Minnesota State Fair Cookies have always held a special place in my heart, evoking memories of warm summer evenings and the bustling energy of the fairgrounds. I remember the first time I bit into one of those giant, chewy chocolate chip cookies; the crisp edges, the soft, melt-in-your-mouth center, and the abundance of mini chocolate chips were pure magic. That moment sparked a mission to create my own copycat Minnesota State Fair cookie recipe at home. After countless attempts, I’ve finally perfected a recipe that captures that nostalgic flavor and texture. This easy ground turkey dinner brings that same joy and warmth to my kitchen. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love These Minnesota State Fair Cookies

I’m so excited for you to try these cookies because they bring all the joy of the fair right into your kitchen! Here’s why I know you’ll adore this recipe:

They offer an irresistible taste with that perfect balance of chewy and crisp, just like the originals.
This is truly one of the best Minnesota State Fair cookies recipes for achieving an authentic flavor.
The prep time is surprisingly quick, making them ideal for a spontaneous baking session.
While not a health food, they’re a delightful treat to enjoy in moderation.
Making these at home is far more budget-friendly than buying them at the fair!
They are incredibly family-friendly; everyone, from kids to adults, will agree these are the best Minnesota State Fair cookies.
The simple steps make this a fantastic recipe for bakers of all skill levels.

Ingredients for Minnesota State Fair Cookies

To make these irresistible Minnesota State Fair Cookies, you’ll need a few key ingredients. I’ve found that using a combination of butter and shortening is crucial for achieving that signature texture, giving you the perfect balance of crisp edges and a soft, chewy center. Here are the Minnesota State Fair cookie ingredients you’ll want to gather:

1/2 cup unsalted butter, room temperature – This provides rich flavor and helps with browning.
1/2 cup butter-flavored shortening – Essential for that classic fair-style chewiness and to prevent spreading too much.
1 1/4 cups granulated sugar – For sweetness and a subtle crispness.
3/4 cup brown sugar – Adds moisture and a deep, caramel-like flavor to your Minnesota State Fair cookie recipe.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Enhances all the other flavors.
2 large eggs, room temperature – Binds everything together and adds richness.
2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour – The structural base for these delicious cookies.
1 teaspoon baking soda – Helps the cookies rise and achieve a soft texture.
1/2 teaspoon salt – Balances the sweetness and brings out the chocolate flavor.
1 1/2 cups mini chocolate chips – I prefer mini chips for even distribution in every bite of these amazing Minnesota State Fair Cookies.

How to Make Minnesota State Fair Cookies

Making these delightful cookies is a straightforward process, and I promise you’ll love every step as your kitchen fills with the sweet aroma of baking. If you’re wondering how to make Minnesota State Fair cookies that truly capture the essence of the fair, follow these detailed instructions carefully. I’ve broken it down so it’s super easy to achieve that perfect chewy, crisp, and utterly delicious result.

Step 1: First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it’s heating, line two baking sheets with parchment paper. This simple trick makes for easy cleanup and helps prevent your Minnesota State Fair cookies from sticking.
Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, combine the room temperature butter, butter-flavored shortening, granulated sugar, and brown sugar. Beat these together with an electric mixer until the mixture is light and fluffy, usually about 2-3 minutes. This creaming process is vital for creating those soft and airy Minnesota State Fair cookies you crave.
Step 3: Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition until fully incorporated. Then, stir in the vanilla extract. The mixture should look smooth and well-blended at this point.
Step 4: In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. Make sure these dry ingredients are thoroughly combined.
Step 5: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix the dough, as this can lead to tough cookies. We want tender, giant chocolate chip cookies, Minnesota State Fair style!
Step 6: Gently fold in the mini chocolate chips until they are evenly distributed throughout the dough. These mini chips ensure you get chocolate in every single bite of your Minnesota State Fair cookies.
Step 7: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the dough for at least 30 minutes. This chilling period is a secret to how to make Minnesota State Fair cookies that hold their shape beautifully and develop a richer flavor. It also prevents them from spreading too much.
Step 8: Once chilled, scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough. Roll each portion into a smooth ball and place them about 2 inches apart on your prepared baking sheets.
Step 9: Bake for 6–8 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden but the centers still look slightly soft and puffy. Don’t worry if they seem a little underdone; they will continue to set as they cool.
Step 10: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This helps them firm up without breaking. Now, you can enjoy your perfectly baked Minnesota State Fair cookies!

Deliciously golden-brown Minnesota State Fair Cookies cooling on a wire rack, ready to be enjoyed.

