Classic Chewy Chocolate Chip Cookies
This classic recipe yields perfectly chewy chocolate chip cookies, leveraging the essential role of both white and brown sugars to achieve that coveted texture and golden-brown finish.
For 24 servings
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats.
In a large bowl, cream together the softened unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and packed light brown sugar using an electric mixer on medium speed until light, fluffy, and pale in color, about 2-3 minutes. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed.
Beat in the large eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract until just combined.
In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt until thoroughly combined.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined and no streaks of flour remain. Be careful not to overmix.
Fold in the semi-sweet chocolate chips by hand until evenly distributed throughout the dough.
Drop rounded tablespoons (or use a 1.5-ounce cookie scoop) of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
Bake for 9-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the centers are still slightly soft. The cookies will continue to set as they cool.
Remove from the oven and let cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Enjoy your freshly baked chewy chocolate chip cookies!
What to keep in mind.
4 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1**Room Temperature Ingredients**: Ensure butter and eggs are at room temperature for a smoother, more emulsified dough, leading to a better cookie texture.
- 2**Don't Overmix**: Overmixing the flour develops gluten, which can result in tough, cake-like cookies instead of chewy ones. Mix until just combined.
- 3**Chill the Dough**: For an even chewier cookie and richer flavor, chill the dough for at least 30 minutes (or up to 24 hours). This allows the flavors to meld and prevents excessive spreading.
- 4**Proper Storage**: Store cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days to maintain their chewiness.
Adapt it for your goals.
Nutty Crunch
Add 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans along with the chocolate chips for added texture and flavor.
Oatmeal Chocolate ChipOatmeal Chocolate Chip
Replace 1/2 cup of all-purpose flour with 1/2 cup of old-fashioned rolled oats for a heartier, chewier cookie.
Dark Chocolate & Sea SaltDark Chocolate & Sea Salt
Use dark chocolate chunks instead of semi-sweet chips and sprinkle with flaky sea salt before baking for a more sophisticated flavor profile.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Energy Boost
Provides quick energy from carbohydrates, useful for a pre-workout snack or a quick pick-me-up.
Mood Enhancer
The act of baking and enjoying a treat can contribute to a sense of well-being and happiness.
Antioxidants (from chocolate)
Darker chocolate, even in semi-sweet varieties, contains flavonoids which are antioxidants that can help combat free radicals.
Frequently asked questions
This can be due to butter being too soft, not enough flour, or the dough being too warm. Chilling the dough can often help prevent excessive spreading.
