Update 09/05/12: Congratulations Megan and Alaine! Exciting treats are on the way.
Have you discovered cocoa nibs yet? If not, consider this your invitation—cocoa nibs are truly addictive.
They’re versatile: stir them into morning oatmeal for a lasting chocolate fix, toss them into a salad for an unexpected crunch and flavor, or enjoy them straight from the bag as a quick, satisfying snack.
Every time I see the phrase “by the handful straight out of the bag” in advertising, I think: isn’t that literally snacking? Who carefully measures out a tiny portion on a plate for a long TV session? That never happens in real life.
Cocoa nibs are one of the few exceptions—I can and do eat them by the handful. They taste like what healthy chocolate should be: intense, slightly bitter, and pleasantly crunchy. Sure, nutrition advice often mentions a little red wine and a small square of dark chocolate, but a handful of cocoa nibs feels like a more honest treat.
They’re also excellent for baking. Not overly sweet, they fall somewhere between a chocolate chip and a nut in texture and flavor. I used them in place of chocolate chips in this oatmeal cookie recipe and the result is chewy in the center, crisp on the edges, packed with oats, and bursting with chocolatey depth.
To celebrate the end of summer and welcome the season ahead, I’m giving away two gift bags filled with cocoa nibs and other fun items. Each bag includes:
- a BAKINGMAKESFRIENDS tote bag
- one 8-ounce tin of cocoa nibs
- a charming cookie cutter set found in Prague
- a wooden spoon from France
- a bottle of Essie nail polish in a vibrant red
- sparkling sugar for a bit of extra flair
To enter the giveaway, simply leave a comment on this post. Tell me about a favorite memory from your summer or what you’re most looking forward to this fall. You can also follow and say hi on Twitter or Facebook and mention that in your comment.
Comments will close on Tuesday, September 4th at 11:59 p.m. (EST). Good luck!
*OMG! How is it September already?!?
Oatmeal Cocoa Nib Cookies
Makes about 2 dozen cookies
1 stick (8 tablespoons or 113 grams) unsalted butter, room temperature
1/2 cup (100 grams) packed brown sugar
1/2 cup (112 grams) granulated sugar
1 large egg
1/2 teaspoon (2.5 ml) vanilla extract
1 cup (125 grams) all-purpose flour
1 cup (140 grams) old-fashioned rolled oats
1/2 teaspoon (2 grams) baking soda
1/2 teaspoon (2 grams) baking powder
1/2 teaspoon (2 grams) salt
1 cup (120 grams) cocoa nibs
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. In a large bowl, cream together the butter and both sugars until light and fluffy. Add the egg and vanilla, mixing until combined. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, oats, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and cocoa nibs. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture until just incorporated. Using a small scoop, portion the dough onto the prepared sheet about 2 inches apart. Bake for about 8 minutes, or until the edges are just beginning to brown. Transfer the cookies to a cooling rack and let cool completely.
Details: Two winners will be selected. The giveaway is open to U.S. and international readers. Please leave a valid email address so I can contact the winners to arrange shipping. This giveaway is sponsored by Butter Me Up Brooklyn. One comment per person, please. Comments close Tuesday, September 4th at 11:59 p.m. (EST). Winners will be contacted and announced by Wednesday, September 5th at 11:59 p.m. (EST). Winners will be chosen at random.