Pro Tips for the Best Minnesota State Fair Cookies

I’ve learned a few tricks over the years that truly elevate these cookies from good to absolutely amazing. These pro tips will help you achieve that authentic fairground taste and texture every single time you bake Minnesota State Fair Cookies.

Always use room temperature butter and eggs. This helps them cream together smoothly, creating a more uniform and tender dough.
Don’t skip the shortening! It’s key to that classic chewy texture and helps prevent the cookies from spreading too much.
Chilling the dough is non-negotiable. It deepens the flavor and ensures your cookies hold their shape beautifully.
Use mini chocolate chips for an even distribution of chocolate in every bite.
Don’t overbake! Pull them from the oven when the edges are just golden and the centers still look slightly soft.

What’s the secret to perfect Minnesota State Fair Cookies?

The real secret lies in the butter-shortening blend and the chilling time. The shortening gives them that distinct chewiness and helps maintain their shape, while chilling develops flavor and ensures a thicker, more satisfying cookie. These steps are crucial for truly authentic Minnesota State Fair cookies.

Can I make Minnesota State Fair Cookies ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dough up to 3 days in advance. Just store it tightly covered in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to bake, scoop and bake as directed, or allow the dough to sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes to soften slightly if it’s too firm.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Minnesota State Fair Cookies?

Firstly, avoid overmixing the dough; too much mixing can lead to tough cookies. Secondly, don’t skimp on the chilling time – it’s vital for texture and preventing excessive spreading. Lastly, resist the urge to overbake; underbaked cookies are wonderfully chewy, while overbaked ones become dry and hard.

A close-up of a stack of freshly baked Minnesota State Fair Cookies, showcasing their soft centers and crisp edges.

Best Ways to Serve Minnesota State Fair Cookies

Once your kitchen is filled with the irresistible aroma of freshly baked Minnesota State Fair Cookies, you’ll be eager to enjoy them! While they are absolutely perfect on their own, I’ve found a few ways to elevate the experience even further. These cookies are truly versatile, making them a fantastic treat for any occasion.

For a classic pairing, serve these warm cookies with a tall, cold glass of milk. The creamy milk perfectly complements the rich, buttery flavor of the cookies. Another delightful option for these giant chocolate chip cookies Minnesota State Fair style is to turn them into ice cream sandwiches. Simply place a scoop of your favorite vanilla or chocolate ice cream between two slightly cooled cookies for an indulgent dessert.

They also make a wonderful addition to any dessert platter, especially when accompanied by fresh berries or a dollop of whipped cream. Whether you’re sharing them with friends or enjoying a quiet moment, these Minnesota State Fair Cookies are sure to bring a smile to your face.

Nutrition Facts for Minnesota State Fair Cookies

I know many of you are curious about the nutritional breakdown of these delightful treats. While we’re indulging in these amazing Minnesota State Fair Cookies, it’s good to have an idea of what each serving provides. Based on my recipe, here’s an estimate per serving:

Serving Size: 1 cookie
Calories: 170
Protein: 2 g
Fat: 8 g
Saturated Fat: 4 g
Unsaturated Fat: 3 g
Trans Fat: 0 g
Carbohydrates: 22 g
Fiber: 0 g
Sugar: 15 g
Sodium: 95 mg
Cholesterol: 25 mg

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used, especially for these delicious Minnesota State Fair Cookies.

How to Store and Reheat Minnesota State Fair Cookies

Once you’ve baked a batch of these incredible Minnesota State Fair Cookies, you’ll want to make sure they stay fresh and delicious for as long as possible! Proper storage is key to preserving their perfect texture and flavor. I always let my cookies cool completely on a wire rack before putting them away, as trapping warmth can make them soggy.

For short-term storage, place your cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay wonderfully fresh for 3-4 days this way. If you’ve made a larger batch or want to enjoy them later, these Minnesota State Fair Cookies freeze beautifully. You can freeze the baked cookies for up to 3 months by wrapping them individually in plastic wrap and then placing them in a freezer-safe bag or container.

You can also freeze the raw Minnesota State Fair cookie dough. Simply scoop the dough balls onto a parchment-lined baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen, adding a couple of extra minutes to the baking time. To reheat baked cookies, pop them in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5-7 minutes, or microwave for 10-15 seconds for that fresh-from-the-oven feel.

Frequently Asked Questions About Minnesota State Fair Cookies

What are Minnesota State Fair cookies?

