Chocolate Chip Cookies
Classic, chewy, and soft chocolate chip cookies packed with gooey melted chocolate. This timeless American recipe is easy to make and perfect for any occasion, from bake sales to a simple after-dinner treat.
For 12 servings
Preheat oven and prepare baking sheets. Set your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line two large baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Combine dry ingredients. In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. This ensures the leavening is evenly distributed. Set aside.
Cream butter and sugars. In a large bowl, using a stand mixer with a paddle attachment or a hand mixer, beat the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar on medium-high speed for 3-4 minutes until the mixture is light, pale, and fluffy. This step incorporates air, which is key to a good cookie texture.
Add eggs and vanilla. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition until fully incorporated. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed. Beat in the vanilla extract.
Combine wet and dry mixtures. Reduce the mixer speed to low and gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients. Mix only until the flour streaks have just disappeared. Do not overmix. Using a spatula, gently fold in the chocolate chips.
Scoop and bake. Drop rounded tablespoons of dough (about 1.5 tablespoons each) onto the prepared baking sheets, placing them about 2 inches apart. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the centers are set but still soft. They will continue to bake on the hot pan after removal.
Cool the cookies. If using, sprinkle the tops with flaky sea salt immediately after removing from the oven. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes to firm up, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
What to keep in mind.
7 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For best results, use room temperature butter and eggs. This helps them combine more easily and creates a more uniform cookie texture.
- 2Do not overmix the dough once you add the flour. Mix only until the flour streaks disappear to keep the cookies tender.
- 3For thicker, chewier cookies, chill the dough for at least 30 minutes (or up to 72 hours) before baking. This prevents the cookies from spreading too much.
- 4Use a cookie scoop for uniformly sized cookies, which ensures they all bake evenly.
- 5For a gourmet touch, sprinkle a little flaky sea salt over the tops of the cookies immediately after they come out of the oven.
- 6For a richer, more complex flavor, use a mix of dark and milk chocolate chips or chunks.
- 7Browning the butter before adding it can give the cookies a nutty, toffee-like flavor. Allow it to cool slightly before creaming with the sugars.
Adapt it for your goals.
Flavor
Add 1 cup of chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans along with the chocolate chips for extra crunch and flavor.
FlavorFlavor
Substitute half of the semisweet chocolate chips with white chocolate chips, butterscotch chips, or peanut butter chips.
DietaryDietary
For a gluten-free version, use a 1:1 gluten-free all-purpose flour blend that contains xanthan gum.
FlavorFlavor
Add 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon or a pinch of nutmeg to the dry ingredients for a warm, spiced flavor.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Mood Booster
The combination of sugar and chocolate can provide a temporary boost in mood and energy, making it a comforting treat that can trigger feelings of happiness and nostalgia.
Source of Antioxidants
If using dark chocolate chips with a high cocoa content (70% or more), they can be a source of flavonoids. These are antioxidants that may help protect cells from damage and support heart health.
Frequently asked questions
This is often caused by butter that is too soft or melted. Using chilled dough can help prevent spreading. Also, ensure your baking soda is fresh and you've measured your flour correctly (scoop and level, don't pack).
