Chocolate Chip Cookies

There’s nothing quite like the warm, inviting aroma of freshly baked chocolate chip cookies wafting through your home. These classic cookies are a simple delight, featuring a crisp exterior and a soft, chewy center studded with rich, gooey chocolate chips. Whether you’re indulging in a cozy evening at home, celebrating a special occasion, or simply satisfying a sweet tooth, this chocolate chip cookie recipe is perfect for any moment. The balance of buttery flavor, caramel sweetness from brown sugar, and the decadent chocolate make every bite irresistible. Grab a glass of milk and get ready for a timeless treat that never goes out of style!

Ingredients

1 cup unsalted butter, softened: Adds richness and moisture, creating a tender cookie.
3/4 cup brown sugar: Provides a deeper, caramel-like flavor and contributes to the chewiness.
3/4 cup granulated sugar: Balances the sweetness and adds to the cookie’s structure.
2 large eggs: Binds the ingredients together, adding moisture and richness.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the flavor and aroma of the cookies.
2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour: Forms the base of the cookie, giving it the right texture.
1 teaspoon baking soda: Acts as a leavening agent, helping the cookies to rise.
1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances all flavors in the cookie.
2 cups chocolate chips: The star ingredient that adds bursts of melting chocolate 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 smooth and creamy. This will create a fluffy texture.
Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition, then 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. Avoid overmixing to ensure a tender cookie.
Gently fold in the chocolate chips using a spatula or wooden spoon until evenly distributed.
Drop rounded tablespoons of cookie dough onto ungreased cookie sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart to allow for spreading.
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. Keep an eye on them to avoid overbaking.
Allow the 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: 11 minutes
Total Time: 26 minutes
Servings: About 24 cookies
Calories: Approximately 150 calories per cookie

Tips, Storage & Variations

Tips: Use room temperature butter for easier creaming. If your cookies appear too flat, try chilling the dough for about 30 minutes before baking.
Storage: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week to keep them soft.
Freezing: Freeze cookie dough balls individually on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer bag for up to three months. Bake from frozen, adding a couple of extra minutes to the baking time.
Variations: For a twist, try adding nuts (like walnuts or pecans) or swapping half the chocolate chips for butterscotch or peanut butter chips.

FAQ

Chocolate Chip Cookies

How do I prevent my cookies from spreading too much?
Chill your dough before baking, and ensure your butter is not too warm.
Can I use cold butter for this recipe?
Softened butter is recommended for the best texture. Avoid cold butter as it won’t cream properly.
What type of chocolate chips are best?
Semi-sweet chocolate chips are traditional, but feel free to use milk chocolate or dark chocolate for different flavors.
Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Yes, substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
How long can I store the baked cookies?
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week for optimal freshness.
Can I double this recipe?
Yes, simply double all the ingredients and adjust your baking time if needed based on your oven.