Best Ever Chocolate Chip Cookies

There’s something undeniably special about the warm, gooey scent of freshly baked chocolate chip cookies wafting through your home. I still remember the first time I made these cookies—I was about twelve, standing on a stool to reach the mixing bowl, eager to impress my friends. Those cookies turned out a little flat and more than a tad crispy, but they sparked my passion for baking. Over the years, I’ve refined the process into what I can confidently call the best-ever chocolate chip cookies. Trust me; you’ll want to make these tonight.

What makes this recipe special

Let’s talk about why these cookies have earned the title “Best Ever.” They’re not just any cookies; they’re soft and chewy with that classic crispy edge, thanks to the perfect balance of butter and sugar. The secret is in the science—using both granulated and brown sugar gives them a delightful flavor, while the butter adds richness that’s just divine. And those chocolate chips? Oh, we use two full cups because, let’s be real, we’re here for the chocolate!

You’ll find that these cookies are crowd-pleasers, whether you’re baking for a cozy night in or bringing treats to a gathering. They deliver that nostalgic charm of childhood baking, tailored to make anyone feel warm and fuzzy inside. Plus, they’re simple enough for novice bakers but satisfying for seasoned kitchen whizzes. Grab your aprons; you’re about to create some magic!

Gather these ingredients

Alright, before we dive into the oven, let’s gather our ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

• All-Purpose Flour (2 1/4 cups): This is the backbone of your cookies. For a gluten-free twist, you can use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.

• Baking Soda (1/2 teaspoon): This will lift your cookies and give them that perfect texture. No baking soda? Baking powder can work in a pinch, but the texture will differ slightly.

• Unsalted Butter (1 cup, room temperature): Room temperature butter is the real MVP here. It creams beautifully, creating that luscious texture.

• Granulated Sugar (3/4 cup): This adds sweetness and crunch. If you’re watching your sugar, coconut sugar can be a delightful alternative.

• Brown Sugar (3/4 cup, packed): Brown sugar enhances that chewy texture and gives a caramel note to the cookies. If you’re out, white sugar can substitute, but you’ll lose some flavor depth.

• Salt (1 teaspoon): Don’t skip the salt! It balances the sweetness and intensifies the flavor.

• Vanilla Extract (2 teaspoons): Vanilla is the fairy dust of baking—it brings everything together. Opt for pure vanilla for the best flavor if possible.

• Large Eggs (2): They provide moisture and binding. If you need an egg substitute, try using applesauce or a flaxseed mix for a vegan twist.

• Chocolate Chips (2 cups): Use semi-sweet, dark, or even milk chocolate for a sweeter touch. Feel like going crazy? Throw in some nuts or dried fruit for added texture.

Preparing Best Ever Chocolate Chip Cookies

Time to roll up your sleeves and get started! Here’s how to whip up these beauties:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is the perfect temperature to ensure that the cookies bake evenly.

2. In a small bowl, whisk together the flour and baking soda. This helps distribute the baking soda evenly throughout the flour, ensuring your cookies rise beautifully.

3. In a large bowl, cream the butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and salt until smooth. Use a hand mixer or stand mixer on medium speed for about 3 minutes. This step is key—creaming incorporates air into the butter, leading to light, fluffy cookies.

4. Beat in the vanilla and eggs thoroughly. Make sure these are well combined to create a homogenous batter.

5. Gradually add the dry ingredients. Mix just until combined—overmixing can lead to dense cookies, and we want them soft and chewy.

6. Gently fold in the chocolate chips. Get ready for the chocolate goodness!

7. Drop large spoonfuls onto ungreased baking sheets. You can use a cookie scoop for even portions. Remember, they spread, so leave some room!

8. Bake for 9 to 11 minutes or until golden brown. The cookies will look soft but will firm up as they cool.

9. Let cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes. Then transfer to wire racks to cool completely. Patience, my friend; the cooling is worth it!

Best way to enjoy it

Now that you have a batch of these heavenly cookies, here’s how to enjoy them. Servings are key! Pair one with a cold glass of milk (or plant milk, if you prefer) for that classic combo. Want to elevate the experience? Try warming them up for a few seconds in the microwave to unleash that melty chocolate goodness. Feeling indulgent? A scoop of vanilla ice cream on top will make your taste buds dance.

These cookies are also fantastic crumbled over yogurt or ice cream for a delightful dessert. I often set up a cookie bar with various toppings like nuts, sea salt, and even caramel drizzle for gatherings. It’s interactive and a hit!

Storage and reheating tips

So, how do we keep those cookies fresh? Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you’re like me and tend to bake large batches, consider freezing cookie dough. Simply scoop the unbaked dough onto a baking sheet, freeze until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. When the cookie monster strikes, you can bake a few fresh cookies right from the freezer—just add an extra minute or two to the baking time.

Pro chef tips

Want to take your cookies to a whole new level? Here are some insider tips:

• Chill the dough for 30 minutes before baking. This helps prevent spreading and enhances flavor. It’s a game-changer!

• Experiment with different types of chocolate. Try using dark chocolate chunks, white chocolate, or even swirls of peanut butter or Nutella.

• Don’t skimp on the salt! A sprinkle of flaky sea salt on top right before baking can elevate the flavors to new heights.

