Homemade Chocolate Chip Cookies
There’s nothing quite like the warm, inviting aroma of homemade chocolate chip cookies filling your kitchen. These cookies are soft, chewy, and loaded with rich chocolate chips, making them a beloved favorite for all ages. Whether enjoyed fresh out of the oven or as a delightful dessert, this recipe will surely become a staple in your baking repertoire.
Ingredients
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 cup unsalted butter, room temperature
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1 cup packed brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– 2 large eggs
– 2 cups semisweet chocolate chips
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe makes about 24 cookies. Preparation time is approximately 15 minutes, and cooking time is around 10-12 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1 cookie) contains approximately:
– Calories: 150
– Total Fat: 7g
– Saturated Fat: 4g
– Carbohydrates: 22g
– Sugars: 10g
– Protein: 2g
(Note: Values are based on one cookie.)
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix flour and baking soda; set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and salt until smooth.
4. Beat in the vanilla extract and eggs until well blended.
5. Gradually add the flour mixture, stirring until just combined.
6. Fold in the chocolate chips.
7. Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto ungreased baking sheets, spacing them 2 inches apart.
8. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are golden but centers are still soft.
9. Remove from the oven and let cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes.
10. Transfer cookies to wire racks to cool completely.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version. Dark chocolate chips can replace semisweet for a richer flavor, and coconut oil can be used instead of butter for a dairy-free option.
Serving and Pairings
These cookies pair perfectly with a glass of cold milk, coffee, or hot chocolate. They can also be served alongside vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert.
Storage and Reheating
Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. For longer storage, freeze them for up to three months. To reheat, simply microwave for about 10 seconds.
Cooking Mistakes
- Overmixing the dough can lead to tough cookies.
- Not measuring flour correctly can affect cookie texture.
- Using cold butter instead of room temperature can hinder creaming.
- Skipping the cooling step can result in cookies spreading too much.
- Not spacing cookies properly on the baking sheet can cause them to merge.
Helpful Tips
- Chill the dough for 30 minutes for thicker cookies.
- Use parchment paper on baking sheets for easy cleanup.
- Add nuts for extra texture and flavor.
- Experiment with different types of chocolate chips.
FAQs
What can I do if my cookie dough is too sticky?
If your cookie dough is too sticky, try chilling it in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. This will make it easier to handle and shape.
Can I use brown sugar instead of white sugar?
Yes, using brown sugar will make your cookies chewier and add a deeper flavor. You can substitute it for white sugar in equal amounts.
Why are my cookies flat?
Flat cookies can result from too little flour or melted butter. Ensure you measure flour accurately and use soft, not melted, butter.
How do I know when the cookies are done?
Cookies are done when the edges are golden brown but the centers still look soft. They will continue to cook on the baking sheet after removal.
Can I freeze the cookie dough?
Absolutely! You can freeze the dough for up to three months. Scoop out portions onto a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a bag for storage.
Conclusion
Homemade chocolate chip cookies are a timeless treat that brings joy to any occasion. With this simple recipe, you can create delicious cookies that are sure to satisfy any sweet tooth. Enjoy baking and sharing these delightful goodies!
Homemade Chocolate Chip Cookies
Ingredients
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 cup unsalted butter room temperature
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup packed brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 large eggs
- 2 cups semisweet chocolate chips
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a small bowl, mix flour and baking soda; set aside.
- In a large bowl, cream butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and salt until smooth.
- Beat in the vanilla extract and eggs until well blended.
- Gradually add the flour mixture, stirring until just combined.
- Fold in the chocolate chips.
- Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto ungreased baking sheets, spacing them 2 inches apart.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are golden but centers are still soft.
- Remove from the oven and let cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes.
- Transfer cookies to wire racks to cool completely.
