• Ready to bake? Let’s get into the nitty-gritty of making these cookies that could rival Zaxby’s very own.

Step 1: Prep Your Kitchen

• Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Next, line your baking sheets with parchment paper. This helps prevent sticking and makes cleanup easier.

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugars

• In a large bowl, combine the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar. Blend them on medium speed until they’re light and fluffy. This step is crucial; it incorporates air into your mixture, creating a nice rise.

Step 3: Add the Eggs and Vanilla

• Mix in the eggs, one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated. Then, add the vanilla extract. Remember, quality counts! Using pure vanilla will enhance that lovely flavor.

Step 4: Combine the Dry Ingredients

• In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, cinnamon, baking soda, and sea salt. This helps ensure even distribution of the ingredients, which is key to a uniform cookie dough.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

• Slowly add the dry ingredient mix to the creamed mixture. Mix just until combined, being careful not to over-mix. Overworking the dough can lead to tough cookies.

Step 6: Add the Chocolate Chunks

• Time to throw in the fun—gently fold in the milk and semi-sweet chocolate chunks. This step brings texture and melts some wonderful chocolate surprises into each cookie.

Step 7: Scoop and Bake

• Using a cookie scoop or spoon, drop mounds of dough onto your prepared baking sheets. Give them enough space; they’ll spread as they bake. Pop them in the oven for about 10-12 minutes. Aim for a slightly underbaked center for optimal gooeyness.

Step 8: Cool and Enjoy

• Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. Enjoy while they’re slightly warm. Trust me, the melted chocolate will be transformative.