Chocolate Chip Cookies

Name: Chocolate Chip Cookies
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 24 cookies
Ingredients: 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour; 1/2 teaspoon baking soda; 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 1 cup packed brown sugar; 1 teaspoon salt; 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract; 2 large eggs; 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

Deliciously chewy and loaded with chocolate chips, these Chocolate Chip Cookies are a timeless treat that everyone loves.

Created by

Noelle Chambers

Last updated on 2025-12-21T03:55:52.141Z

Chocolate Chip Cookies are a classic favorite that bring back memories of baking with family and friends. The perfect balance of sweet and chewy, these cookies are ideal for any occasion!

        Why You'll Love These Cookies
        Rich chocolate flavor that satisfies your sweet tooth
Soft and chewy texture with a slight crisp around the edges
Quick and easy to make, perfect for any baking occasion

      

The History of Chocolate Chip Cookies

Chocolate chip cookies have a fascinating history dating back to the 1930s when Ruth Wakefield, the owner of the Toll House Inn in Massachusetts, invented the recipe. Initially, she intended to make chocolate cookies, but instead, she chopped up a bar of Nestlé chocolate and mixed it into the dough, creating a delightful new treat. This innovative twist quickly gained popularity and became a staple in American households.

In fact, the original recipe was so beloved that Nestlé struck a deal with Wakefield to include her recipe on their chocolate packaging. This partnership not only solidified the cookie's place in American dessert culture but also led to the creation of the famous Toll House cookie. Today, variations of this classic cookie abound, but the original remains a cherished favorite.

Perfecting Your Chocolate Chip Cookies

To achieve the perfect chocolate chip cookie, it's essential to balance the ingredients correctly. The ratio of butter to flour is crucial; too much butter can lead to overly flat cookies, while too little can result in a dry texture. Using room temperature butter allows for better incorporation of air, leading to a lighter, chewier cookie. Don't forget to measure your flour correctly, as too much can also affect the cookie's consistency.

Another tip for achieving cookie perfection is to chill your dough before baking. This step helps the flavors meld together and prevents the cookies from spreading too much in the oven. If you're short on time, even a 30-minute chill can make a significant difference in the final product. Experimenting with different types of chocolate, such as dark, milk, or even white chocolate, can also elevate your cookies to new heights.

Storing and Serving Your Cookies

Once you've baked a batch of these delicious chocolate chip cookies, you'll want to know how to store them for maximum freshness. Allow the cookies to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. Properly stored, they can last up to a week at room temperature or can be frozen for up to three months. Just be sure to layer them with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

When it comes to serving, warm cookies straight from the oven are undeniably the best, but you can also reheat them for a few seconds in the microwave. Pair your cookies with a glass of cold milk, a scoop of ice cream, or even a cup of coffee for a delightful treat any time of day. These cookies are perfect for sharing at gatherings, or simply enjoying as a cozy snack at home.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to get started:

Ingredients

2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1 cup packed brown sugar
1 teaspoon salt
2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
2 large eggs
2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips

Make sure to measure your ingredients accurately for the best results!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your perfect cookies:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Mix Dry Ingredients

In a small bowl, whisk together the flour and baking soda; set aside.

Cream Butter and Sugars

In a large bowl, using a mixer, cream the butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and salt until smooth.

Add Eggs and Vanilla

Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla.

Combine Mixtures

Gradually blend in the flour mixture. Fold in the chocolate chips.

Scoop and Bake

Drop by rounded tablespoon onto ungreased baking sheets. Bake for 9 to 11 minutes or until edges are golden brown.

Cool and Enjoy

Remove from oven and let cool on baking sheets for 2 minutes before transferring to wire racks.

Enjoy your homemade cookies with a glass of milk!

Baking Tips for Success

When baking chocolate chip cookies, it's important to not overmix the dough once you add the flour. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies. Mix just until the flour is incorporated, and then gently fold in the chocolate chips. This will give you that desirable soft and chewy texture.

Additionally, invest in a good baking sheet. Light-colored sheets reflect heat, helping cookies bake evenly, while dark sheets can lead to burnt bottoms. Always line your baking sheets with parchment paper for easy cleanup and to prevent sticking.

Customization Ideas

Feel free to get creative with your chocolate chip cookies! Add chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for a delightful crunch. You can also incorporate oats for a heartier texture or even sprinkle a little sea salt on top before baking for a sweet and salty flavor combination that elevates the cookie experience.

For a fun twist, try adding a tablespoon of espresso powder to the dough for a rich coffee flavor, or mix in a few tablespoons of peanut butter for a delicious chocolate-peanut butter fusion. The possibilities are endless!

Serving Suggestions

Chocolate chip cookies are not just great on their own; they can also be used as a base for many desserts. Crumble them over a scoop of ice cream for a cookie sundae or use them to create a delicious ice cream sandwich. Just scoop your favorite ice cream between two cookies and enjoy a delightful treat.

For a festive touch, consider drizzling melted chocolate or caramel over your cookies before serving. This adds an extra layer of flavor and makes them visually appealing. Whether for a party or a simple family gathering, these cookies will surely impress your guests!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use chocolate chips other than semi-sweet?

Yes! You can use milk chocolate, dark chocolate, or even white chocolate chips.

→ How do I store leftover cookies?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.

→ Can I freeze the cookie dough?

Absolutely! You can freeze the dough for up to 3 months. Just thaw before baking.

→ What should I do if my cookies spread too much?

Make sure your butter is softened, not melted, and chill the dough for 30 minutes before baking.