• Facebook
  • Instagram
  • Pinterest
  • RSS
  • Twitter
  • Home
  • About Me
  • Recipes
  • Cookbooks
  • Work With Me
  • Contact

CPA: Certified Pastry Aficionado

Grown-up Chocolate Chip Cookies

Cookies· dessert· snacks
October 9, 2023

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

Grown-up Chocolate Chip Cookies – Chocolate chip cookies loaded with finely chopped pistachios, walnuts, and dried cherries. A sprinkle of sea salt on top gives them the perfect flavor balance.

grown-up chocolate chip cookies layered on a serving platter

It’s been a long time since I’ve shared a cookie recipe. I used to share at least once a month, but I’ve slowed that down a bit due to a lack of inventive, inspiring recipes.

Until now! These Grown-up Chocolate Chip Cookies won me over during a recent vacation and I just had to make a version to enjoy once I got home. At first sight, I wasn’t sure about these cookies. They looked a little dense and even rough. But I had heard rave reviews about these cookies so I just had to give them a try. And man, were they a pleasant surprise! Chewy, chocolatey, and full of complex, yet welcomed flavors like pistachio, walnuts, and dried cherries. And the sprinkle of sea salt brings it all together for the full “wow” effect.

Here are my Grown-up Chocolate Chip Cookies!

a hand holding a grown-up chocolate chip cookie upright to show off all the nooks and crannies
side view of cookies sitting on a platter
a cookie broken in half to reveal the inside

Tips & Tricks

  1. Chop nuts into fine pieces. You don’t want the crunch from the nuts to come through. Instead, we want a chewy texture in the cookies. In order to achieve that, the nuts need to be chopped finely. I used a food processor to get them chopped easily.
  2. Yes, some of the chocolate chips get ground up. I was a little confused by the step of grinding up the mini chocolate chips and tossing into the flour. But it really adds chocolate flavor in small bursts that are blended well into the cookie dough.
  3. The dough will be THICK. This is one of the thickest cookie doughs I’ve ever worked with. I had to push my mixer speed to medium to get it to move! If you don’t have a mixer, you can just mix the dough by hand to ensure an even mixture. Make sure to use a big bowl to make the process easier!
  4. No chilling required! One thing that shocked me by this recipe is that it requires no chilling before baking. This is because the dough is so thick that it does not spread quickly when heated. So don’t worry – those cookies will stay thicken even without chilling.
a hand dipping half of a grown-up chocolate chip cookie in milk
Print Recipe

Grown-up Chocolate Chip Cookies

Prep Time30 minutes mins
Cook Time20 minutes mins
Total Time50 minutes mins
Servings: 24 large cookies

Ingredients

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • ¾ teaspoon coarse sea salt
  • ¾ teaspoon baking soda
  • ¼ teaspoon baking powder
  • 2¼ cup old-fashioned oats
  • 2 cups mini chocolate chips divided
  • 1 cup butter softened, unsalted
  • 1¼ cup light brown sugar
  • 1 cup granulated white sugar
  • 1 tablespoon molasses
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
  • 1 cup walnuts halves
  • 6 ounces shelled pistachio lightly salted or unsalted
  • 8 ounces dried cherries finely chopped
  • sea salt flakes for sprinkling

Instructions

  • Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Prepare two baking sheets by lining with parchment paper or a silicone mat. Set aside.
  • Add flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt to a large bowl. Add oats and ¾ cup of mini chocolate chips to a food processor. Cover and pulse until the oats and chocolate chips are ground into smaller pieces but not as fine as powder. Add to the flour mixture and whisk together. Set aside.
  • Add the softened butter, sugars, and molasses in the bowl of a stand mixer. With the paddle attachment, cream together until fluffy, about 3-4 minutes. Add eggs, one at a time, beating after each addition. Add vanilla extract and beat until smooth. Add 1/3 of the flour mixture and beat until combined. Add the rest of the flour mixture and mix together.
  • In the food processor, add the pistachios and walnuts. Cover and pulse until finely chopped. Add to the dough mixture, along with the finely chopped cherries and the remaining mini chocolate chips. Mix on medium to combine all together. This will take some time. If your mixer cannot handle it all, you can use your hands to mix together.
  • Using a medium cookie scoop, scoop out the dough into perfect rounds and place on the cookie sheet about 2-3 inches apart. There should be no more than 12 cookies per baking sheet. Bake 1 baking sheet at a time in a preheat oven for about 15 minutes or until the edges start to brown.
  • Remove from the oven and let cool for about 10 minutes before eating.

