Classic Gluten-Free Chocolate Chip Cookies
There’s something magical about the scent of freshly baked chocolate chip cookies wafting through the house. It stirs up nostalgia, conjuring memories of family gatherings, cozy afternoons, and happy times. If you’ve got a sweet tooth but need to adhere to a gluten-free diet, fear not! These Classic Gluten-Free Chocolate Chip Cookies are about to become your new favorite treat! With their perfect combination of gooeyness and crispness, every bite will transport you back to those cherished moments, making you wonder why you ever settled for anything less.
Why Make This Recipe
- They’re gluten-free, so you can indulge while also accommodating dietary needs.
- With a mixture of granulated and brown sugar, they offer a delightful balance of sweetness and a rich flavor.
- They’re incredibly easy to whip up, making them a perfect choice for unexpected guests or a simple family treat.
Easy Method for Classic Gluten-Free Chocolate Chip Cookies
Let’s dive into the delightful world of gluten-free baking! Making these classic cookies is straightforward, and the result will have your family and friends begging for the recipe. Here’s how to create this wonderful treat in a few simple steps.
Ingredients
Before you roll up your sleeves, let’s gather everything you need:
- 1 cup butter or dairy-free butter, room temperature (227 grams/2 sticks)
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar (150 grams)
- 3/4 cup packed brown sugar (150 grams)
- 2 eggs (room temperature)
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 2 1/2 cups gluten-free measure-for-measure flour* (300 grams)
- 3 cups chocolate chips or chocolate chunks (I like to do a mix) (525 grams)
- Flaky sea salt (optional, for finishing)
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Classic Gluten-Free Chocolate Chip Cookies
Step 1: Cream Butter & Sugars
In a large stand mixer or a large mixing bowl, take your room temperature butter and combine it with the granulated sugar and brown sugar. Beat them together for about 2 minutes until the mixture becomes light and fluffy. This is a crucial step, as the air incorporated will help the cookies rise.
Step 2: Finish The Wet Ingredients
Next, it’s time to add the eggs. Incorporate each egg one at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition to ensure it blends well. Once the eggs are fully mixed, pour in the vanilla extract and give it another stir until everything is nicely combined.
Step 3: Add Dry Ingredients
Now, let’s introduce the dry ingredients. Add the baking powder, baking soda, and kosher salt to the mixture, stirring gently to combine. After that, add about a third to half of the gluten-free flour, mixing carefully until it disappears into the batter. Repeat this process with the remaining flour, stopping when there are still a few flecks of flour visible. This will keep your cookies soft and chewy.
Step 4: Add Mix-Ins
It’s time for some chocolatey goodness! Add your chocolate chips (or chunks) to the dough and gently fold them in until the flour is fully incorporated and the chocolate is evenly distributed throughout the batter.
Step 5: Chill
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel and let the dough chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. For best results, you can chill it overnight. Chilling firms up the dough, which helps prevent the cookies from spreading too much while baking.
Step 6: Preheat & Prep
While your dough is chilling, preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Line your baking sheets with parchment paper to ensure your cookies lift off easily without sticking.
Step 7: Scoop & Roll Dough
Once the dough is chilled and ready, it’s time to scoop! Use a medium cookie scoop to portion out about 1 1/2 tablespoons of dough for each cookie. Roll the dough balls smooth between your hands and place 8-12 balls on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them a few inches apart.
Step 8: Bake Cookies
Slide the baking sheet into the oven and let the cookies bake for 8-10 minutes. You want the edges to set and turn golden while keeping the centers slightly underbaked. This is the secret to achieving that perfect chewy texture! Once they’re ready, remove them from the oven and, if desired, sprinkle some flaky sea salt over the top before letting them cool on the baking sheet for 1-2 minutes. The remaining heat from the pan will continue to cook the cookies slightly while keeping them soft in the middle.
Step 9: Transfer to Cooling Rack
Carefully transfer the cookies to a cooling rack to cool completely. Repeat the process in batches with the remaining dough until all cookies are baked.
Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for 2-3 days or freeze them for longer storage and the best results!
Storage Tips for Classic Gluten-Free Chocolate Chip Cookies
- Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for 2-3 days. They taste best when fresh, but they will last a little longer if kept airtight.
