There’s something magical about the smell of freshly baked chocolate chip cookies, and these cookies are no exception. Soft and chewy with just the right amount of crunch at the edges, they are studded with semi-sweet chocolate chips that melt into the dough, creating the ultimate comfort food experience.
Whether you’re enjoying them with a glass of milk or sharing them with friends and family, these cookies are guaranteed to satisfy your sweet tooth. Perfect for any occasion, from a cozy night in to a festive holiday gathering, this recipe is sure to become a household favorite. Feel free to customize them by adding nuts, raisins, or even a sprinkle of sea salt on top to make them your own!
Full recipe:
Ingredients:
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1 cup unsalted butter, softened
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3/4 cup granulated sugar
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3/4 cup packed light brown sugar
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2 teaspoons vanilla extract
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2 large eggs
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2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
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1 teaspoon baking soda
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1/2 teaspoon salt
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2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
Directions:
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Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
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In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
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Add in the vanilla extract and eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition.
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In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until combined.
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Stir in the chocolate chips.
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Drop tablespoon-sized scoops of dough onto an ungreased baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
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Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are golden brown but the centers are still soft.
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Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 12 minutes | Total Time: 27 minutes
Kcal: 180 kcal per cookie | Servings: 24 cookies
Chocolate Chip Cookies: The Ultimate Comfort Treat
Chocolate chip cookies are a beloved classic that has won hearts around the world. With their perfect balance of soft, chewy texture and crisp golden edges, they offer a comforting taste that never goes out of style. Whether you’re baking them for a special occasion, as an everyday snack, or just to enjoy with a cup of coffee, chocolate chip cookies are a treat that brings joy and nostalgia. This recipe, in particular, is a foolproof way to create delicious, melt-in-your-mouth cookies that are sure to impress anyone who takes a bite.
The History of Chocolate Chip Cookies
The origins of the chocolate chip cookie can be traced back to the 1930s when Ruth Wakefield, the owner of the Toll House Inn in Massachusetts, invented the iconic cookie. According to the story, Ruth was preparing her famous butter drop dough cookies when she ran out of baker’s chocolate and decided to chop up a bar of Nestlé chocolate instead. The chocolate didn’t melt completely, creating the perfect little pockets of chocolate in each bite.
Her cookies became an instant hit, and soon after, Nestlé approached her to sell the recipe and give her a lifetime supply of chocolate. Ruth agreed, and thus, the world’s most famous cookie was born. To this day, the Nestlé Toll House brand remains synonymous with chocolate chip cookies. Ruth’s creation has since evolved and inspired countless variations of this iconic dessert.
Why This Chocolate Chip Cookie Recipe is the Best
There are many chocolate chip cookie recipes out there, but this one stands out for a few key reasons. The balance of ingredients is crucial in creating the perfect cookie. In this recipe, we combine butter, sugars, and eggs to create a dough that is both rich and soft, with just the right amount of sweetness. By using both granulated sugar and brown sugar, the cookies develop a complex flavor profile that is slightly caramelized and deeply satisfying.
This recipe also emphasizes the importance of chilling the dough before baking. While it may seem like an extra step, letting the dough chill for at least 30 minutes allows the flour to absorb the moisture from the butter, resulting in a thicker dough that holds its shape during baking. This step ensures that your cookies come out chewy on the inside with perfectly crisp edges.
Additionally, the use of semi-sweet chocolate chips is key. Their slightly bitter flavor balances out the sweetness of the dough, giving you that perfect contrast of flavors that chocolate chip cookies are known for. Of course, feel free to experiment with other types of chocolate, such as milk or dark chocolate, to cater to your personal preferences.
Health Benefits of Chocolate Chip Cookies
While chocolate chip cookies are undoubtedly a treat, they can offer some surprising health benefits when consumed in moderation. Dark chocolate, in particular, is packed with antioxidants and has been shown to improve heart health, lower blood pressure, and even boost mood. The cookies in this recipe contain a moderate amount of sugar and butter, which is why they should be enjoyed in moderation.
