Chocolate Chip Cookie Recipe
Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts
Indulge in the classic delight of homemade chocolate chip cookies. This recipe delivers soft, chewy cookies loaded with rich chocolate chips, perfect for any occasion.
Chocolate chip cookies have been a beloved treat for generations. The combination of buttery, sweet dough and gooey chocolate chips creates a comfort food that resonates with many. Whether enjoyed warm from the oven or as a snack later, these cookies are sure to bring a smile to anyone's face.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Classic flavor that never goes out of style
- Perfectly chewy texture with melty chocolate
- Simple ingredients that are easy to find
The Joy of Baking Cookies
Baking cookies is not just about creating delicious treats; it's an experience that brings joy and satisfaction. The aroma of freshly baked cookies wafting through your home can evoke memories of childhood and family gatherings. This chocolate chip cookie recipe is a timeless classic that can create moments of happiness for you and your loved ones.
Whether you are baking for a special occasion or simply want to indulge yourself, the process of mixing ingredients and watching the dough transform into golden-brown cookies is truly rewarding. Plus, these cookies are perfect for sharing with friends or as a sweet surprise for family members. Everyone loves a warm, homemade chocolate chip cookie!
Perfecting Your Cookie Technique
To achieve the perfect texture, it's essential to measure your ingredients accurately. Using the right amount of flour and butter will ensure that your cookies come out soft and chewy, rather than dry or crumbly. Additionally, letting the dough rest for a short period before baking can enhance the flavors and improve the overall texture.
Don't forget that baking times can vary depending on your oven and the size of the cookie dough balls. Keep a close eye on your cookies as they bake, and remember that they will continue to firm up as they cool. Trust your instincts and adjust your baking time as needed to achieve that perfect golden-brown finish.
Storing and Serving Your Cookies
Once your chocolate chip cookies are baked and cooled, it's important to store them properly to maintain their freshness. Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them! Just place the cooled cookies in a freezer-safe bag, and they can last for up to three months.
When serving your cookies, consider pairing them with a glass of cold milk or a scoop of ice cream for an extra indulgent treat. You can also get creative by adding nuts, dried fruits, or different types of chocolate chips to the dough. The possibilities are endless, and experimenting with variations can make each batch a delightful surprise!
Ingredients
For the Cookies
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup packed brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 large eggs
- 2 cups semisweet chocolate chips
Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature for the best results.
Instructions
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Mix Dry Ingredients
In a small bowl, whisk together the flour and baking soda. Set aside.
Cream Butter and Sugars
In a large bowl, beat the softened butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and salt until creamy.
Add Eggs and Vanilla
Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
Combine Ingredients
Gradually add the flour mixture to the butter mixture, mixing just until combined. Fold in the chocolate chips.
Scoop and Bake
Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 9-11 minutes or until golden brown.
Cool and Enjoy
Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Enjoy your freshly baked cookies with a glass of milk!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
One of the most common mistakes when baking cookies is overmixing the dough. Once you combine the wet and dry ingredients, mix just until combined to ensure your cookies remain tender. Overmixing can lead to a tougher texture, diminishing that delightful chewiness we love.
Another pitfall is not properly measuring the flour. Too much flour can result in dry cookies, while too little can cause them to spread too much during baking. For best results, spoon the flour into your measuring cup and level it off with a knife for accuracy.
Variations You Can Try
While this recipe is for classic chocolate chip cookies, there are numerous variations you can explore. Consider adding nuts like walnuts or pecans for added crunch and flavor. Alternatively, you can mix in different types of chocolate, such as white chocolate or dark chocolate, to create a unique twist on this beloved treat.
For a fun seasonal flair, try incorporating spices like cinnamon or pumpkin spice during the fall or a hint of peppermint extract during the holidays. These small adjustments can elevate your cookies and make them perfect for any occasion!
Pairing Suggestions
Chocolate chip cookies are incredibly versatile and can be paired with a variety of beverages. A classic choice is a tall glass of cold milk, which complements the rich chocolate perfectly. For a more grown-up twist, consider serving your cookies with a cup of coffee or espresso, which can enhance the chocolate flavor.
If you're feeling adventurous, try pairing your cookies with a dessert wine or a scoop of ice cream for a decadent sundae. The combination of warm cookies and cold ice cream creates a delightful contrast that is sure to impress your guests!
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes, you can substitute up to half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a healthier option.
→ How do I store leftover cookies?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
→ Can I freeze the cookie dough?
Absolutely! You can freeze the dough for up to 3 months. Just scoop the dough onto a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag.
→ What can I substitute for eggs?
You can use flaxseed meal mixed with water as a vegan substitute; 1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water equals one egg.
Chocolate Chip Cookie Recipe
Indulge in the classic delight of homemade chocolate chip cookies. This recipe delivers soft, chewy cookies loaded with rich chocolate chips, perfect for any occasion.
Created by: Josie Lambert
Recipe Type: Baking & Desserts
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 24 cookies
What You'll Need
For the Cookies
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup packed brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 large eggs
- 2 cups semisweet chocolate chips
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a small bowl, whisk together the flour and baking soda. Set aside.
In a large bowl, beat the softened butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and salt until creamy.
Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
Gradually add the flour mixture to the butter mixture, mixing just until combined. Fold in the chocolate chips.
Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 9-11 minutes or until golden brown.
Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 150 kcal
- Total Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
- Sodium: 90mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 18g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 10g
- Protein: 2g