There’s no comparison to the soothing flavor of a warm freshly baked chocolate chip cookie. With a crispy crunch around the outside, soft in the middle and chewy at its best, these traditional morsels suit people of every age. This no-fuss recipe is both ideal for skilled cooks and absolute novices with ease. Enjoy home-baked cookies in an instant with a short list of straightforward ingredients and basic steps to follow!

Why Bake Chocolate Chip Cookies at Home?

There’s something magical about baking cookies from scratch. Not only do they taste better than store-bought cookies, but you also get to choose the ingredients, so you can make a healthier and more tailored treat. And, let’s be honest, the smell of fresh cookies wafting through your kitchen is absolutely irresistible!

Ingredients for the Best Chocolate Chip Cookies

To bake approximately 24 cookies, you will require:

2 ¼ cups (280g) all-purpose flour

1 teaspoon baking soda

½ teaspoon salt

1 cup (226g) unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled

¾ cup (150g) brown sugar, packed

¾ cup (150g) granulated sugar

2 large eggs

2 teaspoons vanilla extract

2 cups (340g) semi-sweet chocolate chips

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to avoid sticking.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk flour, baking soda, and salt. This evenly distributes the leavening agents, which causes perfectly textured cookies.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugars

Whisk together in a separate large mixing bowl melted butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until smooth and well mixed. The melted butter is what will give that chewy texture people adore.

Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Beat in eggs one at a time, ensuring each is completely incorporated before proceeding to the next. Stir in vanilla extract for depth of flavor.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Add dry ingredients gradually to wet mixture, stirring just until combined. Do not overmix, as this will cause tough cookies.

Step 6: Fold in Chocolate Chips

Fold in the chocolate chips slowly, so that they are well distributed throughout the dough. If you want a combination of flavors, you can replace half of them with white chocolate, dark chocolate, or even nuts.

Step 7: Scoop and Shape

Drop rounded balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, leaving about 2 inches between each for spreading room.

Step 8: Bake to Perfection

Bake in preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until edges are golden brown and centers are still slightly soft. Cookies will further set as they cool.

Step 9: Cool and Enjoy

Let cookies cool on baking sheet for 5 minutes before moving them to a wire rack to cool fully. Serve warm with glass of milk for the ultimate indulgence!

Tips for the Best Chocolate Chip Cookies

1. Use Quality Ingredients

Use high-quality butter, real vanilla extract, and high-end chocolate chips for optimum flavor.

2. Chill the Dough (Optional)

For chewier and thicker cookies, refrigerate the dough for a minimum of 30 minutes before baking. This prevents spread and deepens the flavors.

3. Adjust Sugar for Texture

More brown sugar = Chewier, softer cookies

More granulated sugar = Crispy cookies

4. Experiment with Add-ins

Attempt to top with nuts, coconut flakes, caramel pieces, or a sprinkle of sea salt for an added twist.

5. Storage Tips

Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature up to 5 days.

Freeze the cookie dough balls for a maximum of 3 months and bake fresh as desired.

Conclusion

This easy chocolate chip cookie recipe is a must-have for any home baker. With simple ingredients and foolproof steps, you’ll create delicious cookies that everyone will love. Whether for a cozy night in, a bake sale, or a special treat, these cookies are guaranteed to impress. So, grab your ingredients, preheat your oven, and start baking your way to chocolate chip cookie perfection!

Happy baking! ????