Perfect Chocolate Chip Cookies

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There’s nothing quite like a batch of freshly baked chocolate chip cookies. With crispy edges, a chewy center, and the perfect balance of sweetness and chocolate, these cookies are a true classic. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just want a comforting treat, this recipe delivers consistently delicious results.

this Recipe

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• All-purpose flour
• Baking soda
• Salt
• Unsalted butter
• Brown sugar
• Granulated sugar
• Vanilla extract
• Eggs
• Semi-sweet chocolate chips

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Mix the dry ingredients: In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
3. Cream the butter and sugars: In a separate bowl, beat the butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Add eggs and vanilla: Mix in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.
5. Combine wet and dry ingredients: Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined.
6. Fold in chocolate chips: Gently mix in the chocolate chips.
7. Scoop and bake: Drop spoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
8. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown.
9. Cool and enjoy: Let the cookies rest on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: Makes about 24 cookies
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10-12 minutes
• Total Time: 25-30 minutes

Variations

• Nutty Twist: Add chopped walnuts or pecans for extra crunch.
• Double Chocolate: Mix in cocoa powder for a chocolate-flavored dough.
• Chewy vs. Crispy: Use more brown sugar for a chewier texture or more granulated sugar for a crispier bite.
• Sea Salt Finish: Sprinkle a pinch of sea salt on top before baking for a gourmet touch.
• White Chocolate and Macadamia: Swap out semi-sweet chocolate chips for white chocolate and add macadamia nuts.

Storage/Reheating

• Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Freezing: Freeze the dough in scooped portions for up to 3 months. Bake from frozen, adding 2 extra minutes to the baking time.
• Reheating: Warm cookies in the microwave for 10-15 seconds to restore their freshly baked texture.

FAQs

How do I keep my cookies from spreading too much?

Chilling the dough for at least 30 minutes before baking helps prevent excessive spreading.

Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?

Yes, but reduce the added salt in the recipe by half.

Why did my cookies turn out too hard?

Overbaking can make cookies too hard. Remove them from the oven when the edges are golden but the centers still look slightly soft.

Can I substitute baking powder for baking soda?

Baking powder isn’t a direct substitute for baking soda, but you can try using 3 times the amount of baking powder. The texture may be slightly different.

What kind of chocolate chips work best?

Semi-sweet chocolate chips are the classic choice, but you can also use dark, milk, or even white chocolate chips.

Can I make these cookies gluten-free?

Yes, use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for similar results.

How do I make my cookies extra chewy?

Using more brown sugar than granulated sugar and slightly underbaking them will result in a chewier texture.

Can I add oats to this recipe?

Yes! Adding 1/2 cup of oats can give the cookies a heartier texture.

Why do my cookies have a cake-like texture?

Too much flour or overmixing the dough can cause a cake-like texture.

Can I make these cookies without eggs?

Yes! Use an egg substitute like mashed banana, applesauce, or a flaxseed mixture.

Conclusion

These perfect chocolate chip cookies are a timeless treat that everyone will love. Whether you enjoy them fresh from the oven or save a batch for later, they always bring comfort and joy. Try different variations to suit your taste, and don’t forget to share with family and friends!

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