Chocolate chip cookies are one of America’s most beloved desserts. Soft in the center, slightly crisp on the edges, and packed with melty chocolate, they’re perfect for snacks, lunchboxes, or dessert. This recipe produces cookies that are chewy, buttery, and full of chocolate flavor.
Ingredients
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 3/4 cup packed brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 large eggs
- 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
- Optional: 1 cup chopped nuts (walnuts or pecans)
Equipment Needed
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer or hand whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Baking sheets
- Parchment paper or silicone baking mat
- Cooling rack
Preparation Steps
Step 1: Preheat Oven
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Line baking sheets with parchment paper or a silicone mat.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugars
- In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to cream together softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy (about 2–3 minutes).
- Mix in the vanilla extract.
Step 4: Add Eggs
- Beat in eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next.
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
- Gradually add the flour mixture to the butter mixture, mixing on low speed or folding with a spatula until combined.
- Do not overmix.
Step 6: Add Chocolate Chips (and Nuts)
- Stir in chocolate chips and nuts (if using) evenly.
Step 7: Scoop Cookies
- Use a cookie scoop or spoon to drop dough onto the prepared baking sheets, about 2 inches apart to allow spreading.
Step 8: Bake
- Bake for 9–12 minutes, or until edges are golden brown but centers remain slightly soft.
- Rotate the baking sheet halfway through for even baking.
Step 9: Cool
- Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Tips for Perfect Chocolate Chip Cookies
- Room temperature butter: Ensures proper creaming and texture.
- Don’t overbake: Centers should be slightly soft; they firm up as they cool.
- Mix-ins: Experiment with different chocolates or add dried fruit for variation.
- Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
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