Minnesota State Fair cookies are large, chewy chocolate chip cookies renowned for their perfect balance of crisp edges and soft centers. They’re a beloved staple at the Minnesota State Fair, famous for their generous size and abundance of mini chocolate chips. My recipe aims to replicate this iconic fairground treat so you can enjoy them at home.

Why are Minnesota State Fair cookies so popular?

Their popularity stems from several factors. Beyond their delicious taste and satisfying texture, these cookies evoke a sense of nostalgia and tradition associated with the fair experience. The combination of butter and shortening creates a unique chewiness, making them a standout among other chocolate chip cookies. It’s truly a memorable treat.

Can I use regular chocolate chips instead of mini ones?

While you certainly can, I highly recommend sticking to mini chocolate chips for these Minnesota State Fair Cookies. The smaller chips ensure that you get a perfect amount of chocolate in every bite, distributing the sweetness more evenly throughout the cookie. Larger chips might create pockets of intense chocolate, altering the classic fair experience.

What makes these Minnesota State Fair cookie recipes different from other chocolate chip cookies?

The key differences lie in the use of butter-flavored shortening alongside butter, which gives them their signature chewy yet crisp texture. Also, the emphasis on mini chocolate chips and often a slight underbaking ensures that soft, gooey center. These specific elements are what truly define an authentic Minnesota State Fair cookie recipe.

Variations of Minnesota State Fair Cookies You Can Try

While the classic Minnesota State Fair Cookies are truly perfect as is, sometimes it’s fun to experiment with different flavors and twists! Here are a few variations I’ve tried that are equally delicious and can make your easy Minnesota State Fair cookie recipe even more exciting. These ideas are great for customizing your batch for different tastes or occasions.

Nutty Delight: For an added crunch and depth of flavor, fold in 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans along with the mini chocolate chips. The nuts complement the rich butter and chocolate beautifully.
S’mores Style: After taking your cookies out of the oven, immediately top them with a few mini marshmallows and a sprinkle of graham cracker crumbs. Return them to the oven for 1-2 minutes until the marshmallows are lightly toasted and gooey.
Peanut Butter Swirl: Reduce the butter by 1/4 cup and add 1/4 cup of creamy peanut butter to the creaming step. This creates a delightful peanut butter version of your favorite Minnesota State Fair Cookies.
Holiday Spice: Add 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon and 1/2 teaspoon of nutmeg to the dry ingredients for a warm, spiced cookie perfect for cooler weather. You can even swap out some chocolate chips for white chocolate chips for a festive touch.

1 Perfect Minnesota State Fair Cookies: A Sweet Joy!

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Author: Michael
Total Time: 53 minutes
Yield: 24 cookies 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

These Minnesota State Fair cookies are soft, chewy, and buttery, featuring crisp edges and plenty of mini chocolate chips. They are made with a mix of butter and shortening for the perfect fair-style texture, offering a nostalgic, easy-to-bake, and absolutely irresistible treat. You will love how this Minnesota State Fair cookie recipe delivers a perfect balance between chewy and crisp.

Ingredients

Scale

1/2 cup unsalted butter, room temperature
1/2 cup butter-flavored shortening
1 1/4 cups granulated sugar
3/4 cup brown sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 large eggs, room temperature
2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 1/2 cups mini chocolate chips

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Instructions

In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter, shortening, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy. This step helps create soft and airy Minnesota State Fair cookies.
Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until just combined. Avoid overmixing the dough for these homemade Minnesota State Fair cookies.
Gently fold in the mini chocolate chips evenly.
Cover and refrigerate the dough for at least 30 minutes to firm up. Chilling helps the Minnesota State Fair cookie dough hold its shape and prevents spreading.
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough, roll them into balls, and place them 2 inches apart on the prepared sheets to make your Minnesota State Fair cookies.
Bake for 6–8 minutes, until the edges are lightly golden but the centers are still soft. These giant chocolate chip cookies from the Minnesota State Fair will firm up as they cool.
Cool on the pan for a few minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy your authentic Minnesota State Fair cookies!

Notes

Chilling the dough helps prevent spreading and creates a chewier texture for your Minnesota State Fair cookies.
Use mini chocolate chips for even chocolate distribution in every bite of these State Fair cookie recipes.
Add chopped nuts, candies, or drizzle with melted chocolate for fun variations of your Minnesota State Fair cookie recipe.
Store cookies at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 5 days, or freeze dough for up to 3 months.
Bake frozen dough balls straight from the freezer, adding 1–2 extra minutes to the baking time for your copycat Minnesota State Fair cookies.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 8 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American