These chewy black sesame cookies have a subtly crunchy texture and nutty, sweet taste. The earthy, slightly bitter flavor is more prominent than in white sesame seeds, and pairs nicely with the rich buttery flavor and sugar coated exterior of the cookies.Add coarsely chopped chocolate for an optional extra melty treat.
85grams (6 Tablespoons)unsalted butter, room temperature
1Tablespoonsesame oil
150grams (¾ cup)granulated sugar
1large egg, room temperature
1teaspoonvanilla extract
150grams (1¼ cups)all purpose flour
½teaspoonbaking soda
½teaspoonkosher salt
90grams (½ cup, 3 oz)(optional) coarsely chopped dark chocolate chunks, or chocolate chips
100grams (½ cup)granulated sugar for rolling
additional black sesame seeds and chocolate chunks for decoration
Instructions
To the bowl of a food processor (or a blender / spice grinder), add the black sesame seeds and the sugar. Process until sesame seeds are finely ground and sugar mixture has turned a deep grey color. Do not over process or seeds will begin to warm and release oils.
To the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, add the butter and sesame seed / sugar mixture. Cream on medium speed until light and fluffy. Add the sesame oil and mix briefly. Scrape down the sides of the bowl.
85 grams (6 Tablespoons) unsalted butter, room temperature
Add the egg and vanilla, and mix until fully incorporated. Scrape down the sides of the bowl.
1 large egg, room temperature, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Add flour, baking soda, and salt. Mix at low speed until dry ingredients are just incorporated.
150 grams (1¼ cups) all purpose flour, ½ teaspoon baking soda, ½ teaspoon kosher salt
If adding chocolate chips or chunks, fold them in with a spatula.
90 grams (½ cup, 3 oz) (optional) coarsely chopped dark chocolate chunks, or chocolate chips
Using a cookie scoop (I use a 1.5 Tablespoon / Size 40 scoop), portion the dough into 8 balls. Roll in granulated sugar and place on a parchment lined baking sheet. Place a pinch of black sesame seeds on top of each ball of dough, and place a chunk of chocolate on top (if using).
100 grams (½ cup) granulated sugar for rolling, additional black sesame seeds and chocolate chunks for decoration
Bake a single pan at 350 degrees Fahrenheit (177° Celsius, Gas mark 4) on center rack of oven for 8-9 minutes, until edges are set but centers are still slightly soft. They'll look slightly underdone, and will deflate a bit and continue to cook and firm up as they cool on the baking sheet. Repeat with remaining cookie dough.
If you want round cookies, immediately upon removing from oven, place a circular cookie cutter or an upside down drinking glass around each cookie and move it in circles to push the cookies into shape.