COPYCAT GRAND FLORIDIAN CHOCOLATE CHIP COOKIES

Copycat Grand Floridian Hotel Chocolate Chip Cookie recipe just like from the park! Fantastic cookies that are crisp on the outside and chewy on the inside with great flavor!

Baking with lard may be a bit out of the ordinary but it is what makes these cookies stand out from other chocolate chip cookies. This chocolate chip cookie dough recipe creates a delicious treat that can transport anyone back to the luxurious surroundings of the Grand Floridian.

History of the Grand Floridian Chocolate Chip Cookies

The Grand Floridian Resort & Spa, located at Walt Disney World in Florida, is known for its luxurious amenities and classic charm. However, it is also known for its delicious chocolate chip cookies. The recipe for these cookies has been a closely guarded secret for many years, with only a select few knowing the exact ingredients and measurements. It is said that the recipe was passed down from the original pastry chef of the Grand Floridian, who created the cookies in the early 1990s.

We have done our best to recreate these incredible treats, with the use of half lard we think we came pretty close to the real thing! Whether enjoyed as a snack or as a dessert after a meal, these cookies are a testament to the timeless elegance and indulgence of the Grand Floridian Resort & Spa.

Importance of Lard in Baking

• High melting temp: Lard has several benefits that make it a great choice for baking. One of the main benefits is its high melting point. This means that it stays solid at room temperature, making it perfect for creating flaky pastries and pie crusts. Lard also has a neutral flavor, which means that it won’t overpower the other flavors in your baked goods.
• Healthy fats: Another benefit of lard is that it is high in monounsaturated fats. These are the same types of fats found in olive oil and avocado, which are known for their health benefits. Lard is also low in polyunsaturated fats, which are the fats that have been linked to heart disease.
• Great texture & neutral flavor: Lard also has a neutral flavor, which means that it won’t overpower the other flavors in your baked goods. Used in combination with butter, you get fabulous flavor with amazing texture!

Ingredients for Copycat Grand Floridian Cookies

Flour: For the structural base of this cookie dough, use 2 ½ cups of all-purpose flour.

Baking soda: Add in 1 tsp of baking soda to help these cookies rise and puff up as they bake.

Salt: Balance the incredible flavors in this dough by using ½ tsp of salt.

Butter: Use 5 TBSP of butter, softened, to create rich and moist cookies.

Lard: You need 5 TBSP of lard for more great taste and even better texture. (You can use all butter instead)

Brown sugar: Adding 1 cup of brown sugar gives this dough a wonderful depth of flavor.

Powder sugar: For more sweetness and a soft texture, use ¾ cup of powdered sugar.

Eggs: Help bind all the ingredients together by adding 2 eggs to this cookie dough.

Vanilla extract: Enhance the amazing flavors by using 2 tsp of vanilla extract.

Chocolate chips: Make sure there is plenty of chocolatey goodness in every bite by adding 12-oz of chocolate chips.

How to make Homemade Grand Floridian Chocolate Chip Cookies

Prep

Get started by lining two baking sheets with parchment paper and set them aside. Also, preheat the oven to 330°.

Dough

In a medium size mixing bowl, whisk the flour, baking soda, and salt and set it aside.

Next, use a stand mixer or an electric hand mixer to cream the butter, lard, brown sugar, and powdered sugar until light and fluffy.

Then beat in the eggs, one at a time, to the butter mixture. Mix in the vanilla extract until combined.

After that, add the flour mixture to the butter mixture. Stir well to combine. Lastly, fold in the chocolate chips.

Bake

Continue to use a 2 tablespoon cookie scoop to portion the dough into balls. Round the dough with your hands, then place them on the prepared baking sheets.

Proceed to place them in the preheated oven and bake for 12 to 14 minutes.

Allow the cookies to rest for 1 minute on the baking sheets, then transfer them to cooling racks to cool completely. Serve slightly warm and enjoy!

Variations and Substitutions for Chocolate Chip Cookies

For those who want to add a twist to the classic recipe, there are several variations that can be made. Here are a few ideas:

• Add chopped nuts: Pecans, walnuts, or almonds can be added to the cookie dough for added crunch and flavor.
• Use different types of chocolate: While the original recipe calls for semi-sweet chocolate chips, milk chocolate, dark chocolate, or white chocolate can also be used.
• Add dried fruit: Dried cranberries, raisins, or chopped apricots can be added to the dough for a fruity twist.
• Use different extracts: Instead of vanilla extract, almond extract or peppermint extract can be used for a different flavor profile.
• Make them gluten-free: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make these cookies suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.

How long are these chocolate chip cookies good for?

These cookies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze them for up to 3 months.

How does the texture of cookies change when using lard?

Using lard instead of butter in chocolate chip cookies can result in a slightly different texture. Lard has a higher melting point than butter, which means that cookies made with lard will be a bit crisper and have a more delicate texture.

Can I substitute lard for shortening in this cookie recipe?

Yes, you can substitute lard for shortening in chocolate chip cookie recipes. Lard and shortening have similar properties, so you can use them interchangeably in most recipes.

How does Lard affect flavor in cookie recipes?

Lard has a mild flavor that won’t overpower the other ingredients in a cookie recipe. When used in chocolate chip cookies, it can add a subtle richness that complements the chocolate.

Are there any health considerations when baking with lard instead of other fats?

Lard is a saturated fat, which means that it should be consumed in moderation. However, recent research has shown that lard may be a healthier option than previously thought. It contains less trans fats than many other solid fats, and it is a good source of vitamin D. As with any fat, it’s important to use lard in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

For more delicious Chocolate Cookies, try these recipes:

• Double Chocolate Chip Cookies
• Banana Chocolate Chip Cookies
• Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies
• Peanut Butter Fudge Cups
• Best Chocolate Chip Cookies
• Raspberry Chocolate Chip Cookies
• Peanut Butter Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookies
• Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars
• Avocado Chocolate Chip Cookies
• Peanut Butter M&M Cookies
• Chocolate Cake Mix Cookies
• Butter Pecan Chocolate Chip Cookies
• Nutter Butter Chocolate Chip Peanut Butter Cookies
• Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars
• Mint Chocolate Chip Cookies
• Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies
• Cherry Chocolate Chip Cookies
• Rice Krispie Chocolate Chip Peanut Butter Cookies
• Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookies

Copycat Grand Floridian Chocolate Chip Cookies are a delightful treat that is sure to transport you back to the happiest place on earth on your first bite! This chocolate chip cookie dough recipe is made with a combination of butter and lard, making for a unique and flavorful experience.