Ultimate Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe
Chocolate chip cookies are a beloved classic, offering the perfect balance of chewy, soft centers and crispy edges. This Ultimate Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe is designed to help you create the most delicious cookies that will impress everyone. Here’s everything you need to know to master this treat.
Ingredients for Ultimate Chocolate Chip Cookies
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to success. Here’s what you’ll need:
Dry Ingredients
All-purpose flour: 2 1/4 cups
Baking soda: 1 teaspoon
Salt: 1/2 teaspoon
Wet Ingredients
Unsalted butter: 1 cup, softened
Granulated sugar: 3/4 cup
Packed brown sugar: 3/4 cup
Vanilla extract: 1 teaspoon
Large eggs: 2
Add-ins
Semi-sweet mini morsels (chocolate chips): 2 cups
Step-by-Step Directions
Preparing the Dry Ingredients
In a medium-sized mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. This ensures the leavening agents and salt are evenly distributed throughout the mixture. Set aside.
Creaming the Butter and Sugars
In a large bowl, combine the softened butter, granulated sugar, and packed brown sugar. Beat the mixture on medium speed using a hand or stand mixer until it becomes light and creamy. This process creates a smooth, sweet base for the cookies.
Adding the Eggs and Vanilla
Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Once the eggs are incorporated, mix in the vanilla extract. This step enhances the flavor of the cookies.
Incorporating the Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed to combine. Avoid overmixing, as this can make the cookies tough.
Stirring in the Chocolate Chips
Fold in the semi-sweet mini morsels using a spatula, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the dough.
Chilling the Dough
Cover the dough with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 24 to 72 hours. Chilling allows the flavors to develop and prevents the cookies from spreading too much during baking.
Preheating the Oven
When ready to bake, preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
Shaping the Dough
Roll the chilled dough into 1 1/2-inch balls and place them on ungreased baking sheets. Be sure to leave enough space between each ball to allow for spreading. Do not flatten the dough balls.
Baking the Cookies
Bake for 9-11 minutes or until the edges are golden brown while the centers remain soft.
Cooling the Cookies
Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 2 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This helps them retain their structure while cooling completely.
Tips for Perfect Chocolate Chip Cookies
Use Quality Ingredients
Opt for high-quality butter, chocolate, and vanilla extract. These small upgrades make a big difference in the flavor of the cookies.
Chill the Dough
Do not skip the chilling step. It enhances flavor and texture while helping the cookies hold their shape during baking.
Measure Accurately
Use measuring cups and spoons for precise measurements. Too much flour or sugar can affect the cookies’ texture.
Adjust for Preferences
For crispier cookies, bake a little longer.
For softer cookies, reduce the baking time by a minute.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I freeze the cookie dough?
Yes, roll the dough into balls, freeze them on a baking sheet, and transfer to an airtight container. Bake directly from frozen, adding 1-2 minutes to the baking time.
Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?
Yes, but reduce the added salt to 1/4 teaspoon to avoid over-salting.
Why is chilling the dough important?
Chilling solidifies the butter, resulting in less spreading during baking. It also enhances the flavor by allowing the ingredients to meld.
How do I store baked cookies?
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze the cookies in a sealed container for up to 3 months.
Can I substitute the chocolate chips?
Absolutely! Try dark chocolate, milk chocolate, or even white chocolate chips. You can also add nuts, dried fruits, or toffee bits for variety.
This Ultimate Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Bake a batch today and enjoy the rich, comforting taste of homemade cookies!