Introduction
There’s something truly magical about the aroma of freshly baked cookies wafting through the house. These Giant Chewy Chocolate Chip Cookies are the perfect blend of soft, gooey centers and crispy edges, creating an irresistible treat for cookie lovers everywhere. Made with simple ingredients, these cookies promise a burst of rich chocolatey flavor in every bite. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just to indulge in a sweet moment, these cookies are sure to bring smiles all around.
Ingredients
- 2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
- ¾ cup unsalted butter, softened
- ¾ cup brown sugar, packed
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 large eggs
- 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 cup chopped nuts (optional)
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 12-15 minutes
Total Time: 27-30 minutes
Yield: 12-15 large cookies
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and sea salt. This blend will help create that perfect chewy texture.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar. Beat together until the mixture is creamy and well combined, forming the base of your cookies.
- To the butter mixture, add the vanilla extract and the two large eggs. Mix well until everything is smooth and beautifully blended.
- Gradually incorporate the dry flour mixture into the wet ingredients, stirring lightly until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; you want a tender cookie!
- Gently fold in the semi-sweet chocolate chips and nuts, if desired. The chocolate should glisten like little pieces of gold as they mix throughout the dough.
- Scoop generous portions of dough (about ¼ cup each) onto the prepared baking sheets, giving them space to spread—leave at least 2 inches between each scoop.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly browned and the centers still look soft. They will continue to firm up as they cool.
- Once baked, allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before carefully transferring them to wire racks to cool completely. This step helps retain their chewy texture.
Notes or Tips
For an extra special treat, consider chilling the cookie dough for about 30 minutes before baking. This enhances the flavor and helps the cookies hold their shape better. If you love a hint of sea salt, sprinkle some on top of the cookies just before baking for a delightful contrast to the sweetness.
Cooking Techniques
These cookies require basic baking techniques, but attention to detail makes all the difference! Using softened butter helps achieve that coveted creamy consistency in the dough. When measuring flour, spoon it into your measuring cup and level it for accuracy to prevent dense cookies. Folding in the chocolate and nuts gently preserves the airiness of the dough, ensuring a perfect final product.
FAQ
Can I freeze the cookie dough?
Absolutely! You can freeze the dough for up to three months. Scoop the dough onto a baking sheet, freeze until firm, then transfer to a zip-top bag. Bake directly from frozen, adding a couple of extra minutes to the baking time.
What can I substitute for eggs?
If you need an egg substitute, you can use ¼ cup of unsweetened applesauce or a flaxseed meal mixture (1 tablespoon flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water, let sit until gelatinous) per egg.
Conclusion
There you have it—your guide to making the most scrumptious Giant Chewy Chocolate Chip Cookies! These cookies are not just a dessert; they’re a warm embrace on a plate that invites you to sit back and unwind. Perfect for sharing or savoring all to yourself, this recipe is bound to become a cherished favorite in your kitchen. Happy baking!