Notes

Recipe adapted from Disney Eats

Pin for later:

pin of grown-up chocolate chip cookies

More recipes you’ll love:

Sea Salt Toffee Chocolate Chip Cookies
Sea Salt Toffee Chocolate Chip Cookies on a baking dish with parchment paper, shot from a side angle
Raspberry Chocolate Chip Cookies
raspberry chocolate chip cookies stacked three high with other cookies surrounding the stack
Banana Chocolate Chip Cookies
close up of banana chocolate chip cookies covered in chocolate chips and a few candied walnuts

Share this:

  • Click to share on Pinterest (Opens in new window)
  • Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)
  • Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window)
  • Click to share on Tumblr (Opens in new window)
  • Click to email this to a friend (Opens in new window)

22 Comments

« Apple Cinnamon Stuffed French Toast
Cherry Almond Pastry Cake »

Comments

  1. Random-Life says

    February 14, 2026 at 11:44 am

    This is exactly what I’ve been looking for. Standard chocolate chip cookies can often be cloyingly sweet, but the use of dark chocolate and sea salt really creates that sophisticated, ‘grown-up’ flavor profile. The brown butter adds an incredible nutty depth that you just can’t get any other way. This has officially become my go-to recipe for dinner parties!

    Reply
  2. DriftBoss Game says

    June 4, 2025 at 5:28 am

    I’ve already bookmarked your blog. Every one of your works is so exquisitely crafted, and they are also a visual delight.

    Reply
  3. Erinvenus432 says

    May 22, 2025 at 3:08 am

    These would make such a great gift or coffee pairing treat. Can’t wait to try them for my next get-together!
    Retro Bowl

    Reply
  4. vex 3 says

    February 25, 2025 at 4:41 am

    I was pleased when I read this internet quote. I found this information to be very useful. It was pretty good. This article was quite entertaining.

    Reply
  5. Alberto90 says

    December 18, 2024 at 1:59 pm

    These Grown-up Chocolate Chip Cookies sound absolutely amazing with their rich mix of flavors and textures! For those who love exploring creative recipes and hobbies, apps like Lulubox Pro APK can be a fun addition, as they help unlock features in your favorite games, much like these cookies unlock a new level of flavor with pistachios, walnuts, and cherries. Perfect for treating yourself both in the kitchen and in your digital adventures!

    Reply
  6. hill climb racing says

    December 19, 2023 at 4:20 am

    This is a creamy lumpless mixture and the cookies will bake up properly if you do this. I’ve also learned to mix the dry ingredients together.

    Reply
  7. Silvia says

    October 15, 2023 at 10:43 pm

    This is my kind of cookie, with all the chocolate chips and the nuts and all that goodness, omg, it’s so hard to stop eating them. The cherries are a nice touch.

    Reply
  8. Tammy says

    October 15, 2023 at 4:13 pm

    These cookies look divine! They’re loaded with everything…I love the pistachios mixed in! Fabulous balance of flavors and textures…cannot wait to try!

    Reply
  9. Veronika says

    October 14, 2023 at 11:17 pm

    Loved the addition of pistachios and dried cherries! So unexpected in chocolate chip cookies but so delicious! Definitely making a double batch next time!

    Reply
  10. Jessica says

    October 14, 2023 at 1:21 pm

    This recipe is pure perfection. I felt like a chef in my own kitchen. The taste was out of this world, and I can’t wait to share these cookies with my other adult friends 😉

    Reply
  11. Sarah James says

    October 14, 2023 at 11:59 am

    Your cookies were so moreish I’ve got to make another batch. We loved the oats and chocolate chips with the cranberries and the sea salt definitely made a difference, thank you.

    Reply
  12. Bernice says

    October 13, 2023 at 2:45 pm

    haha I love the idea of ‘grown up’ chocolate chip cookies! Does this mean I don’t have to share theses awesome with my kids? !

    Reply
  13. Sean says

    October 13, 2023 at 12:43 pm

    The sea salt makes all the difference in the recipe. I love how it cuts down on the sweetness.

    Reply
  14. veenaazmanov says

    October 10, 2023 at 9:00 pm

    Loved your delicious recipe. The sea salt touch, yummy nuts and cherries, healthy oats. Combination of ingredients unique for a Chocolate chip cookie. Perfect gifting option.

