Indulge in the classic comfort of freshly baked chocolate chip cookies with our best chocolate chip cookie recipe. These cookies are soft, chewy, and packed with rich chocolate chips, making them a delightful treat for any occasion. Whether you’re baking for a party or simply craving something sweet, this recipe will deliver cookies that are sure to please. Gather your ingredients and get ready to enjoy the irresistible aroma of cookies baking in the oven!
Ingredients
– 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 pure vanilla extract
– 2 large eggs
– 2 cups semisweet chocolate chips
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe yields about 24 cookies. Preparation time is approximately 15 minutes, and cooking time is around 10-12 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each cookie (serving size: 1 cookie) contains approximately:
– Calories: 150
– Total Fat: 7g
– Saturated Fat: 4g
– Cholesterol: 20mg
– Sodium: 100mg
– Total Carbohydrates: 20g
– Dietary Fiber: 1g
– Sugars: 10g
– Protein: 2g
(Note: Values are approximate and may vary based on ingredients used.)
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the flour and baking soda; set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream the softened butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and salt until light and fluffy.
4. Add the vanilla extract and eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
5. Gradually blend in the flour mixture until just combined.
6. Stir in the chocolate chips until evenly distributed.
7. Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto ungreased baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
8. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes or until golden brown.
9. Remove from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
10. Enjoy your delicious cookies while warm!
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour for a gluten-free option. Additionally, use dairy-free chocolate chips for a vegan version. Applesauce can replace butter for a healthier alternative while keeping the cookies moist.
Serving and Pairings
These chocolate chip cookies pair perfectly with a glass of cold milk, a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or a warm cup of coffee. They also make an excellent addition to dessert platters at gatherings.
Storage and Reheating
Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. For longer storage, freeze them for up to three months. To reheat, simply pop them in the microwave for a few seconds or warm them in the oven at 350°F for a few minutes.
Cooking Mistakes
- Don’t overmix the dough; it can lead to tough cookies.
- Ensure butter is softened, not melted, for the right texture.
- Measure flour properly; too much can make cookies dry.
- Don’t skip chilling the dough if the kitchen is warm.
- Use parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Check cookies a minute or two before the suggested baking time.
- Let cookies cool on the baking sheet before transferring.
Helpful Tips
- Experiment with different types of chocolate chips for varied flavor.
- Try adding nuts for extra crunch.
- Use a cookie scoop for uniform cookie sizes.
- For chewier cookies, slightly underbake them.
- Store cookies with a slice of bread to keep them soft.
FAQs
Can I use brown sugar only for this recipe?
Yes, you can use only brown sugar; it will make the cookies chewier and add a deeper flavor. However, the cookies may be denser.
How can I make my cookies more crispy?
To achieve a crispier texture, use less brown sugar and bake the cookies a bit longer until they are golden brown.
Can I freeze cookie dough?
Absolutely! You can freeze the cookie dough for up to three months. Just scoop the dough onto a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag.
What should I do if my cookies spread too much?
If your cookies spread too much, try chilling the dough for at least 30 minutes before baking, and ensure your baking soda is fresh.
Can I add other ingredients like oats or coconut?
Yes, feel free to add oats, shredded coconut, or even dried fruits. Just be mindful of the balance with other ingredients.
Conclusion
This best chocolate chip cookie recipe is sure to become a favorite in your home. With a perfect balance of sweetness and texture, these cookies are ideal for any occasion. Enjoy the process of baking and the delight of sharing these treats with loved ones!
Best Chocolate Chip Cookie Recipe
Ingredients
- 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 pure vanilla extract
- 2 large eggs
- 2 cups semisweet chocolate chips
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a small bowl, whisk together the flour and baking soda; set aside.
- In a large bowl, cream the softened butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and salt until light and fluffy.
- Add the vanilla extract and eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- Gradually blend in the flour mixture until just combined.
- Stir in the chocolate chips until evenly distributed.
- Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto ungreased baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes or until golden brown.
- Remove from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
- Enjoy your delicious cookies while warm!
