There's nothing quite like the warm, comforting aroma of freshly baked chocolate chip cookies. And when you make them from scratch, you unlock a level of flavor and texture that store-bought cookies simply can't match. This recipe is for the ultimate chocolate chip cookie, guaranteed to satisfy your sweet tooth and leave you craving for more.
Why You'll Love This Recipe:
- From scratch goodness: Experience the true taste of homemade cookies.
- Perfectly chewy and crispy: The perfect balance of textures.
- Customizable: Add your favorite mix-ins or experiment with different chocolate types.
- Easy to follow: Simple instructions for a rewarding baking experience.
Here's what you'll need:
Ingredients:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 3/4 cup packed light brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
Instructions:
- Cream the butter and sugars: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugars until light and fluffy.
- Add the eggs and vanilla: Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.
- Combine the dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
- Stir in the chocolate chips and nuts: Fold in the chocolate chips and nuts (if using).
- Chill the dough: Cover the dough and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. Chilling the dough helps to prevent the cookies from spreading too much when baking.
- Preheat oven and prepare baking sheets: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Bake the cookies: Scoop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until golden brown.
- Cool and enjoy: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Tips for Success:
- Use high-quality chocolate chips: This will make a big difference in the flavor of the cookies.
- Don't overmix the dough: Overmixing will result in tough cookies.
- Chill the dough thoroughly: This will prevent the cookies from spreading too much.
- Use a cookie scoop: This will ensure that all the cookies are the same size and bake evenly.
These decadent chocolate chip cookies are sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy the sweet satisfaction of baking from scratch!