Irresistible Air-fryer Eggless Brown Butter Orange and Chocolate Chunk Cookies

Like you, I have also encountered thousands of recipes and vides for the perfect chocolate chip cookies, getting confused with the necessity of all the ingredients that are put into it, and the upcoming 'whys' on each one of them.  As i check for numerous recipes, endlessly scrolling and craving at the same time, I want to use the ingredients that are available in my pantry without having to go to the market or for them, or for the cookie! This recipe is an amalgamation of all the understanding that I reasoned with, as far as the ingredients and processes are concerned; and is a lazy recipe, with just the perfect results (at least for my palette)! And, it is catered to whatever was available in my pantry - from both ingredients to appliances. A word of caution though, this one takes 24h at least for the refrigeration, so make it only if you are patient enough! 

Now these cookies are made using a scale (as much as you avoid it, you need one for baking). Also, these cookies are made in an air-fryer. I do not have an oven at home and my micro-wave works as my make-shift oven. Since the microwave was down from the last couple of days, but the craving was not, here is the recipe (and some facts)! 

Why no eggs? 

Eggless baking has surged in popularity, driven by a diverse array of dietary preferences and restrictions. For individuals with egg allergies, vegan diets, or personal choices against animal-derived products, finding suitable baking alternatives has become increasingly essential. The absence of eggs in recipes does not imply a compromise on taste or texture; rather, it presents a unique opportunity to explore various ingredients that can replicate the functional properties of eggs in baked goods.

One of the primary motivations for adopting eggless recipes is the necessity to accommodate allergies and intolerances. Many people, including children, experience adverse reactions to eggs, leading families to seek egg-free alternatives that are both safe and enjoyable. I personally am very aware about the specific taste of eggs in my desserts and try to avoid it as much as possible, sometimes masking it with stronger flavors and sometimes finding substitutes if possible. Furthermore, the rise of plant-based diets has contributed to the demand for eggless options, as many individuals are consciously opting for vegan lifestyles that exclude any animal-derived ingredients.

Despite the challenges associated with eggless baking, such as achieving the desired rise and moisture in cookies and cakes, there are numerous substitutes available that can yield satisfying results. Ingredients such as applesauce, mashed bananas, the popular flaxseed meal, and even yogurt can effectively replace eggs in recipes. These alternatives not only contribute to the structure and binding of baked goods but also infuse unique flavors and nutritional benefits.

The benefits of eggless baking extend beyond dietary restrictions. Many bakers have discovered that eggless recipes can result in cookies and cakes that are remarkably tender and rich in flavor, appealing to a broader audience beyond those with specific dietary needs. As the culinary world continues to evolve, eggless baking remains an area of innovation and creativity, challenging traditional notions of baking and proving that delicious treats can be made without eggs.

The Magic of Brown Butter

Brown butter, or beurre noisette, is a culinary staple that transforms the ordinary into the extraordinary, especially when it comes to baking cookies. Creating brown butter involves cooking unsalted butter over medium heat until the milk solids separate and turn a rich, golden brown. This process releases a robust, nutty aroma, adding complexity to the flavor profile of baked goods. For cookie recipes, including our irresistible eggless brown butter orange and chocolate chip cookies, brown butter is nothing short of a game changer.

The unique flavor derived from browning butter is a result of the Maillard reaction, a chemical process that occurs when proteins and sugars undergo heat. This reaction not only enhances flavor but also affects the texture of the final product. When cookies are made with brown butter, they tend to have a richer taste and a beautifully crisp edge while maintaining a soft center. The addition of brown butter in baking elevates the flavor, providing depth that traditional melted butter simply cannot achieve.

Despite its advantages, one must be careful to achieve the perfect brown color without burning the butter. To do this, it is important to keep a close eye on the butter as it heats. Stirring frequently can help prevent burning, as it allows heat to distribute evenly and prevents the milk solids from settling at the bottom. Once the butter reaches a fragrant, brown hue, promptly remove it from the heat and let it cool slightly before incorporating it into your cookie dough. With these tips, anyone can master the art of brown butter and reap the benefits in their baking endeavors.

Combining Classics: Orange and Chocolate

The combination of orange and chocolate creates a delightful harmony that captivates many palates. The bright citrus notes of orange infuse a refreshing zest into the rich, creamy texture of chocolate, resulting in an irresistible flavor profile that enchants cookie enthusiasts. This dynamic pairing not only elevates the taste experience but also introduces a colorful visual aspect to the cookies.

