Best Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe: Your New Go-To Cookie
A warm batch of chocolate chip cookies fresh out of the oven evokes a sense of comfort and nostalgia that many of us cherish. This recipe promises to be your new favorite, offering a delightful balance of crunch and chew, with rich, melting chocolate chips embedded in a buttery dough. Whether you are baking to lift spirits, celebrate a moment, or just satisfy that sweet craving, these cookies will not disappoint.
Why Make This Recipe
- Each bite of these cookies delivers a comforting texture that makes them irresistible.
- The combination of semi-sweet chocolate and a sprinkle of sea salt elevates the flavor to new heights.
- Preparing these cookies is a simple and enjoyable experience that brings joy to the kitchen.
Easy Method for Best Chocolate Chip Cookies
Baking chocolate chip cookies should be a straightforward experience, filled with joy and anticipation. Follow these simple steps to create the perfect batch of cookies that will have you reaching for seconds (and thirds). Gather your ingredients and let’s get started!
1. Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Baking Sheet
Before diving into your cookie creation, preheating the oven to 350°F (175°C) ensures that your cookies bake evenly. While the oven warms up, line your baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. This not only prevents the cookies from sticking but also facilitates easier cleanup.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a medium 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. The combination of baking soda and powder ensures your cookies rise beautifully without being too cake-like. Whisk these dry ingredients together until they are fully integrated, making sure there are no lumps.
3. Prepare the Wet Ingredients
In a separate, larger bowl, melt 1/2 cup (112g) of unsalted butter. Let it cool slightly before mixing in 1/2 cup (100g) of packed light brown sugar and 1/3 cup (70g) of granulated sugar. The melted butter not only aids in mixing easily but also gives the cookies that rich, buttery flavor that we all know and love. Blend these ingredients together until smooth and creamy.
4. Add the Egg and Vanilla
Once combined, crack in 1 large egg and mix in 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract. The egg acts as a binder, adding depth and richness to the cookies. Make sure to whisk until the mixture is homogenized and velvety.
5. Combine the Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add your dry mixture into the wet ingredients. Use a spatula or wooden spoon to fold in the flour mixture until just combined. Be cautious to avoid overmixing, as this can lead to tough cookies instead of the tender texture we aim for.
6. Add the Chocolate Chips
Now for the best part—add 1 1/2 cups (250g) of semisweet chocolate chips into the dough. Stir gently until they are evenly incorporated throughout the batter. The chocolate chips are the stars of your cookies, melting into gooey bites of heaven.
7. Scoop the Dough
Using a cookie scoop or two spoons, portion out the dough onto your prepared baking sheet. Leave enough space between each mound, as the cookies will spread a little during baking. A good rule of thumb is to space them about 2 inches apart.
8. Bake the Cookies
Transfer the baking sheet into the preheated oven and bake for 9-11 minutes, or until the cookies are lightly golden around the edges but still soft in the center. This slight underbaking is crucial for achieving that desired chewy texture!
9. Add Extra Chocolate Chips and Sea Salt
Immediately after taking the cookies out of the oven, sprinkle a few more chocolate chips on top and a light dusting of flaky sea salt. This finishing touch enhances the flavor and visual appeal, offering a sophisticated twist to your classic cookie.
10. Cool and Serve
Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes. Then, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy them warm with a glass of milk, or store them for later!
Storing Leftover Best Chocolate Chip Cookies
To keep your cookies delicious for longer, follow these guidelines:
- Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days at room temperature.
- Refrigerator: They can last up to a week if stored in the fridge.
- Freezer: For long-term storage, freeze cookies in an airtight bag or container for up to 2 months. When ready to indulge, either let them thaw at room temperature or pop them in the microwave for a few seconds for that freshly baked feel.
Best Ways to Serve Best Chocolate Chip Cookies
Chocolate chip cookies are versatile and pair well with various accompaniments. Here are a few ideas to elevate your cookie experience:
- Classic Pairing: Enjoy with a tall glass of cold milk, either regular or chocolate-flavored.
- Ala Mode: Place a scoop of vanilla ice cream between two cookies for a delightful ice cream sandwich. Try adding a drizzle of hot fudge for indulgent sweetness.
- Coffee Companion: Pair them with a hot cup of coffee or tea for an afternoon treat or dessert option.
- Gifting: Wrap a dozen cookies beautifully in a box as a thoughtful gift for friends or family. Everyone loves receiving homemade cookies!
Tips to Make Best Chocolate Chip Cookies
- Don’t skip the salt: A little salt not only balances the sweetness but enhances the overall chocolate flavor.
- Butter temperature matters: Make sure the butter is melted and cool to prevent cooking the egg when combined.
- Cookie size: Adjust the size of your cookie portions based on preference. Larger cookies might need a minute or so more in the oven.
- Experiment with chocolate: Try using a mix of dark chocolate and milk chocolate chips for added complexity.
- Chill the dough: For thicker cookies, chill your dough in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before baking.
Variations or Substitutions
If you’re looking to switch things up, consider these variations:
- Nutty Twist: Stir in 1 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch and flavor.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cinnamon or espresso powder to the dry mix for a unique flavor enhancement. This gives the cookies an exciting kick and a depth that surprises the palate.
FAQs
Q: Can I make these cookies in advance?
A: Absolutely! You can prepare the dough in advance and refrigerate it for up to 72 hours. Simply scoop and bake them when you’re ready.
Q: How can I make the cookies chewier?
A: To achieve chewier cookies, consider using bread flour in place of all-purpose flour, or try adding an extra egg yolk to your dough.
Q: Can I freeze the dough?
- Yes, you can freeze cookie dough! Shape it into balls, then place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually. Once solid, transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months.
Baking cookies is not only a method of delivering delicious treats but also an act of love. Each bite represents warmth, joy, and fond memories, whether you are enjoying them yourself or sharing with others. With this Best Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe, you’re not just making cookies; you’re creating an experience to savor and celebrate. So, preheat your oven and prepare to create some sweet memories that will linger well beyond the last crumb. Happy baking!
Print
Best Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 11 minutes
- Total Time: 26 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A delightful balance of crunch and chew, these chocolate chip cookies promise to be your new favorite treat, filled with rich, melting chocolate chips in a buttery dough.
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
- Flaky sea salt for finishing
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, baking powder, and kosher salt.
- Melt the unsalted butter and let it cool. In a larger bowl, mix together melted butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until smooth.
- Add the egg and vanilla extract, whisking until fully combined.
- Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined.
- Stir in the semisweet chocolate chips evenly into the dough.
- Scoop the dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- Bake for 9-11 minutes until lightly golden but still soft in the center.
- Immediately sprinkle with extra chocolate chips and flaky sea salt after removing from the oven.
- Cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
Store cookies in an airtight container for up to 3 days at room temperature, up to a week in the fridge, or freeze for up to 2 months.