    Reply
  15. Elaine says

    October 10, 2023 at 5:04 pm

    I love these cookies. As soon as I saw the recipe, I made them right away! Great ingredients and so delicious!

    Reply
  16. Marta says

    October 10, 2023 at 11:07 am

    Not gonna lie, I thought the “grown up” part of this chocolate chip cookie recipe included liquor, which means I need to have a chat with my therapist. No matter, the recipe came out perfect per your instructions. The added pistachios were my favorite.

    Reply
  17. Yunus says

    October 10, 2023 at 9:35 am

    Thank you very much, I liked your recipe very much.

    Reply
  18. Sara Welch says

    October 9, 2023 at 10:01 pm

    Whipped up a batch of these this afternoon and they do not disappoint! Turned out light, sweet and delicious; the best way to cure my sweet tooth, indeed!

    Reply
  19. Gianne says

    October 9, 2023 at 9:46 pm

    I am absolutely in love with these cookies! The addition of walnuts, pistachios, and dried cherries is pure perfection!

    Reply
  20. Dana says

    October 9, 2023 at 9:36 pm

    I can’t wait to try these! Love how there’s so much more than just chocolate chips happening here.

    Reply
  21. Kristine says

    October 9, 2023 at 9:11 pm

    These cookies are incredible! So much flavor and texture from the fruit and nuts. Mmm!

    Reply
  22. patricia says

    October 9, 2023 at 9:04 pm

    Whoa!! These are just amazing! I will be making them this week and cannot wait – I love your recipes and these look like an amazing one. What’s better than somewhat chewy cookies loaded with all the good things (and flavor)!?

    Reply

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.

Hi, my name is Sharon. I’m an accountant by day, risk-taking baker and food enthusiast by night. Come join me as I share my favorite recipes and test out new ones along the way!

fall flavors

staged shot of pumpkin cinnamon crunch muffins with sprinkled pecans and pumpkins in the background, shot from a side angle

Pumpkin Cinnamon Crunch Muffins

pumpkin challah bread sliced with a knife

Pumpkin Challah Bread

apple pie egg roll dipping in caramel sauce

Apple Pie Egg Rolls

Roasted Brussel Sprouts in a baking dish with melted butter and a spoon in it, shot from a side angle

Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Honey Mustard Vinaigrette

styled shot of Cranberry Apple Crumble

Cranberry Apple Crumble

a baking sheet with banana bread granola and a whole banana on it, shot from a side angle

Banana Bread Granola

ORDER MY NEW COOKBOOK NOW!

photo of entertaining made easy cookbook available for preorder now

Breakfast
Appetizers
Entrees
Salads
Sides
Drinks
Desserts
Roundups
Holidays

Browse by Date

  • Home
  • About Me
  • Contact Me
  • Privacy Policy

holiday favorite

close up of a phyllo triangle sitting on a platter drizzled with honey and chopped walnuts

Goat Cheese & Honey Phyllo Triangles

photo taken from the right side of oasted greek lemon potatoes sitting in a dark 9x13 pan

Greek Lemon Potatoes

bailey cheesecake brownie bites on a dessert plate with one missing a bite to expose the creamy center

Baileys Cheesecake Brownie Bites

close up of sliced loaf of chocolate cinnamon babka with the center exposed to see the beautiful swirl of chocolate

Chocolate Cinnamon Babka

Peach & Goat Cheese Crostini on a platter topped with basil and balsamic vinaigrette, shot from a side angle

Peach & Goat Cheese Crostini (+wine pairing)

 

Creamy Skillet Corn Dip – fresh corn mixed with Creamy Skillet Corn Dip – fresh corn mixed with jalapeños, cream cheese, sour cream, and melty Monterrey Jack cheese! 🌽🧀

This is THE ultimate party dip, you guys! Sweet fresh corn + hint of spice + THREE creamy cheeses = pure heaven! Plus you cook AND serve it in the same skillet. Talk about a dream come true! 

The secret? FRESH corn kernels! They have a bite and sweetness you just don't get from canned or frozen. Trust me on this one!

Pro tip: Mix everything in a separate bowl first – way easier than trying to stir in the hot skillet!

Perfect for game day, summer BBQs, taco night, or honestly anytime you need a crowd-pleasing dip! 

💬 Comment "CORNDIP" for the recipe
💾 SAVE this for your next gathering
📤 SHARE with someone who loves dip!