Moreover, homemade cookies allow you to control the quality of ingredients. By using high-quality chocolate, organic butter, and real vanilla extract, you can avoid some of the unnecessary preservatives and additives found in store-bought cookies. This recipe provides a much fresher and more flavorful alternative to pre-packaged treats.
Perfect Pairings for Chocolate Chip Cookies
Chocolate chip cookies can be enjoyed in many ways, making them versatile and ideal for any occasion. A classic pairing is with a glass of cold milk, as the creamy texture complements the chewy cookie perfectly. If you’re looking to elevate the experience, try pairing your cookies with a hot beverage like coffee, tea, or even a glass of red wine. The rich flavor of the cookie can complement the bitterness of coffee or the fruity notes of wine, creating a delightful contrast.
For a fun twist, consider making cookie ice cream sandwiches. Simply take two freshly baked chocolate chip cookies and sandwich a scoop of your favorite ice cream in between. The warm, soft cookies and the cold, creamy ice cream create an indulgent dessert that’s perfect for hot summer days.
How to Customize Chocolate Chip Cookies
One of the best things about chocolate chip cookies is how easily you can customize them to suit your taste preferences. While this recipe is delicious as is, you can make small changes to create a unique version of the cookie. Here are a few ideas:
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Add nuts: Walnuts or pecans add a delicious crunch to the chewy cookies, creating a wonderful contrast in texture.
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Use different types of chocolate: Try using milk chocolate, white chocolate, or even a mix of chocolate types for a different flavor.
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Experiment with add-ins: For a fun twist, try adding dried fruit like cranberries or raisins, or even a sprinkle of sea salt on top for a sweet-salty flavor.
Feel free to get creative and use whatever ingredients you love. This recipe is the perfect base for countless variations, allowing you to tailor it to your own preferences.
Baking Tips for Perfect Chocolate Chip Cookies
To ensure your chocolate chip cookies turn out perfectly every time, here are a few tips to keep in mind:
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Measure your ingredients properly: Too much flour or too little sugar can affect the texture of your cookies. Use a kitchen scale if you have one to get the most accurate measurements.
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Don’t overmix the dough: Once you add the dry ingredients to the wet, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to dense cookies.
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Chill the dough: As mentioned earlier, chilling the dough is crucial for thick, chewy cookies. Don’t skip this step if you want the best texture.
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Use a cookie scoop: To ensure uniform cookie sizes, use a cookie scoop or tablespoon to drop the dough onto the baking sheet. This will help the cookies bake evenly.
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Check for doneness: Chocolate chip cookies should be golden brown around the edges but still soft in the middle. They will continue to cook on the baking sheet once removed from the oven, so don’t worry if they seem slightly undercooked when you take them out.
How to Store and Freeze Chocolate Chip Cookies
If you have leftover cookies (which is rare!), store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. They’ll stay fresh and chewy for several days. For longer storage, you can freeze your baked cookies. Simply place them in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, and then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw at room temperature for a few hours, or pop them in the microwave for a few seconds to warm them up.
Alternatively, you can freeze the dough for later use. After chilling the dough, scoop it into balls and freeze the dough balls on a baking sheet. Once they’re solid, transfer them to a freezer bag. When you want to bake fresh cookies, just place the dough balls on a baking sheet and bake as directed. You may need to add a minute or two to the baking time since the dough will be frozen.
Conclusion
Chocolate chip cookies are the ultimate comfort treat that has stood the test of time. With their simple yet irresistible combination of soft dough and gooey chocolate chips, they have become a staple in homes around the world. This recipe delivers on flavor, texture, and ease of preparation, making it the perfect choice for beginners and seasoned bakers alike. By following the tips and customizing the cookies to your liking, you can create the perfect batch every time. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion, as a quick snack, or just to indulge in a comforting treat, chocolate chip cookies are always a good idea.