When incorporating orange into your eggless cookie recipes, both orange zest and juice can be incorporated to enhance the overall flavor. For this particular recipe, I have used only fresh orange zest. The zest, which is the outer peel of the orange, carries a concentrated aromatic flavor that offers a delightful burst of freshness, that balances perfectly well with the chocolate chunks and the overall flavor. A well-measured combination of these two components  - chocolate and orange, is crucial to ensuring that they complement rather than overpower each other.

Choosing the right type of chocolate is equally important in this flavor combination. Dark chocolate chunks (and not the chips), with their bitter notes, can create a beautiful contrast to the sweet, tangy essence of the orange. Alternatively, semi-sweet or milk chocolate chunks can lend a more indulgent sweetness to the cookies, creating a luxurious treat. For those looking to experiment further, consider adding additional flavors such as vanilla or almond extract, which can harmonize with the orange and chocolate duo.

Ingredients (makes 10 cookies - regular size)

1. Salted Butter (room temperature) - 84 g

2. Flaxseed meal - 7 g 

3. Warm water - 3 tbsp/ 35 ml 

4. Granulated white sugar - 76 g 

5. Jaggery powder - 40 g

6. Orange zest - Fresh zest of 1 large orange 

7. Vanilla extract - 10 to 12 drops

8. Salt - a pinch 

9. All purpose flour - 125 g 

10. Baking Soda -  3/8 tsp

11. Dark Chocolate chunks (70%, chopped) - 85 g  

Recipe

1. Start by melting one cup of unsalted butter in a saucepan over low heat. As the butter melts, it will start to bubble and foam. Stir it continually, watching closely as it turns a golden brown color and develops a nutty aroma; this process typically takes about 5-7 minutes. Once it reaches the appropriate color, remove it from heat and let it cool in the room completely.

2. Mix the flaxseed meal with warm water, stirring thoroughly and let it sit at least for 15 minutes.  

3. Next, in a separate bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and a pinch of salt. Mix well to combine. 

4. Combine the granulated white sugar, jaggery powder, flaxseed-meal and water mixture and the vanilla extract with the brown butter mixing them thoroughly and making a cream - like texture. To this mixture, add the zest of one large orange. Combine well. 

5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Finally, fold in one cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the dough.

6. Take small scoop to scoop out the batter. Add chocolate chunks on the top as well. Keep the scooped out cookies in an air tight container, refrigerated for at least 24 hrs. This step is essential to enhance the flavor and improve the texture. 

7. The next day, preheat your air-fryer to 175°C for about 3 minutes. Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto a lined baking sheet, spacing them about two inches apart.

8. Bake in the preheated air-fryer for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Once in between, after the 7th or 8th minute, use a spoon to spread them a little, if you want the cookies to be crunchy. 

9. After baking, allow the cookies to cool on the sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. For storage, keep these cookies in an airtight container at room temperature, where they can maintain their freshness for about a week. If you want to make a fresh cookie, you can use the refrigerated dough, that has the shelf-life for about 3 days in a refrigerator. 

As you explore variations of this flavor combination, consider introducing other components such as chopped nuts for added texture, or spices like cinnamon for warmth. However, be mindful that each addition should enhance the vibrant exchange between orange and chocolate, ensuring the cookies remain balanced and flavorful. This attention to detail will lead to an unforgettable taste experience in every bite. If you wish to customize your cookies, consider adding nuts, dried fruits, or substituting the chocolate chips with white chocolate or dark chocolate for varied flavors. Remove the orange zest if you want just pure chocolate flavor. Experimenting with ingredients can yield delightful variations of this classic recipe.

Well, this recipe is indulgent. The recipe has all-purpose flour, sugar and jaggery powder as well. But I am still debatable about 'indulgence' once in a while. I mean, well, once in a 'long while' seems fine! Also, I am going to experiment with the millet flours (with low GI) and some sugar substitutes, but not for the chocolate chip cookie, some other crunchy cookie. Chocolate chip cookies, in my opinion, are too perfect to be trifled with! So stay tuned! And enjoy this recipe in the new year!

Wishing everyone a great New Year ahead! Let's stay healthy, by finding a balance and maintaining a healthy relationship with food!