Chocolate Chip Cookie Recipe
Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts
Enjoy the classic taste of homemade chocolate chip cookies with this easy recipe. Perfectly chewy and packed with chocolate chips, these cookies are a timeless treat.
There's nothing quite like the smell of freshly baked chocolate chip cookies wafting through your home. This recipe combines simple ingredients to create a cookie that's crispy on the outside and chewy on the inside, making it a favorite for both kids and adults. Whether you're baking for a special occasion or just because, these cookies are sure to delight!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Rich chocolate flavor paired with fresh orange zest
- Creamy texture that melts in your mouth
- Perfect for celebrations or as a sweet indulgence
A Timeless Treat
Chocolate chip cookies are a beloved classic that have stood the test of time. Their irresistible combination of buttery dough and gooey chocolate chips makes them a favorite among both young and old. Whether you're baking for a special occasion or simply indulging in a sweet craving, these cookies never disappoint. The warm, comforting aroma that fills your kitchen while they bake is just the icing on the cake, making the experience even more delightful.
This recipe offers a straightforward approach to creating these delicious cookies at home. With easy-to-follow steps and common ingredients, you’ll be enjoying fresh, homemade cookies in no time. Perfect for gatherings, lunchboxes, or a late-night snack, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your baking repertoire.
Customization Options
One of the best things about chocolate chip cookies is their versatility. While this recipe focuses on the classic chocolate chip flavor, you can easily customize it to suit your taste. Consider adding nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, for an extra crunch. For a fun twist, try incorporating peanut butter chips or white chocolate chips alongside the traditional semi-sweet chocolate chips for a unique flavor profile.
Another popular variation is to add a hint of spice or flavor. A sprinkle of cinnamon or a dash of espresso powder can elevate the cookie experience, adding depth and complexity to the simple chocolate chip flavor. Feel free to experiment and make these cookies your own!
Storage and Shelf Life
Proper storage is key to keeping your chocolate chip cookies fresh and delicious. Once cooled, store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They can last for about a week, but we doubt they’ll last that long once your family gets a whiff of them! If you want to keep them for an extended period, consider freezing them. Place the cookies in a freezer-safe bag, and they can last up to three months.
When you’re ready to enjoy frozen cookies, simply let them thaw at room temperature or pop them in the microwave for a few seconds for that freshly baked taste. This way, you can always have a stash of these delightful treats on hand for unexpected guests or a late-night snack.
Ingredients
Gather the following ingredients to make your chocolate chip cookies:
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 3/4 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 large eggs
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 cups chocolate chips
Once you have all your ingredients, you're ready to start baking!
Instructions
Follow these steps to bake your delicious chocolate chip cookies:
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth. Beat in the eggs one at a time.
Combine Dry Ingredients
In another bowl, combine the flour, baking soda, and salt.
Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until fully combined.
Add Chocolate Chips
Fold in the chocolate chips until evenly distributed.
Bake the Cookies
Drop spoonfuls of dough onto ungreased baking sheets. Bake for 9 to 11 minutes, or until edges are golden brown.
Cool and Enjoy
Remove from the oven and let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to wire racks to cool completely.
Once cooled, enjoy your homemade cookies with a glass of milk!
Baking Tips for Success
To ensure your cookies turn out perfectly every time, here are a few baking tips to keep in mind. First, make sure your butter is at the right temperature. Softened but not melted butter helps create the ideal texture. It's best to take the butter out of the fridge about 30 minutes before you start baking.
Another important tip is to measure your flour correctly. Too much flour can lead to dry cookies, while too little can make them too wet. Use the spoon-and-level method: spoon the flour into your measuring cup and level it off with a knife for the most accurate measurement.
Serving Suggestions
These chocolate chip cookies are delicious on their own, but you can elevate your serving experience with a few simple ideas. Serve them warm with a glass of cold milk for a classic pairing that never goes out of style. For an indulgent treat, consider making cookie ice cream sandwiches by placing a scoop of your favorite ice cream between two cookies.
If you're feeling adventurous, try drizzling melted chocolate or caramel over the cookies before serving. This adds an extra layer of sweetness and visual appeal. These suggestions will surely impress your guests and take your chocolate chip cookies to the next level!
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use margarine instead of butter?
Yes, you can substitute margarine for butter, but it may affect the flavor and texture slightly.
→ How do I store leftover cookies?
Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
→ Can I freeze the cookie dough?
Yes, you can freeze the cookie dough for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before baking.
→ What can I use instead of chocolate chips?
You can use chunks of chocolate, nuts, or dried fruits as substitutes.
Chocolate Chip Cookie Recipe
Enjoy the classic taste of homemade chocolate chip cookies with this easy recipe. Perfectly chewy and packed with chocolate chips, these cookies are a timeless treat.
Created by: Hannah Lewis
Recipe Type: Baking & Desserts
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 24 cookies
What You'll Need
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 3/4 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 large eggs
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 cups chocolate chips
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth. Beat in the eggs one at a time.
In another bowl, combine the flour, baking soda, and salt.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until fully combined.
Fold in the chocolate chips until evenly distributed.
Drop spoonfuls of dough onto ungreased baking sheets. Bake for 9 to 11 minutes, or until edges are golden brown.
Remove from the oven and let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to wire racks to cool completely.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 160 kcal
- Total Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
- Sodium: 80mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 22g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 12g
- Protein: 2g