Craving the perfect balance of crispy edges and chewy centers? This Classic Chocolate Chip Cookies recipe delivers warm, gooey goodness with every bite. Made with simple pantry staples, these cookies are easy to whip up for family gatherings, snack time.
Why You’ll Love These Chocolate Chip Cookies
These cookies are a timeless favorite:
- Perfect Texture: Crispy outside, soft and chewy inside.
- Quick & Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes with basic ingredients.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Loved by kids and adults alike.
- Customizable: Add nuts or swap chips for extra flair.
Classic Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe
Ingredients (Makes 24 cookies):
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened (2 sticks)
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 3/4 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat Oven: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
- Cream Butter and Sugars: In a large bowl, beat softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar with a mixer on medium speed until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
- Add Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in eggs one at a time, followed by vanilla extract, until well combined.
- Combine: Gradually add dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined. Fold in chocolate chips and nuts (if using) with a spatula.
- Shape Cookies: Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough (or use a cookie scoop) and place 2 inches apart on prepared baking sheets. Slightly flatten each dough ball for even baking.
- Bake: Bake for 9-11 minutes, or until edges are golden but centers are still soft. Cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Serve: Enjoy warm with a glass of milk or store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cook Time: 10 minutes | Calories: ~180 kcal per cookie
Why This Recipe Rocks
These chocolate chip cookies are both delicious and practical:
- Balanced Sweetness: Brown sugar adds chewiness and depth.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Dough can be refrigerated or frozen for later.
- Kid-Friendly: Simple steps make it a fun baking project.
- Versatile: Perfect for gifting, parties, or late-night cravings.
Tips for Perfect Chocolate Chip Cookies
- Room-Temperature Butter: Ensures a creamy, even texture when creaming.
- Don’t Overmix: Mix dough just until combined to avoid tough cookies.
- Chill Dough (Optional): Refrigerate for 30 minutes for thicker, chewier cookies.
- Check Early: Pull cookies out when centers are soft for that gooey texture.
- Storage: Keep in an airtight container; freeze baked cookies or dough balls for up to 3 months.
Customization Ideas
Make them your own:
- Chip Swap: Use milk chocolate, white chocolate, or butterscotch chips.
- Nutty Crunch: Add pecans, almonds, or skip nuts entirely.
- Salty Twist: Sprinkle sea salt on top before baking.
- Mix-Ins: Toss in 1/4 cup shredded coconut or dried cranberries.
Pairing Suggestions
Enjoy these cookies with:
- Cold Milk: A classic combo for dunking.
- Coffee: A bold roast complements the sweetness.
- Ice Cream: Sandwich a scoop between two cookies for a treat.
- Hot Chocolate: Perfect for cozy evenings.
Conclusion
This Classic Chocolate Chip Cookies recipe is your go-to for perfectly chewy, chocolatey goodness. Easy to make and impossible to resist, these cookies are ideal for any occasion. Bake a batch today and share your cookie love in the comments!