Best Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe: Your New Go-To Cookie

Name: Best Chocolate Chip Cookies
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 27 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 1/3 cups (170g) all-purpose flour; 1/2 teaspoon baking soda; 1/2 teaspoon baking powder; 3/4 teaspoon kosher salt; 1/2 cup (112g) unsalted butter, melted; 1/2 cup (100g) packed light brown sugar; 1/3 cup (70g) granulated sugar; 1 large egg; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 1 1/2 cups (250g) semisweet chocolate chips

Nothing quite captures the essence of home baking like a fresh batch of chocolate chip cookies. The aroma wafting through your kitchen, the golden edges, and the gooey chocolate melting in every bite—it’s the epitome of comfort food, evoking memories of childhood and family gatherings. Whether enjoyed solo with a warm cup of coffee or as a sweet ending to a family dinner, these cookies will charm your taste buds and warm your heart. Let’s dive into the ultimate recipe that promises to become your go-to chocolate chip cookie.

Why Make This Recipe

There’s no shortage of chocolate chip cookie recipes out there, but this one stands out for its balance of texture and flavor.

The combination of baking soda and baking powder ensures a soft, chewy cookie with just the right amount of lift.
Using both granulated and brown sugars creates a rich caramel flavor that will leave you craving more.

Every bite of these cookies feels like a hug, and they are incredibly easy to whip up.

Easy Method for Chocolate Chip Cookies

Making chocolate chip cookies at home is not only satisfying but also a delightful experience. Here’s how you can create your own batch of mouthwatering cookies.

Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Baking Sheet

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is crucial, as an appropriately hot oven will ensure your cookies bake evenly, achieving that perfect golden brown color. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper, or grease it lightly. This prevents the cookies from sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a medium mixing bowl, combine 1 1/3 cups (170g) of all-purpose flour, 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda, 1/2 teaspoon of baking powder, and 3/4 teaspoon of kosher salt. Whisk them together gently until well combined. The flour provides the structure, while the baking soda and baking powder help the cookies rise just right.

Step 3: Prepare the Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, melt 1/2 cup (112g) of unsalted butter. It’s important to let the butter cool slightly before proceeding to the next step to make sure that it doesn’t cook the egg when mixed. Add in 1/2 cup (100g) of packed light brown sugar and 1/3 cup (70g) of granulated sugar. Use a hand mixer or a whisk to blend these ingredients until they are creamy and smooth.

Step 4: Add the Egg and Vanilla

Crack in one large egg and add 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract to your sugar and butter mixture. Vanilla extract is crucial here; it adds a warm, aromatic sensation that elevates the entire cookie. Mix until everything is well combined and smooth.

Step 5: Combine the Wet and Dry Ingredients

Now comes the fun part—fold your dry ingredients into the wet mixture. Be gentle! You don’t want to overmix, just stir until the flour is no longer visible. This will help ensure that your cookies maintain a tender texture.

Step 6: Add the Chocolate Chips

The star of the show has arrived! Fold in 1 1/2 cups (250g) of semisweet chocolate chips. Feel free to experiment with brands like Trader Joe’s or Ghirardelli for their high-quality chocolate that melts beautifully. The chocolate chips add a wonderful richness and sweetness that’s simply irresistible.

Step 7: Scoop the Dough

Using a cookie scoop or a tablespoon, drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto your prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. As they bake, they will spread out into perfect little rounds of deliciousness.

Step 8: Bake the Cookies

Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for about 10-12 minutes. Keep a close eye on them as they bake to achieve that ideal golden brown color on the edges while remaining soft in the center.

Step 9: Add Extra Chocolate Chips and Sea Salt

Halfway through the baking time, you might want to take the cookies out and sprinkle a few extra chocolate chips on top for decoration, along with a light sprinkle of flaky sea salt. This step enhances the chocolate flavor and adds a wonderful texture contrast with the sweetness.

Step 10: Cool and Serve

Once your cookies are perfectly baked, remove them from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes. Then, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. These cookies can be enjoyed warm, but trust me, they taste just as delightful once they are cooled down.

Storage Tips for Chocolate Chip Cookies

To keep your homemade chocolate chip cookies fresh and delicious, store them properly. Here are some guidelines:

Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
Refrigerator: If you prefer, you can refrigerate them for a slightly firmer texture, lasting about a week.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze them in an airtight container for up to 2 months. When you’re ready for a treat, just pop them in the microwave for a few seconds, and they’ll taste like they just came out of the oven.

Best Ways to Serve Chocolate Chip Cookies

When it comes to serving these scrumptious cookies, there are many delightful options to consider:

Classic Pairing: Enjoy them with a cold glass of milk. This timeless duo is loved by kids and adults alike.
Ice Cream Sandwich: Take it up a notch by using two cookies as the base for your favorite ice cream. Press a scoop in between two cookies for a mouth-watering treat.
Simple Elegance: Serve them warm with a light dusting of powdered sugar on top for a touch of elegance.
Coffee Companion: These cookies make for an ideal companion for a warm cup of coffee or tea, providing a sweet contrast to your favorite beverage.

Tips to Make Chocolate Chip Cookies

Here are some quick tips to elevate your cookie game:

Use Fresh Ingredients: Always make sure your baking powder and baking soda are fresh for perfect rise.
Room Temperature Ingredients: Keep your eggs and butter at room temperature for better mixing and a smoother dough.
Avoid Overmixing: Mix just until combined to ensure tender cookies.
Chill the Dough: For an even chewier texture, consider chilling the dough in the refrigerator for 30 minutes before baking.

Variations or Substitutions

If you want to get a little creative with your chocolate chip cookies, consider these delicious variations:

Nutty Delight: Add a 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans for an extra crunch and a nutty flavor that complements the chocolate perfectly.
Oatmeal Twist: Swap out 1/2 cup of flour for oats to give your cookies a hearty texture. This variation adds flavor and a delightful chewiness.
Dark Chocolate Version: Swap semisweet chocolate chips for dark chocolate chips if you prefer a richer taste in your cookies.

FAQs

Q: Can I make this ahead?

A: Absolutely! The dough can be made up to 3 days in advance and kept in the refrigerator. You can also freeze the cookie dough for up to 2 months—just scoop it into balls and freeze until firm. Once frozen, place them in a zip-top bag, and bake straight from the freezer when you’re craving a cookie.

Q: Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?

A: Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour, though your cookies will have a denser texture. You may want to reduce the amount slightly or add a tablespoon of liquid to compensate for the flour’s absorbency.

Q: How do I keep my cookies soft?

A: Using brown sugar instead of all granulated sugar helps retain moisture, as does not overbaking them. Depending on your oven, it might help to take them out when they still look slightly underbaked.

Q: Can I make them gluten-free?

A: By substituting the all-purpose flour with a 1-to-1 gluten-free baking flour mix, you can create a gluten-free version of these cookies.

Q: What if I’m out of eggs?

A: You can substitute one egg with 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce or a flax egg (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water). This will also yield chewy cookies.

As you embark on this cookie-baking journey, remember that it’s not just about the end result; it’s about the love and joy infused into each step. These chocolate chip cookies will quickly become a staple in your baking repertoire, delighting friends and family alike, and maybe even inspiring some cherished memories. So preheat that oven, gather your ingredients, and enjoy the process of creating something truly delightful. Happy baking!

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