Name: Classic Chocolate Chip Cookies
Ingredients: 1 cup Unsalted Butter (softened); ¾ cup Granulated Sugar; ¾ cup Light Brown Sugar (firmly packed); 2 Large Eggs (room temperature); 2 teaspoons Baking Powder; 1 teaspoon Kosher Salt; ½ teaspoon Baking Soda; 2¾ cups All-Purpose Flour; 2 cups Semisweet Chocolate Chips

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The Classic Chocolate Chip Cookies recipe isn’t just any cookie recipe; it’s a cherished memory from my childhood. I remember standing on a stool in the kitchen, eyes wide with anticipation as my mom mixed the dough. The sweet aroma of melting chocolate and warm butter filled the air, creating a magical atmosphere that only freshly baked cookies can bring. There’s something special about the combination of buttery dough and gooey chocolate chips that feels like a warm hug. Whenever I bake these cookies, I’m transported back to those carefree days, sharing warm cookies with family after school while laughter filled the room.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
60 mins

Prep Time:
0 mins

Cook Time:
0 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
150 kcal

Protein:
2 g

Diet:
Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP

Fat:
7 g

Tools Used:
Stand Mixer, Baking Sheet, Parchment Paper

What Sets This Classic Chocolate Chip Cookies Apart

Irresistible Aroma

The smell of baking cookies wafting through the house is simply irresistible. It lures everyone in, creating a cozy atmosphere that even the busiest of people can’t resist. The moment you pull these Classic Chocolate Chip Cookies from the oven, the delightful scent will captivate your senses and perhaps even draw unexpected guests to your kitchen.

Perfect Texture

These cookies hit the sweet spot between chewy and crispy. The edges crisp up beautifully, while the center remains soft and gooey. Each bite delivers a satisfying contrast, making it hard to stop at just one. It’s the type of texture that leaves you craving more, ensuring you’ll return to the cookie jar again and again.

Versatile Treat

Whether you’re hosting a gathering, enjoying a quiet evening at home, or baking for a loved one, these cookies fit every occasion. They’re perfect as a late-night snack or an afternoon pick-me-up with coffee or tea. Making these Classic Chocolate Chip Cookies means you have a sweet treat ready for any moment, whether it’s a celebration or simply a Tuesday.

Simple Ingredients

Made with common pantry staples, these cookies don’t require any fancy ingredients or equipment. You probably have everything you need right in your kitchen. The simplicity of the recipe allows you to whip up a batch with ease, making it accessible to bakers of all skill levels.

Family Tradition

Baking these cookies has become a tradition in my family. Each batch is made with love, often accompanied by stories and laughter. It’s a bonding experience that brings generations together, as family members share their tips, tricks, and favorite variations. Each time I bake them, I’m reminded of the love and connections we share.

Customizable Delight

The beauty of the Classic Chocolate Chip Cookies is their adaptability. While the classic version is delicious, you can easily add your twist. Whether it’s nuts, dried fruit, or a hint of sea salt on top, there’s room for creativity. This encourages bakers to experiment and develop their unique cookie version.

Ingredients for Classic Chocolate Chip Cookies

When it comes to making Classic Chocolate Chip Cookies, the ingredient list is simple yet essential. Each component plays a vital role in creating that perfect cookie, from the rich butter to the sweet chocolate chips. Understanding the purpose of each ingredient helps enhance the overall flavor and texture.

227 grams unsalted butter, softened – This adds richness and moisture, creating a delightful texture.
150 grams granulated sugar – Provides sweetness and a lovely crispness.
165 grams firmly packed light brown sugar – Adds depth of flavor and moisture for that chewy texture.
2 large eggs, room temperature – Acts as a binder, adding structure and richness.
8 grams baking powder – Helps the cookies rise and become fluffy.
3 grams kosher salt – Enhances the sweetness and balances the flavors.
2.5 grams baking soda – Aids in browning and gives the cookies that perfect lift.
344 grams all-purpose flour – The foundation for the cookie dough, providing structure.
340 grams semisweet chocolate chips – The star of the show, adding gooey chocolate goodness.

Recipe Directions for Classic Chocolate Chip Cookies

Making Classic Chocolate Chip Cookies is a joyful process, and I love sharing every step with you. The secret lies in the technique, so pay attention to the details as we bring this delightful treat to life.

