There’s something undeniably magical about biting into a warm, chewy chocolate chip cookie fresh from the oven. Whether it’s a rainy afternoon treat or the finishing touch to a cozy family dinner, these cookies bring a sense of comfort and joy like no other. They’ve been a staple in bake sales, cookie jars, and holiday gatherings for generations, loved for their soft centers, golden edges, and those irresistible pockets of melted chocolate.
This recipe is my go-to whenever I want to recreate those childhood memories of sneaking a spoonful of dough while my grandmother patiently baked the rest. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, these cookies are delightfully easy to make and guarantee smiles all around.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Soft and Chewy Perfection: These cookies strike the perfect balance—crispy edges with a tender, gooey middle.
- Simple Ingredients: Everything you need is likely already in your pantry.
- Customizable: Add your favorite mix-ins like nuts, white chocolate chips, or even a sprinkle of sea salt for a gourmet twist.
- Quick to Bake: Ready in under 30 minutes, they’re perfect for satisfying that sweet tooth in no time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking soda
- ½ tsp salt
- ¾ cup unsalted butter, softened
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup packed brown sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 large eggs
- 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
How to Make Classic Chocolate Chip Cookies
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat Your Oven
Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
2. Prepare the Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. This step evenly distributes the leavening agents, ensuring your cookies rise beautifully. Set aside.
3. Cream Butter and Sugars
In a large mixing bowl, use a hand or stand mixer to cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy. This step is crucial for that perfect cookie texture—it should look pale and creamy.
4. Add Eggs and Vanilla
Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each one is fully incorporated before adding the next. Stir in the vanilla extract for that classic cookie flavor.
5. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Slowly add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, mixing just until combined. Avoid overmixing, as this can make the cookies tough.
6. Fold in the Chocolate Chips
Using a spatula, gently fold in the chocolate chips and nuts (if using). The dough should look irresistible at this point—try not to eat too much!
7. Scoop and Space
Use a cookie scoop or a spoon to drop dough balls onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches of space between each cookie.
8. Bake to Perfection
Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes. The edges should be golden, but the centers will remain soft. Don’t overbake—they’ll firm up as they cool.
9. Cool and Enjoy
Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This ensures they set perfectly while still retaining their chewiness.
Helpful Tips
- Chill for Thicker Cookies: If you prefer a thicker, bakery-style cookie, chill the dough in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before baking.
- Make-Ahead Dough: Cookie dough can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months. Bake straight from frozen—just add a minute or two to the bake time.
- Gourmet Touch: Sprinkle a pinch of flaky sea salt on top of each dough ball before baking for a sweet-salty twist.
Recipe Details
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10-12 minutes
- Total Time: 25-27 minutes
- Yield: About 24 cookies
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Notes
- For a nuttier flavor, toast the walnuts or pecans before mixing them into the dough.
- This recipe doubles beautifully if you’re baking for a crowd—just ensure even mixing.
Nutritional Information
Per Cookie:
- Calories: ~200
- Fat: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 26g
- Protein: 2g
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Absolutely! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend.
What’s the best way to store these cookies?
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze the baked cookies in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.
Can I substitute the chocolate chips?
Yes! Swap in white chocolate chips, dark chocolate chunks, or even butterscotch chips for a fun variation.
Storage Instructions
- Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Freezer: Place baked cookies in a freezer-safe bag or container, separating layers with parchment paper, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before enjoying.
Related Recipes
If you loved these cookies, try out these other sweet treats:
Conclusion
There you have it—your guide to baking the ultimate classic chocolate chip cookies! Perfectly chewy, packed with melty chocolate, and oh-so-satisfying, these cookies are a timeless treat for every occasion. Whether you’re sharing them with loved ones or keeping a secret stash for yourself (no judgment!), they’re guaranteed to bring a little extra sweetness to your day.
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Classic Chocolate Chip Cookies – Chewy, Gooey & Totally Irresistible!
Description
There’s something undeniably magical about biting into a warm, chewy chocolate chip cookie fresh from the oven. Whether it’s a rainy afternoon treat or the finishing touch to a cozy family dinner, these cookies bring a sense of comfort and joy like no other. They’ve been a staple in bake sales, cookie jars, and holiday gatherings for generations, loved for their soft centers, golden edges, and those irresistible pockets of melted chocolate.
This recipe is my go-to whenever I want to recreate those childhood memories of sneaking a spoonful of dough while my grandmother patiently baked the rest. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, these cookies are delightfully easy to make and guarantee smiles all around.
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking soda
- ½ tsp salt
- ¾ cup unsalted butter, softened
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup packed brown sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 large eggs
- 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
Instructions
1. Preheat Your Oven
Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
2. Prepare the Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. This step evenly distributes the leavening agents, ensuring your cookies rise beautifully. Set aside.
3. Cream Butter and Sugars
In a large mixing bowl, use a hand or stand mixer to cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy. This step is crucial for that perfect cookie texture—it should look pale and creamy.
4. Add Eggs and Vanilla
Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each one is fully incorporated before adding the next. Stir in the vanilla extract for that classic cookie flavor.
5. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Slowly add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, mixing just until combined. Avoid overmixing, as this can make the cookies tough.
6. Fold in the Chocolate Chips
Using a spatula, gently fold in the chocolate chips and nuts (if using). The dough should look irresistible at this point—try not to eat too much!
7. Scoop and Space
Use a cookie scoop or a spoon to drop dough balls onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches of space between each cookie.
8. Bake to Perfection
Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes. The edges should be golden, but the centers will remain soft. Don’t overbake—they’ll firm up as they cool.
9. Cool and Enjoy
Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This ensures they set perfectly while still retaining their chewiness.
Notes
- For a nuttier flavor, toast the walnuts or pecans before mixing them into the dough.
- This recipe doubles beautifully if you’re baking for a crowd—just ensure even mixing.
