Save These classic chewy chocolate chip cookies feature golden, crisp edges and soft, chewy centers. Combining softened butter, sugars, and vanilla with flour, baking soda, and salt creates a flavorful dough. Folded in generous semisweet chocolate chips add rich bursts of chocolate in every bite. Baking at 350°F ensures perfect texture with a slightly crispy outside and tender middle. For best results, chill the dough before baking or customize with nuts. Ideal for pairing with milk, coffee, or dessert wine.
Discovering this classic chocolate chip cookie recipe was like finding a hidden treasure in my grandma's old cookbook. The warmth of freshly baked cookies filling the kitchen instantly brings back those cozy childhood afternoons.
I still remember the first time I nailed these cookies when surprise guests dropped by. Warm, sweet, and utterly comforting, they turned the unexpected visit into a little celebration.
Ingredients
- All-purpose flour: I always measure carefully to keep the texture just right — not too cakey, not too tough.
- Baking soda: This little ingredient helps the cookies rise and get those lovely golden edges.
- Salt: Just a pinch to balance the sweetness and bring out the chocolate flavor.
- Unsalted butter: Softened but not melted, it creams beautifully with sugars for that tender crumb.
- Granulated sugar & light brown sugar: The combo gives sweetness and moisture that keep the cookies soft.
- Eggs: The glue that binds everything together and adds richness.
- Pure vanilla extract: Always use pure vanilla — it adds depth you can't fake.
- Semisweet chocolate chips: The star of the show, folded gently to keep the dough fluffy.
Instructions
- Get Everything Ready:
- Preheat your oven and line two baking sheets with parchment paper. The anticipation starts here as your kitchen begins to warm up.
- Mix the Dry Ingredients:
- Whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt until evenly combined — this frames the structure of the cookies.
- Cream the Butter and Sugars:
- Beat softened butter with granulated and brown sugar until creamy and light; the air you incorporate here is what gives the final cookie that tender crumb.
- Add Eggs and Vanilla:
- Adding eggs one at a time ensures smooth mixing, and the vanilla infuses a delightful aroma you can almost taste.
- Combine Wet and Dry:
- Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet, mixing just until combined to avoid tough cookies.
- Fold in Chocolate Chips:
- Gently fold in the chocolate chips so they stay intact, tempting you with pockets of melty sweetness.
- Portion the Dough:
- Scoop tablespoon-sized mounds onto your prepared trays, leaving room for spreading — the dough looks promising already.
- Bake to Perfection:
- Bake for 10-12 minutes until edges are golden and centers are set; the smell filling your kitchen is worth every second.
- Cool Before Enjoying:
- Let cookies rest on the baking sheet briefly, then transfer to a cooling rack so they finish firming up just right.
Save More than just cookies, these became a tradition — a comfort during rainy afternoons and a celebration when friends gathered, reminding me of how simple joys taste best when shared.
Keeping It Fresh
Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature to keep them soft and chewy. If they start to harden, a slice of bread inside the container works magic to reintroduce moisture.
When You're Missing Something
If you run out of chocolate chips, chopped nuts or dried fruit make great mix-ins. Experimenting here lets you keep the base recipe but tailor it to what you have on hand.
Serving Ideas That Clicked
These cookies pair wonderfully with a cold glass of milk or your favorite coffee. They also make an irresistible sandwich cookie with a smear of peanut butter or Nutella in between.
- Don't forget to share your favorites when friends visit; cookies always bring people together.
- Oh wait one more thing: a sprinkle of sea salt on top before baking lifts the flavors beautifully.
- Keep an eye on baking times as ovens vary — perfection is just a minute away.
Save Thanks for sticking with me through this recipe chat — I hope these cookies bring as much warmth to your home as they did to mine.
Recipe FAQ
- → What makes these cookies chewy?
-
The balance of softened butter and sugars, particularly brown sugar, contributes to the chewy texture while baking ensures crisp edges.
- → Can I substitute chocolate chips?
-
Yes, half the chocolate chips can be replaced with chopped nuts for added texture and flavor.
- → How important is chilling the dough?
-
Chilling the dough for an hour helps to develop flavors and prevents spreading, resulting in thicker, more flavorful cookies.
- → What oven temperature is recommended?
-
Baking at 350°F (175°C) produces the ideal contrast of crisp edges and soft centers.
- → How should I store leftovers?
-
Store cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain freshness and chewiness.
