Introduction
There’s nothing quite like the aroma of freshly baked cookies wafting through your home, and when those cookies are chocolate chip, the experience is simply heavenly. This recipe is for the world’s greatest chocolate chip cookies, a cherished delight that’s perfect for sharing (or not!). With a buttery, golden-brown exterior and a soft, chewy center filled with rich chocolatey goodness, these cookies will surely melt your heart. Gather your ingredients, and let’s make some magic in the kitchen!
Ingredients
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 cup unsalted butter, room temperature
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup packed brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
- 2 large eggs
- 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10-12 minutes
Total Time: 25-27 minutes
Yield: Approximately 24 cookies
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy removal and cleanup.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and baking soda; set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the room temperature butter until creamy. Gradually add the granulated sugar and packed brown sugar, mixing until light and fluffy.
- Add the salt, vanilla extract, and eggs to the butter mixture. Mix until well combined.
- Slowly incorporate the flour mixture into the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined. Be cautious not to overmix!
- Fold in the semi-sweet chocolate chips, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the dough.
- Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, drop generous portions of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the centers look slightly underbaked. They will continue to set as they cool!
- Remove from the oven and let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes or Tips
For the best flavor, chill the cookie dough for at least an hour before baking. This helps to enhance the depth of flavor and allows for a thicker, chewier cookie. Consider adding nuts like walnuts or pecans for an extra crunch, or try using milk chocolate chips for a sweeter treat!
Cooking Techniques
When measuring flour, use a spoon to scoop it into your measuring cup and level it off with a knife rather than scooping directly from the bag, which can pack it down and lead to dense cookies. Additionally, using room temperature butter helps to create a beautifully fluffy dough. Always remember to keep an eye on your cookies as they bake; ovens can vary, and you don’t want these delicious morsels to overbake!
FAQ
Can I freeze the cookie dough?
Absolutely! You can scoop the dough onto a baking sheet and freeze them until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a resealable bag and store in the freezer for up to three months. Bake from frozen, just adding a minute or two to the baking time.
What if I don’t have unsalted butter?
You can use salted butter in a pinch. Just reduce the amount of added salt in the recipe to balance the flavors.
Conclusion
These chocolate chip cookies are more than just a dessert; they’re a warm hug in a chewy form, perfect for any occasion or simply to enjoy with a glass of milk. As you take a bite, let the rich, buttery dough and melty chocolate chips transport you back to simpler, sweeter moments. Happy baking!