Basic Recipe Chocolate Chip Cookies
There’s something undeniably special about the aroma of fresh-baked chocolate chip cookies wafting through the house. These delightful treats are a beloved classic — perfect for sharing with friends or indulging in all by yourself. The balance of sweet, buttery dough and rich chocolate chips creates an irresistible combination that speaks to our nostalgia and childhood memories. If you’re on the hunt for a cookie recipe that perfectly balances crispy edges and a chewy center, you’ve just found it.
Why Make This Recipe
- These cookies are a timeless favorite, perfect for any occasion.
- They are quick and easy to prepare, making them a perfect choice for both novice bakers and seasoned pros.
The best part? Once you master this basic chocolate chip cookie recipe, the possibilities are endless. This will be the go-to recipe for countless baking adventures ahead.
Simple Way to Prepare Chocolate Chip Cookies
Baking chocolate chip cookies at home is not just about creating a snack; it’s about the experience of mixing, measuring, and waiting in eager anticipation for them to come out of the oven. Here’s how to make your own batch of delectable cookies that will knock everyone’s socks off.
Ingredients
To create this delightful recipe, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 100 grams of unsalted butter
- 150 grams of light brown sugar
- 1 egg (medium)
- 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
- 200 grams of all-purpose flour
- A pinch of salt
- 1 teaspoon of baking soda
- 100 grams of chocolate chips
- Extra chocolate chips for decoration
Gather all your ingredients in one spot to streamline your preparation process. This will ease the baking journey and make for a more enjoyable experience!
Directions
- Start by placing the unsalted butter and brown sugar in a mixing bowl. Use an electric mixer to blend until the mixture is creamy and smooth.
- Next, crack the medium-sized egg into the bowl and add the vanilla extract. Mix until you achieve a smooth, homogenous mixture.
- Gradually add in the all-purpose flour, salt, and baking soda. Once the flour starts to incorporate, turn off the mixer — you don’t want to overmix.
- Using your hands, fold in the chocolate chips, allowing them to evenly spread through the dough.
- Patience is key. Allow the cookie dough to rest in the refrigerator for at least one hour, though letting it sit overnight will yield even better flavors.
- Preheat your oven to 170 °C (340 °F) with both top and bottom heating elements.
- Divide the chilled dough into 16 equal pieces. Roll them into balls and arrange them with ample spacing on a baking sheet. If you have extra chocolate chips, feel free to press them onto each ball.
- Bake in your preheated oven for 12 to 14 minutes until they turn a lovely golden brown. Remember, the cookies will appear soft straight from the oven, so let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack.
Storing Leftover Chocolate Chip Cookies
Even though chocolate chip cookies rarely last long in a household, you’ll want to store any leftovers properly to maintain their fresh, delightful flavor. Here are some storage recommendations:
- Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days.
- Refrigerating: For a longer lifespan, refrigerate for up to a week at 40°F.
- Freezing: You can freeze your cookie balls (before baking) for up to 2 months. Just remember to thaw the dough in the fridge before baking.
These tips will help you enjoy your treats while keeping them fresh.
Best Ways to Serve Chocolate Chip Cookies
There’s no wrong way to enjoy chocolate chip cookies, but here are some wonderful serving suggestions that elevate your experience:
- With a Glass of Milk: The classic pairing never goes out of style. Dipping a warm cookie into a chilled glass of milk is pure bliss.
- Ala Mode: Serve warm cookies topped with a scoop of vanilla or chocolate ice cream for a delicious dessert.
- With Fresh-Brewed Coffee or Tea: The richness of chocolate chip cookies complements the bold flavors of freshly brewed coffee or herbal teas beautifully.
- Cookie Sandwiches: For a fun twist, try making cookie sandwiches with a layer of frosting, peanut butter, or even Nutella in the middle.
Any of these pairing ideas will surely take your cookie experience to the next level!
Tips to Make Chocolate Chip Cookies
Here are a few quick tips to ensure your cookies turn out perfectly every time:
- Chill Your Dough: This not only helps with flavor but also keeps your cookies from spreading too much during baking.
- Use Quality Chocolate: The chocolate chips you choose can make a huge difference. Go for quality chocolate for a richer taste.
- Measure Ingredients Accurately: Proper measurement of ingredients, especially flour, is crucial to get the right texture.
- Check for Doneness: Your cookies should be lightly golden around the edges and still soft in the center when you remove them from the oven.
One signature tip that can elevate your cookies is to add a sprinkling of sea salt atop them right before baking. This little twist enhances the flavor remarkably!
Variations and Substitutions
Feel free to get creative with your cookie baking! Here are a few ideas to customize your chocolate chip cookies:
- Nutty Delight: If you prefer a nutty crunch, consider adding chopped walnuts or pecans to the dough.
- Dried Fruit: For a fruity twist, mix in dried cranberries or raisins for a chewy texture that contrasts well with the chocolate.
- Flavored Extracts: Vanilla is a classic, but consider citrus extracts like orange or lemon for an unexpected zest.
Each variation can create a delightful new take on the classic cookie.
FAQs
Q: Can I prepare the dough in advance?
A: Absolutely! You can prepare the dough up to 2 days in advance and refrigerate it. Just make sure to keep it covered tightly.
What adjustments can I make for gluten-free cookies?
Opt for a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour. Ensure other ingredients are gluten-free, especially chocolate chips.
Can I double this recipe?
Yes, you can easily double the recipe to make a larger batch. Just ensure you have enough mixing capacity.
Q: Can I use brown sugar instead of white sugar?
A: Yes! Using only brown sugar will give your cookies a chewier texture and richer flavor.
Chocolate chip cookies are more than just a treat; they are a warm hug, a lively gathering, and a joyful moment. By following this basic recipe, you not only create a delicious snack but also embrace the process of baking that brings happiness into the kitchen. Whether you’re baking for yourself, sharing with loved ones, or celebrating a special occasion, this classic cookie recipe will not disappoint. So gather your ingredients and start mixing! The perfect chewy chocolate chip cookies await you. Happy baking!
Print
Basic Chocolate Chip Cookies
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 14 minutes
- Total Time: 29 minutes
- Yield: 16 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delicious and classic chocolate chip cookies with a perfect balance of crispy edges and chewy centers.
Ingredients
- 100 grams unsalted butter
- 150 grams light brown sugar
- 1 medium egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 200 grams all-purpose flour
- A pinch of salt
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 100 grams chocolate chips
- Extra chocolate chips for decoration
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, blend the unsalted butter and brown sugar until creamy.
- Add the egg and vanilla extract, mixing until smooth.
- Gradually add flour, salt, and baking soda and mix until just combined.
- Fold in chocolate chips by hand, evenly distributing them through the dough.
- Refrigerate the dough for at least 1 hour, preferably overnight.
- Preheat the oven to 170 °C (340 °F).
- Divide the chilled dough into 16 pieces, rolling them into balls and placing them on a baking sheet.
- Bake for 12 to 14 minutes until golden brown, then let cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a cooling rack.
Notes
Store cookies at room temperature in an airtight container for 3-4 days or refrigerate for up to a week.