Orange Dark Chocolate Chunk Cookies: 5 Must-Bake Favorites

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If you’ve ever wanted a cookie that feels a little fancy but still hits that deep, cozy comfort-food note, Orange Dark Chocolate Chunk Cookies are about to become your new obsession.
These cookies are rich, buttery, and packed with melty dark chocolate chunks, with just enough fresh orange zest to wake up your taste buds. They’re the kind of cookie that makes people pause mid-bite and say, “Okay… WOW.”

Whether you’re baking for a busy weeknight treat, a weekend baking therapy session, or something special to share, this recipe fits right in. And the best part? You don’t need any fancy equipment or bakery-level skills—just a bowl, a mixer, and a little patience while the dough chills.

Why You’ll Love These Orange Dark Chocolate Chunk Cookies

Let me count the ways—because there are many:

Big bakery-style flavor at home without leaving your kitchen
That sweet-meets-bitter balance from dark chocolate and citrus
Soft, chewy centers with crisp edges (cookie perfection, if you ask me)
Make-ahead friendly dough for stress-free baking later
Grown-up enough for guests, cozy enough for family

These Orange Dark Chocolate Chunk Cookies feel special but not intimidating, which is kind of my favorite sweet spot in baking.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s what goes into these dreamy cookies. Nothing wild—just simple ingredients doing amazing things together.

Dry Ingredients

2 2/3 cups all-purpose flour
1 1/4 teaspoons baking soda
1 teaspoon cornstarch
1 teaspoon kosher sea salt

Wet Ingredients

1 cup unsalted butter
3/4 cup granulated sugar
1 1/4 cups packed brown sugar
1 tablespoon orange zest (fresh is key!)
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
2 large eggs

The Star of the Show

6 oz orange dark chocolate bar, chopped (Lindt, Theo, Chocolove—use what you love)

Optional (But Highly Recommended)

Flaky sea salt for garnish

How to Make Orange Dark Chocolate Chunk Cookies (Step-by-Step)

Don’t worry—this process is simple, straightforward, and totally doable even on a busy day.

1. Melt the Butter (Just Enough)

Place the butter in a microwave-safe bowl and heat for 30–45 seconds, until mostly melted with a few soft pieces left. This gives you rich flavor without greasy cookies.

2. Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together:

Flour
Baking soda
Cornstarch
Salt

Set aside—easy win ✔️

3. Cream the Butter and Sugars

In a stand mixer (or with a hand mixer), beat the butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar on medium speed for 1 minute.
Add the orange zest and vanilla, and beat for another minute until fragrant and fluffy.

4. Add the Eggs

Add the eggs one at a time, mixing between each addition. This helps the dough stay smooth and evenly mixed.

5. Combine Wet and Dry

Turn the mixer to low and gradually add the dry ingredients. Mix just until a soft dough forms—don’t overdo it.

6. Fold in the Chocolate

Using a spatula, gently fold in the chopped orange dark chocolate, including any chocolate shavings left on your cutting board (that’s flavor gold).

7. Chill the Dough

Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight if you can.
Yes, chilling matters—it helps the cookies bake thicker and chewier.

Orange Dark Chocolate Chunk Cookies with melted dark chocolate chunks and fresh orange zest on top — These Orange Dark Chocolate Chunk Cookies are thick, chewy, and loaded with rich dark chocolate and bright citrus flavor.

Baking the Cookies

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Line baking sheets with parchment paper or baking mats.
Scoop dough using a 1.5-tablespoon cookie scoop, spacing cookies about 2 inches apart.
Sprinkle lightly with sea salt if desired.
Bake for 11–13 minutes, rotating the pan halfway through.

You’re looking for golden edges with soft centers. Let cookies cool on the pan for 3–4 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.

Helpful Baking Tips (Because Life Happens)

If your dough feels too firm after chilling, let it sit at room temp for 10 minutes before scooping.
Too much spread? Your butter may have been too hot—next time, let it cool slightly.
Extra chocolate lover? Add another ounce. No judgment here.
Cookies look underbaked? That’s actually perfect—they’ll set as they cool.

A Little Story From My Kitchen

The first time I made these Orange Dark Chocolate Chunk Cookies, it was one of those weeks—too many emails, too many errands, and not enough quiet moments. I needed something comforting but also a little special.
The smell of orange zest and warm chocolate filling the kitchen? Instant mood lift. These cookies didn’t solve everything, but they definitely made the evening sweeter—and sometimes, that’s enough.

FAQs About Orange Dark Chocolate Chunk Cookies

Can I use chocolate chips instead of chunks?

You can, but chopped chocolate melts into pockets, which makes these cookies extra indulgent.

How do I store leftovers?

Store baked cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. The dough can be refrigerated for 48 hours or frozen for later.

Can I freeze the dough?

Absolutely. Scoop dough balls, freeze solid, and bake straight from frozen—just add 1–2 minutes to baking time.

Can I skip the orange zest?

You can, but the orange is what makes these cookies memorable. If you’re unsure, start with half the zest.

If you’re craving a dessert that feels cozy, indulgent, and just a bit elevated, Orange Dark Chocolate Chunk Cookies are calling your name. They’re perfect for sharing, gifting, or quietly enjoying with a cup of coffee while the house finally goes quiet.

From my kitchen to yours—happy baking, and may your cookies always be thick, chewy, and full of chocolatey joy.

A Few Sweet Treats You Might Love Next

If baking season has you feeling inspired and your kitchen already smells amazing, here are a few cozy desserts that pair beautifully with Orange Dark Chocolate Chunk Cookies. Think of these as the next treats to bookmark for weekend baking, holiday trays, or those nights when dessert just feels necessary. And if you enjoy seeing how other bakers put their own spin on this flavor combo, you may also love this orange dark chocolate chunk cookies inspiration from Life Made Simple Bakes.

If you’re craving another classic with that irresistible bakery feel, these bakery-style chocolate chip cookies with thick, chewy centers are always a win and never disappoint.
Love the hint of citrus in desserts? These orange cranberry shortbread cookies that are buttery and melt-in-your-mouth bring a bright, cozy twist that’s perfect with coffee or tea.
For something festive and chocolate-forward, these chocolate mint cookies with rich cocoa flavor add a fun seasonal touch to any cookie platter.
And when you’re in the mood for a warm, spoonable dessert that feels like a hug in a bowl, this slow cooker brownie pudding with gooey chocolate goodness is pure comfort food bliss.

Because once the oven’s warm and the mixing bowls are out, it’s always nice to have one more sweet idea waiting in the wings.