#CreamySkilletCornDip #CornDip #PartyDip #GameDayFood #SummerAppetizers #FreshCorn #MonterreyJack #JalapenoDip #SkilletRecipes #CreamCheeseDip #TailgatingFood #BBQAppetizers #CrowdPleasers #DipRecipes #EasyAppetizers
Authentic Spanish Ham & Cheese Croquettes (Croquet Authentic Spanish Ham & Cheese Croquettes (Croquetas) – crispy fried dumplings with prosciutto, Manchego cheese, and a creamy bechamel base!

These are the ultimate party appetizer and taste exactly like what you'd get at a tapas bar in Madrid! Crispy golden exterior meets gooey, cheesy center. That cheese pull is UNREAL!

Perfect for tapas night, game day, or any party. Frying tips included so don't be scared – just heat your oil for 10+ minutes and don't overcrowd the pan!

Pro tip: Chill the dough for 2+ hours before frying or it'll fall apart!

💬 Comment "CROQUETA" for the full recipe
💾 SAVE this for your next party
📤 SHARE with someone who loves Spanish food!

https://www.certifiedpastryaficionado.com/ham-cheese-croquettes-croquetas/

#HamCheeseCroquettes #Croquetas #SpanishFood
3-Ingredient Oreo Truffles 😍 One of my favorit 3-Ingredient Oreo Truffles 😍

One of my favorite go-to recipes! I inherited this from my old roommate back in college. She made them for me once and they suddenly took over my life, you guys! I seriously ate like 10 in one sitting. It was that day that I discovered what heartburn was! 

THE RECIPE (makes 48 truffles):

Ingredients:
-1 package Oreos (36 cookies)
-1 package (12 oz) chocolate chips
-1 package (8 oz) cream cheese

Instructions:
1️⃣ Take cream cheese out of fridge to warm slightly (NOT room temp!)
2️⃣ Crush Oreos into crumbs in food processor. Save 1/4 cup for topping
3️⃣ Mix Oreo crumbs + cream cheese with your HANDS until it forms a dough
4️⃣ Roll into balls using teaspoon or melon baller
5️⃣ Chill 10 minutes
6️⃣ Melt chocolate chips in microwave (30-sec increments)
7️⃣ Dip balls in chocolate, let excess drip off
8️⃣ Sprinkle with reserved Oreo crumbs
9️⃣ Chill 1 hour before serving
🔟 Store in fridge!

Save & Share!

#oreotruffles #easydesserts #oreorecipes #nobakedesserts 

https://www.certifiedpastryaficionado.com/3-ingredient-oreo-truffles
Well, if you're struggling this morning like I am, Well, if you're struggling this morning like I am, I have the perfect treat to get you moving and grooving!

Almond croissants are, by-far, my favorite pastry, you guys! I love the rich almond filling and the crunch you get from the sliced almonds on top. 

The secret to easy almond croissants? We're using store-bought croissants! Because the filling takes its own time to make, I see no benefit in making these more complicated by making your own croissants, as well. But if that's what you wanna do, you definitely can. I'm just here to assure you that it's definitely not necessary!

Perfect for impressing brunch guests, treating yourself on a lazy Sunday, or bringing bakery vibes into your own kitchen!

https://www.certifiedpastryaficionado.com/almond-croissants/
The Pumpkin Cheesecake Macaron! Pumpkin butter i The Pumpkin Cheesecake Macaron! 

Pumpkin butter is just like apple butter – a spreadable puree of deliciousness with tons of spices – but made with pumpkin puree instead of apple (duh). I've seen pumpkin butter sold in stores (near the jams and jellies) but it wasn't available at my store yet. 

So I just made my own using a recipe from Skinnytaste. I only made a half-batch and it was more than enough!

Side note: I've been using the leftover pumpkin butter to flavor my coffee in the mornings. Just a teaspoon goes a long way! 

Why these are special: These macarons are so delicate, yet chewy and BEYOND flavorful, you guys! Move over, pumpkin spice latte, there's a new favorite pumpkin treat in town! 

These are restaurant-quality French cookies you can make at home! Yes, they take some practice and attention to detail, but they're SO worth it! The "wow" factor alone is incredible, and they taste even better than they look!

RECIPE: https://www.certifiedpastryaficionado.com/pumpkin-cheesecake-macarons/

Copyright © 2026 Certified Pastry Aficionado · Web Design by Viva la Violet

loading Cancel
Post was not sent - check your email addresses!
Email check failed, please try again
Sorry, your blog cannot share posts by email.