Baking the perfect chocolate chip cookie is an art that combines the right ingredients and techniques. This recipe will help you create cookies that are soft, chewy, and bursting with rich chocolate flavor. Ideal for sharing or enjoying with a glass of milk, these cookies will quickly become a favorite in your home. Get ready to impress your family and friends with these delightful treats!
Ingredients
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 cup unsalted butter, room temperature
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup packed brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 large eggs
- 2 cups semisweet chocolate chips
- 1 cup chopped nuts (optional)
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe makes approximately 24 cookies. Preparation time is about 15 minutes, and cooking time is around 10-12 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each cookie (about 1 cookie) contains approximately 150 calories, 7g fat, 20g carbohydrates, and 2g protein. This is based on one serving.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a small bowl, whisk together flour and baking soda; set aside.
- In a large bowl, cream together the butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and salt until smooth.
- Add vanilla extract and eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- Gradually blend in the flour mixture until just combined.
- Stir in chocolate chips and nuts (if using).
- Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto ungreased cookie sheets.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until edges are golden brown.
- Remove from oven and allow cookies to cool on the sheets for 5 minutes before transferring them to wire racks.
- Enjoy your freshly baked cookies!
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version. Also, use dairy-free chocolate chips for a vegan alternative. Applesauce can replace butter for a lower-fat option.
Serving and Pairings
These cookies are perfect on their own or served with a glass of cold milk. They also pair well with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert.
Storage and Reheating
Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. They can also be frozen for up to three months. To reheat, simply microwave for a few seconds or warm in the oven.
Cooking Mistakes
- Using cold butter instead of room temperature can result in dense cookies.
- Overmixing the dough can lead to tough cookies.
- Not measuring ingredients accurately can change the texture.
- Baking at the wrong temperature can affect the cookie’s rise.
- Skipping the cooling step can cause cookies to break apart.
Helpful Tips
- Chill the dough for 30 minutes for thicker cookies.
- Use parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- Experiment with different types of chocolate chips.
- Add a pinch of espresso powder to enhance chocolate flavor.
FAQs
Can I use brown sugar only in the recipe?
Yes, you can use only brown sugar, but it may result in a denser cookie with a richer flavor.
Why are my cookies flat?
Flat cookies can be caused by using melted butter or not enough flour. Ensure butter is at room temperature and measure flour correctly.
How can I make my cookies chewy?
To achieve a chewy texture, slightly underbake the cookies and use more brown sugar than granulated sugar.
Can I add other mix-ins?
Absolutely! Feel free to add nuts, dried fruits, or even different types of chocolate for variety.
What should I do if I don’t have vanilla extract?
If you don’t have vanilla extract, you can omit it or use almond extract as a substitute for a unique flavor.
Conclusion
This best chocolate chip cookie recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. With its simple ingredients and easy steps, you can bake these delightful cookies any time. Share them with friends or enjoy them all by yourself—either way, they’re bound to bring joy!
Best Chocolate Chip Cookie
Ingredients
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 cup unsalted butter room temperature
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup packed brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 large eggs
- 2 cups semisweet chocolate chips
- 1 cup chopped nuts optional
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a small bowl, whisk together flour and baking soda; set aside.
- In a large bowl, cream together the butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and salt until smooth.
- Add vanilla extract and eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- Gradually blend in the flour mixture until just combined.
- Stir in chocolate chips and nuts (if using).
- Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto ungreased cookie sheets.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until edges are golden brown.
- Remove from oven and allow cookies to cool on the sheets for 5 minutes before transferring them to wire racks.
- Enjoy your freshly baked cookies!
