Chocolate Chip Cookies
There’s something undeniably comforting about a freshly baked chocolate chip cookie. Imagine the warm aroma wafting through your kitchen as soft, buttery cookies bake to golden perfection. Each bite of these cookies delivers a delightful combination of crispy edges and a chewy center, generously studded with gooey chocolate chips. Whether you are looking for a fun activity with the kids, a sweet treat for a family gathering, or simply a snack to indulge in, these chocolate chip cookies are perfect for any occasion. Easy to make and hard to resist, they will quickly become a beloved staple in your recipe collection.
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened: This gives your cookies a rich and creamy texture.
- 3/4 cup brown sugar: It adds moisture and a deep, caramel-like flavor.
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar: It provides sweetness and helps achieve a light crispiness.
- 2 large eggs: They bind the ingredients together and contribute to a soft texture.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: This enhances the overall flavor with a lovely aroma.
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour: The base for the cookies, providing structure.
- 1 teaspoon baking soda: It acts as a leavening agent for a fluffy cookie.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: It balances the sweetness and intensifies the flavors.
- 2 cups chocolate chips: The star ingredient, offering an irresistible chocolatey goodness.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
- In another bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually mix this dry mixture into the butter and sugar mixture until just blended.
- Gently fold in the chocolate chips using a spatula or wooden spoon.
- Drop rounded tablespoons of cookie dough onto ungreased cookie sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 9 to 11 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the centers are set but still soft.
- Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.
Recipe Details
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Servings: Approximately 24 cookies
- Calories: Approximately 150 calories per cookie
Tips, Storage & Variations
- Tip: For an extra chewy cookie, chill the dough for at least 30 minutes before baking.
- Storage: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
- Freezing: Dough can be frozen for up to 3 months. Scoop dough onto a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen, adding a couple of minutes to the cooking time.
- Variations: Try adding nuts like walnuts or pecans for extra crunch. You can also mix in a cup of oats for a different texture.
FAQ
1. Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?
Yes, but reduce the salt in the recipe to maintain balance.
2. How should I store leftover cookies?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
3. Can I freeze these cookies?
Yes, cookie dough can be frozen for up to 3 months. Bake from frozen by adding a couple of minutes to the baking time.
4. What if I don’t have brown sugar?
You can substitute with an equal amount of granulated sugar, but the flavor and texture may vary slightly.
5. How do I know when the cookies are done?
They are done when the edges are golden but the centers look slightly underbaked. They will firm up as they cool.
6. Can I use chocolate chunks instead of chips?
Absolutely! Chocolate chunks can add a delicious rustic texture.
People Also Ask
1. What makes cookies chewy?
A higher ratio of brown sugar or adding an extra egg yolk can enhance chewiness.
2. How long will baked cookies last?
Freshly baked cookies will usually last about a week in an airtight container at room temperature.
3. Can I substitute flour with gluten-free options?
Yes, you can try using a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend.
4. What temperature should I bake cookies?
Most cookies are best baked at 350°F (175°C).
5. How should I cool my cookies after baking?
Cool on a wire rack to prevent steaming and sogginess.
6. Is it better to chill cookie dough?
Chilling the dough can enhance flavor and improve texture by solidifying the fat.
Conclusion
There you have it—a classic chocolate chip cookie recipe that is both simple to follow and incredibly rewarding. From the first mix to the last bite, baking these cookies is a joyful experience. So gather your ingredients, get your family involved, and whip up a batch today. We hope you love them as much as we do. Happy baking!