Chocolate Tahini Cookies

Name: Chocolate Tahini Cookies
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 27 min
Yield: 12 cookies
Ingredients: 1 cup tahini; 3/4 cup brown sugar; 1/4 cup granulated sugar; 1 large egg; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 teaspoon baking soda; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1 cup dark chocolate chips

Highlighted under: Sweet Favorites

I absolutely adore making these Chocolate Tahini Cookies for a delightful treat that’s both unique and satisfying. The nutty flavor of tahini mixed with rich chocolate creates an irresistible combination that’s perfect for any occasion. I often whip up a batch to share with friends or keep them all for myself—they're that good! Plus, they come together quickly, making them an ideal choice for a last-minute dessert or a special indulgence after dinner.

Created by

Ffion Llewellyn

Last updated on 2026-01-05T22:01:34.791Z

When I first experimented with combining tahini in my cookie recipes, I was pleasantly surprised by how well it complemented the chocolate. This isn’t just a sweet treat; it adds a depth of flavor that keeps people guessing what's in them. I remember serving these at a gathering, and everyone was curious about the secret ingredient!

One crucial tip I learned is to chill the dough for at least 15 minutes before baking. This step improves the texture of the cookies, preventing them from spreading too much in the oven. Trust me, it’s a game changer for achieving perfectly chewy cookies!

Why You'll Love These Cookies
Nutty tahini enhances the chocolate flavor beautifully.
Chewy texture with a hint of crispness around the edges.
They’re free from refined sugars and perfect for snacking anytime!

Embracing the Flavor of Tahini

Tahini is made from ground sesame seeds and brings a unique nutty flavor to these cookies. It acts as a natural fat source, replacing butter while providing essential nutrients like calcium and protein. This adds richness, which beautifully complements the chocolate. When mixing the tahini with the sugars, aim for a smooth consistency; this ensures even distribution of flavors throughout your cookies and prevents any clumps that could disrupt the texture.

If you're new to working with tahini, keep in mind that its consistency can vary. Look for a high-quality, well-blended tahini to avoid any bitterness, which can occur if it’s too thick or old. You might consider stirring the tahini well before measuring, as it can separate in the jar. Using a light-colored tahini can also allow the chocolate flavor to shine through without being overpowered.

Achieving the Perfect Texture

The balance between chewiness and crisp edges is crucial for a perfect cookie. By baking these chocolate tahini cookies at 350°F (175°C) for 10-12 minutes, you allow them to set without overcooking. Watch for the edges turning slightly golden and the center remaining soft; this contrast in texture makes every bite enjoyable. If you prefer a softer cookie, remove them from the oven just as they begin to brown, and let them cool on the baking sheet—this will continue the cooking process slightly from residual heat.

For a twist on texture, consider chilling the dough for 30 minutes before baking. This not only helps to deepen the flavors but also allows the cookies to hold their shape better during baking. You're likely to achieve a thicker, chewy cookie that still has those beautiful golden edges while maintaining a delightful softness inside.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to get started:

Ingredients

1 cup tahini
3/4 cup brown sugar
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1 large egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 cup dark chocolate chips

With your ingredients ready, let’s move on to the baking process!

Instructions

Follow these steps for a delicious batch of cookies:

Preheat the oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Mix wet ingredients

In a large bowl, combine tahini, brown sugar, and granulated sugar. Mix until smooth, then add the egg and vanilla extract. Stir until fully incorporated.

Combine dry ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the baking soda and salt. Gradually add this mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until well combined.

Fold in chocolate chips

Gently fold in the dark chocolate chips until evenly distributed.

Shape and bake

Scoop tablespoon-sized amounts of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them apart. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes until slightly golden.

Cool and enjoy

Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. Enjoy them warm or at room temperature!

Don’t forget to share them with friends or keep them all to yourself!

Pro Tips

For an extra boost of flavor, sprinkle a little sea salt on top of the cookies just before baking. It enhances the sweetness and adds a delightful contrast.

Storing and Freezing Your Cookies

These chocolate tahini cookies are perfect for making ahead of time. Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, and they’ll remain soft and chewy. If you wish to keep them longer, consider freezing the dough. Scoop the unbaked dough onto a parchment-lined baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then, transfer the dough balls to a zip-top bag and keep them in the freezer for up to three months. You can bake them straight from frozen, just adding a couple of extra minutes to the baking time.

If you have leftover baked cookies, they can also be stored in the freezer. Wrap cookies individually or layer them with parchment in an airtight container to prevent sticking. When you want to enjoy a cookie, simply thaw them at room temperature for about 30 minutes, or pop them into the microwave for a few seconds to restore their warm, gooey goodness.

Delicious Variations to Try

While this recipe is fantastic as is, don’t hesitate to customize it! Add a pinch of cinnamon for a hint of spice or swap in almond butter for a different nutty profile. If you're in the mood for something extra indulgent, consider folding in chopped nuts or dried fruit along with the chocolate chips. Walnuts or dried cranberries can add delightful contrast and chewiness, making each cookie a unique treat.

Additionally, if you want a bit of crunch alongside the creamy tahini, sprinkle some sea salt on top just before baking. This simple addition will enhance the sweet flavors and create a delicious balance. Experimenting with different types of chocolate chips, like milk or white chocolate, can also lead to personalized flavor combinations tailored to your preference.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use another nut butter instead of tahini?

Yes, almond or peanut butter can be used as substitutes for tahini, but it will change the flavor slightly.

→ Are these cookies gluten-free?

Yes, these cookies are naturally gluten-free as they do not contain any flour.

→ How should I store the cookies?

Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.

→ Can I freeze the dough?

Absolutely! You can freeze the dough for up to three months. Just thaw and bake as directed.