Short introduction
Chocolate chip cookies are a classic treat that many people adore. Soft, chewy, and bursting with rich chocolate flavor, these cookies bring back memories of baking in the kitchen as a child. Perfect for any occasion, chocolate chip cookies are simple to make and always a crowd favorite!
Why you’ll love it
There are countless reasons to love chocolate chip cookies. First and foremost, they are incredibly delicious. The combination of sweet dough and decadent chocolate chips creates a perfect balance that is hard to resist. Additionally, they are easy to make and require just a few common ingredients. These cookies are versatile, allowing you to customize them with your favorite add-ins or variations. Whether enjoyed warm straight from the oven or as a snack later, chocolate chip cookies always hit the spot!
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 3/4 cup light brown sugar, packed
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 cups chocolate chips (milk, semi-sweet, or a mix)
Substitutions & key variations
If you don’t have specific ingredients, here are some great substitutions:
- Butter: You can use margarine or coconut oil in place of unsalted butter.
- Sugars: If you only have white sugar, you can use it and skip the brown sugar, but the flavor will be less rich.
- Eggs: For a vegan option, substitute each egg with 1/4 cup applesauce or a flax egg (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water).
- Flour: Whole wheat flour can be used for a healthier option, though it will alter the texture slightly.
- Chocolate: Mix and match different types of chocolate chips, or add nuts, dried fruits, or oats for variations.
Step-by-step
Step 1: Cream the butter and sugars
In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar with an electric mixer until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
Step 2: Add eggs and vanilla
Beat in the eggs one at a time, making sure to stir in the vanilla extract afterward.
Step 3: Combine dry ingredients
In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt until well mixed.
Step 4: Mix wet and dry ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
Step 5: Fold in chocolate chips
Gently fold in the chocolate chips until they are evenly distributed within the dough.
Step 6: Chill the dough
Cover the dough and refrigerate it for at least 30 minutes, or up to 24 hours. This chilling step enhances the flavor and improves the texture of the cookies.
Step 7: Preheat the oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
Step 8: Form the cookies
Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheets. Ensure there’s about 2 inches of space between each cookie to allow for spreading during baking.
Step 9: Bake the cookies
Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 9-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the centers are still slightly soft.
Step 10: Cool the cookies
Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the sheets for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Success tips
- Temperature: Ensure your butter is softened, but not melted, as this affects the texture.
- Texture: Do not overmix the dough to keep cookies from becoming tough.
- Common mistakes: Chilling the dough is essential to avoid overly flat cookies. If they’re looking too thin after baking, check your butter temperature next time!
How to serve
Chocolate chip cookies are delicious on their own, but they can be even more delightful with a glass of cold milk or a scoop of ice cream. Try making ice cream sandwiches by placing a scoop of your favorite flavor between two cookies.
Storage & reheating
Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, place them in the fridge, where they can last for about two weeks. To reheat, warm them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or pop them in a low-temperature oven for a few minutes until just warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I freeze chocolate chip cookie dough?
A: Yes! You can freeze the dough for up to 3 months. Shape the dough into balls, place them on a baking sheet, and freeze until firm. Then transfer to a freezer bag for long-term storage.
Q: Why did my cookies turn out flat?
A: Flat cookies can be caused by using melted butter or not chilling the dough long enough. Be sure to follow the instructions carefully!
Q: How can I make my cookies chewier?
A: For chewier cookies, bake them for slightly less time and try adding a bit more brown sugar in place of granulated sugar.
Nutrition notes / equivalents
Making these cookies at home allows you to control the ingredients and adjust for dietary needs. If you want to make a healthier version, consider using whole wheat flour, less sugar, or incorporating oats or nuts.
Conclusion + CTA
Chocolate chip cookies are a beloved treat that everyone can enjoy. With this easy and straightforward recipe, you can whip up a batch in no time. So, grab your ingredients, get baking, and revel in the sweet aroma of fresh cookies filling your kitchen! Don’t forget to share your baking experience with family and friends.
Links to related recipes
Chocolate Chip Cookies
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened Ensure butter is softened, not melted
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- ¾ cup light brown sugar, packed
- 2 large eggs For a vegan option, substitute each egg with 1/4 cup applesauce or a flax egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour Whole wheat flour can be used for a healthier option
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 2 cups chocolate chips You can use milk, semi-sweet, or a mix
Instructions
Preparation
- Cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar with an electric mixer until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
- Beat in the eggs one at a time, stirring in the vanilla extract afterward.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt until well mixed.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
- Gently fold in the chocolate chips until evenly distributed.
- Cover the dough and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 24 hours.
Baking
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, ensuring about 2 inches of space between each.
- Bake for 9-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the centers are still slightly soft.
- Remove from the oven and let them cool on the sheets for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.