Begin by lining a baking sheet with parchment paper. This will prevent the cookies from sticking and make cleanup easier.
In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, combine the unsalted butter and both types of sugar. Beat at medium speed for about 2 to 3 minutes until fluffy. Make sure to stop occasionally to scrape the paddle and the bottom and sides of the bowl. You want it to be well combined and light.
Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. This helps incorporate air into the dough, ensuring your cookies will be light and fluffy. Once the eggs are in, add the vanilla extract and mix until just combined.
In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, kosher salt, and baking soda. Ensure there are no lumps and everything is well combined. This dry mix will help provide structure to your cookies.
With the mixer on low speed, gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients. Beat just until combined, being careful not to overmix. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies, and we want them to be soft and delightful!
Gently stir in the semisweet chocolate chips. This is where the magic starts! You should see the dough studded with chocolate, ready to become cookies.
Using a 3-tablespoon spring-loaded scoop, scoop the dough (about 55 grams each) and place it on the prepared baking sheet. Ensure there’s enough space between each cookie, about 2 inches apart. This allows them to spread properly while baking.
Cover the baking sheet with plastic wrap and refrigerate the dough while you preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Chilling the dough for about 30 minutes helps the flavors meld and results in a chewier texture.
Once the oven is preheated, place the dough balls onto parchment-lined baking sheets, leaving space for spreading.
Bake one pan at a time for 8 to 10 minutes until the edges are golden brown. Rotate the pan halfway through to ensure even baking. The center might look slightly underbaked; it will continue to cook as it cools.
Once done, let the cookies cool on the pan for about 5 minutes; this helps them firm up a bit. Then, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days — if they last that long!

Things Worth Knowing

Chilling the dough: For chewier cookies, refrigerate your cookie dough for at least one hour or overnight. This allows the flavors to develop fully.
Don’t overmix: Once you add the flour, mix just until combined. Overmixing will lead to tough cookies.
Watch the baking time: Keep a close eye on your cookies. They can go from perfect to overbaked quickly.
Use a cookie scoop: This ensures uniform size, helping the cookies bake evenly.

Substitutions and Tips

Making Classic Chocolate Chip Cookies is an art, and a few tips can help you perfect your craft. Here are some helpful suggestions to get the best results.

Storage: Keep the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain freshness. They can also be frozen for longer storage.
Freezing: You can freeze the cookie dough for up to 3 months. Scoop the dough onto a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen, adding a couple of extra minutes to the baking time.
Pairing: Enjoy these cookies with a glass of milk or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful treat.
Variations: Try adding nuts or different types of chocolate chips for a twist on the classic flavor.
Serving: Serve warm for that melty chocolate experience, or let them cool for a sturdier bite.
Experiment: Don’t be afraid to play around with flavors, such as adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm spice note.

Serving Options for Classic Chocolate Chip Cookies

When it comes to serving Classic Chocolate Chip Cookies, there are so many delightful options that enhance this sweet treat.

With Milk: A classic pairing, serve these warm cookies with a glass of cold milk. The combination is comforting and nostalgic.
Ice Cream Sandwiches: For a fun twist, use two cookies to sandwich a scoop of your favorite ice cream. It’s a treat that adults and kids alike will love.
Dessert Platter: Place the cookies on a platter alongside fresh fruit and chocolate-dipped strawberries for a charming dessert spread.
Gift Giving: Package cookies in cute boxes or bags to share with friends and family. They make for lovely gifts for any occasion.
After School Treat: Perfect for after-school snacks, these cookies can bring some joy and energy back into a long day.
Seasonal Variations: For holidays, consider adding festive sprinkles or colored chocolate chips to match the occasion, making them visually appealing.

FAQ

To achieve chewy Classic Chocolate Chip Cookies, one key tip is to refrigerate the dough before baking. Chilling allows the flavors to meld and helps the cookies maintain their shape. Additionally, using more brown sugar than granulated sugar contributes to that chewy texture. Lastly, underbaking slightly will result in a soft interior, enhancing the chewiness. Remember to keep an eye on baking time; remove them from the oven when they still look a bit underdone.

Absolutely! Adding nuts like pecans or walnuts can elevate your Classic Chocolate Chip Cookies to another level of flavor and texture. Simply fold in approximately one cup of chopped nuts along with the chocolate chips in the final mixing step. This addition will bring a delightful crunch and nutty flavor, making each bite even more satisfying.

To keep your Classic Chocolate Chip Cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. This will prevent them from becoming stale. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze the cookies. Just make sure to layer them with parchment paper in a freezer-safe container to avoid sticking. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw at room temperature or pop them in the microwave for a few seconds to regain that fresh-baked warmth.

If your Classic Chocolate Chip Cookies are spreading too much during baking, it could be due to several factors. One common reason is using melted butter instead of softened butter. Ensure your butter is at room temperature before mixing it with the sugars. Additionally, if the dough is too warm when it goes into the oven, it can cause excessive spreading. Try chilling the dough for at least thirty minutes before baking to help control the spread.

Conclusion

The Classic Chocolate Chip Cookies are a timeless treat that brings joy to every occasion. With their perfect balance of chewy, gooey, and crispy textures, these cookies are sure to create fond memories for you and your loved ones. I encourage you to try this recipe, whether for a special event or a cozy night in. You won’t regret it; each bite is a delightful experience that calls for a second, or maybe even a third cookie!