Creative Twists

Feel like experimenting? You can easily tweak this recipe! Consider swirling in peanut butter or adding crushed pretzels for that sweet and salty hit. For a holiday twist, throw in some cinnamon or switch out the chocolate for butterscotch chips. The possibilities are endless!

Ingredients list

• 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 cup unsalted butter, room temperature
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 3/4 cup packed brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 2 large eggs
• 2 cups chocolate chips

Directions to follow

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Whisk together flour and baking soda; set aside.
3. Cream butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and salt until smooth.
4. Beat in vanilla and eggs until thoroughly combined.
5. Gradually add dry ingredients; mix just until combined.
6. Stir in chocolate chips.
7. Drop by large spoonfuls onto ungreased baking sheets.
8. Bake for 9 to 11 minutes, or until golden brown.
9. Let cool on sheets for a few minutes before transferring to wire racks.

Your questions answered

• Can I use whole wheat flour instead? Yes, but consider a mix with all-purpose for a better texture.
• Do these cookies need to be refrigerated? No need; store them in a cool, dry place.
• How do I know when they’re done? Look for golden edges! They may look soft in the center but will firm up as they cool.
• Can I double the batch? Absolutely! Just grab an extra mixing bowl, and you’re good to go.
• Can I use chocolate chunks instead of chips? Yes! Chunks provide a fabulous gooey texture.

There’s truly nothing like sinking your teeth into a warm chocolate chip cookie fresh out of the oven. Not only are these cookies delicious, but they also bring back wonderful memories and create new ones with every batch you bake. So don’t just sit there—make these cookies! I can’t wait to hear how they turn out for you. Reach out with your own twists and variations, and let’s make this a cookie-loving community!

Print Recipe

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Best Ever Chocolate Chip Cookies

Difficulty: Beginner Prep Time Cook Time Total Time 26 hrs

Cooking Temp: 350  F Servings: 24 Estimated Cost: $ 10 Calories: 150

Best Season: All Year Round

Description

These chocolate chip cookies are soft and chewy with a classic crispy edge. Perfect for any occasion!

Ingredients

Scale

1/2x 1x 2x 3x

Cookie Ingredients

• 2 ¹⁄₄ cups all-purpose flour (Can substitute with gluten-free flour.)
• ¹⁄₂ teaspoon baking soda (Can substitute with baking powder, but texture may differ.)
• 1 cup unsalted butter (Room temperature.)
• ³⁄₄ cup granulated sugar (Coconut sugar can be a delightful alternative.)
• ³⁄₄ cup brown sugar (Packed.)
• 1 teaspoon salt (Balances sweetness.)
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract (Use pure vanilla for best flavor.)
• 2 large eggs (Can substitute with applesauce or flaxseed for a vegan option.)
• 2 cups chocolate chips (Use semi-sweet, dark, or milk chocolate.)

Directions

Baking Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven

   Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
   Mark as complete

2. Mix Dry Ingredients

   In a small bowl, whisk together the flour and baking soda. Set aside.
   Mark as complete

3. Cream the Butter and Sugars

   In a large bowl, cream the butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and salt until smooth.
   Use a hand mixer or stand mixer on medium speed for about 3 minutes.
   Mark as complete

4. Add Eggs and Vanilla

   Beat in the vanilla and eggs thoroughly until well combined.
   Mark as complete

5. Combine with Dry Ingredients

   Gradually add the dry ingredients. Mix just until combined.
   Overmixing can lead to dense cookies.
   Mark as complete

6. Fold in Chocolate Chips

   Gently fold in the chocolate chips.
   Mark as complete

7. Drop onto Baking Sheets

   Drop large spoonfuls onto ungreased baking sheets.
   Leave space as they will spread.
   Mark as complete

8. Bake the Cookies

   Bake for 9 to 11 minutes or until golden brown. They will firm up as they cool.
   Mark as complete

9. Cool the Cookies

   Let cool on baking sheets for a few minutes, then transfer to wire racks to cool completely.
   Patience enhances the flavor!
   Mark as complete

Nutrition Facts

Servings 24

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Amount Per Serving

Calories 150kcal

% Daily Value *

Total Fat 8g13%

Saturated Fat 5g25%

Trans Fat 0g

Cholesterol 20mg7%

Sodium 160mg7%

Potassium 50mg2%

Total Carbohydrate 20g7%

Dietary Fiber 1g4%

Sugars 10g

Protein 2g4%

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Vitamin A 200 IU

Vitamin C 0 mg

Calcium 20 mg

Iron 1 mg

Vitamin D 0 IU

Vitamin E 1 IU

Vitamin K 0 mcg

Thiamin 0.1 mg

Riboflavin 0.1 mg

Niacin 0.1 mg

Vitamin B6 0 mg

Folate 5 mcg

Vitamin B12 0.1 mcg

Biotin 0 mcg

Pantothenic Acid 0.3 mg

Phosphorus 25 mg

Iodine 0 mcg

Magnesium 5 mg

Zinc 0.2 mg

Selenium 0 mcg

Copper 0 mg

Manganese 0 mg

Chromium 0 mcg

Molybdenum 0 mcg

Chloride 0 mg

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Note

Chilling the dough for 30 minutes improves flavor and texture.

Keywords: chocolate chip cookies, baking, dessert