nuts, dried fruits, or swap out chocolate types based on your preference.
How do I store leftover Kitchen Sink Cookies?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature or refrigerate them for longer freshness.
Can I freeze Kitchen Sink Cookies?
Absolutely! You can freeze both baked cookies and unbaked dough for later enjoyment.
What makes Kitchen Sink Cookies special?
Their unique combination of flavors and textures makes them fun and exciting, perfect for sharing or enjoying alone!
Final Thoughts
Kitchen Sink Cookies are a delectable treat that combines sweet and salty elements into one delightful bite. Their versatility allows you to customize ingredients as per your taste preferences, making them perfect for any occasion. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy creating your own version of these delicious cookies!
Kitchen Sink Cookies
Kitchen Sink Cookies are the ultimate treat for cookie lovers, delivering a delightful combination of sweet and salty flavors in every bite. These customizable cookies are packed with an array of ingredients, including chocolate chips, toffee bits, pretzels, and potato chips, making them perfect for any occasion—from parties to cozy nights at home. The simplicity of the recipe ensures that even novice bakers can whip up these irresistible treats in no time. Plus, they store well in an airtight container, allowing you to enjoy them throughout the week.
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 24 cookies 1x
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup light brown sugar, packed
- 1/2 cup white sugar
- 1 large egg
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 cup toffee bits
- 1 cup crushed potato chips
- 1/2 cup chopped pretzels
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt; set aside.
- In a mixing bowl, cream together softened butter, brown sugar, and white sugar until fluffy.
- Add egg and vanilla extract; mix until fully combined.
- Gradually add dry ingredients to the wet mixture until just combined.
- Fold in chocolate chips, toffee bits, crushed potato chips, and pretzels.
- Roll tablespoon-sized portions into balls and place on prepared baking sheets with space between each cookie.
- Bake for about 10-12 minutes or until edges are crisp but centers remain soft.
- Tap baking sheets on the counter after removing from the oven; let cool for a few minutes before transferring to a rack.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 80mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
Keywords: Chill the dough for at least 30 minutes before baking for enhanced flavor and reduced spreading. Customize your cookies by experimenting with different types of chocolate or adding nuts for extra crunch.