- Refrigeration: If you want to store them a bit longer, refrigerating is an option, but bear in mind that it might alter the texture slightly. They can be refrigerated for about a week.
- Freezing: For the best results, freeze the cookies in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. To enjoy, let them come to room temperature or briefly microwave them for a few seconds to regain softness.
Best Ways to Serve Classic Gluten-Free Chocolate Chip Cookies
There’s no ‘wrong’ way to enjoy these cookies, but here are some serving ideas that can elevate your treat experience:
- With a Glass of Milk: The classic pairing! Whether almond, oat, or regular cow’s milk, the combination is irresistible.
- Sundae Style: Crumble some cookies over a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a dynamic dessert that’s a play on textures and flavors.
- Coffee Companion: Enjoy a cookie along with your morning coffee or afternoon latte. The chocolate enhances the coffee’s flavors.
- Cookies and Cream: Crush cookies and mix them into whipped cream or yogurt for a delicious dessert.
- Gifts and Sharing: Pack a few cookies into a decorative box, tie a ribbon around it, and share the love with friends and family.
Tips to Make Classic Gluten-Free Chocolate Chip Cookies
- Use room temperature ingredients. This ensures proper mixing and a better texture.
- Chill the dough. Don’t skip this step; it’s crucial for the cookie’s texture.
- Experiment with chocolate. Mix in dark, semi-sweet, or milk chocolate chips for varied flavors.
- Don’t overmix. Be gentle when incorporating the dry ingredients and chocolate to keep the cookies tender.
- Adjust for altitude. If you’re baking in a high-altitude area, consider adjusting the baking time and flour amounts slightly.
Variations or Substitutions
- Nut Butters: For a delicious twist, consider adding almond butter or peanut butter to the cookie dough. Half a cup can provide that nutty flavor and also enhance the moistness.
- Dairy-Free: If you want to keep these cookies dairy-free, use a dairy-free butter and ensure your chocolate chips are dairy-free as well. This way, everyone can indulge in these delightful treats without any concerns.
FAQs
Q: Can I make this dough ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! You can prepare the dough, chill it, and then freeze it. When you’re ready to bake, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight or on the counter for a couple of hours before using.
Q: How do I know when the cookies are done baking?
A: Look for the edges to be slightly golden and the centers to look a bit underbaked—that’s perfect! They will continue to set after being removed from the oven, ensuring a chewy middle.
Q: What can I replace the chocolate chips with?
A: If you’re not a fan of chocolate, consider using dried fruits, nuts, or even white chocolate for a different flavor profile. Just ensure any substitutions maintain a similar bulk to achieve the best texture.
Baking is a fantastic way to express love and creativity, and these Classic Gluten-Free Chocolate Chip Cookies embody that spirit perfectly. Each batch promises warmth, satisfaction, and a conscientious approach to dietary needs. So gather your ingredients and indulge in the joy of baking—your next cookie adventure awaits!
Print
Classic Gluten-Free Chocolate Chip Cookies
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten-Free
Description
Indulge in these delightful Classic Gluten-Free Chocolate Chip Cookies that strike the perfect balance between gooey and crispy.
Ingredients
- 1 cup butter or dairy-free butter, room temperature (227 grams/2 sticks)
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar (150 grams)
- 3/4 cup packed brown sugar (150 grams)
- 2 eggs (room temperature)
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 2 1/2 cups gluten-free measure-for-measure flour (300 grams)
- 3 cups chocolate chips or chocolate chunks (525 grams)
- Flaky sea salt (optional, for finishing)
Instructions
- Cream butter and sugars together until light and fluffy.
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition, then stir in vanilla extract.
- Mix in baking powder, baking soda, and kosher salt, then gradually incorporate gluten-free flour.
- Fold in chocolate chips until evenly distributed throughout the batter.
- Chill dough in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
- Preheat oven to 350°F and prepare baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Scoop dough into balls and place spaced apart on the baking sheet.
- Bake for 8-10 minutes, until edges are golden and centers are slightly underbaked.
- Sprinkle with flaky sea salt if desired and let cool on baking sheet for 1-2 minutes.
- Transfer cookies to a cooling rack to cool completely.
Notes
Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for 2-3 days or freeze for longer storage.