These classic chocolate chip cookies are the quintessential American dessert, beloved for their perfect balance of crunchy edges and gooey centers. Made with a simple yet perfected blend of ingredients, these cookies offer a delectable taste experience with every bite. The recipe uses a combination of brown and granulated sugars with real vanilla extract to create a deep, caramelized flavor, while the generous amount of chocolate chips provides rich, melty goodness.
Why You'll Love These Chocolate Chip Cookies
- Perfect Texture: Achieve the ultimate texture with crispy edges and soft, chewy centers.
- Rich Flavor: The use of both brown sugar and vanilla extract gives these cookies a rich depth of flavor.
- Customizable: Easy to adapt by adding nuts, different types of chocolate, or even a sprinkle of sea salt for a gourmet touch.
- Simple and Fun to Make: Great for baking with kids or a relaxing solo baking session.
Perfect Occasion
Chocolate chip cookies are perfect for virtually any occasion—school events, holiday gatherings, or as a comforting treat to enjoy with a glass of milk or cup of coffee. They're also wonderful as homemade gifts or for bringing a touch of warmth to a new neighbor.
Decoration Tips
- Extra Chocolate: Press a few extra chocolate chips on top before baking for a more inviting look.
- Sea Salt Finish: Sprinkle a bit of flaky sea salt on the cookies right after they come out of the oven to enhance the chocolate flavor and add a sophisticated twist.
- Serve with Style: Stack them on a decorative plate or in a clear cookie jar for a delightful presentation.
Ingredients
- 1 1/4 cups (165g) all-purpose flour
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 3/4 tsp kosher salt
- 1/2 cup (110g) unsalted butter, melted and cooled
- 1/2 cup (100g) light brown sugar, packed
- 1/3 cup (75g) granulated sugar
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 large egg
- 1 1/2 cups (240g) chocolate chips
Prepare the Oven and Baking Sheet:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (177°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Mix Dry Ingredients:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
Combine Wet Ingredients:
- In a large bowl, thoroughly mix the melted butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until it forms a thick paste.
- Whisk in the egg and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth.
Combine and Fold:
- Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture using a spatula, just until combined.
- Gently fold in the chocolate chips, being careful not to overmix.
Chill if Needed:
- If the dough is too sticky, chill in the refrigerator for 15-30 minutes until it is easier to handle.
Bake the Cookies:
- Using a large cookie scoop, place five dough balls on the prepared baking sheet, spaced well apart.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, until the edges are golden and the centers remain pale.
- If the cookies spread too much, gently shape them with a fork or a round cookie cutter while still warm.
Cool and Serve:
- After baking, optionally top the cookies with additional chocolate chips and a sprinkle of sea salt.
- Transfer the cookies to a cooling rack. Allow them to cool for about 20 minutes before serving.
Enjoy these delightful chocolate chip cookies, a timeless treat that brings joy and comfort with each batch! Whether gooey or well-done, they're sure to satisfy any cookie craving.