There’s something special about a warm, freshly baked Classic Chocolate Chip Cookie.
It feels like home. The soft texture and rich chocolate chunks make it a favorite for all ages.
Whether for a special event or just because this recipe is essential.
We will guide you through making the perfect batch.
You will learn about simple ingredients and pro tips.
Get ready to bake your way to cookie perfection!
Why You’ll Love This Classic Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe
This classic chocolate chip cookie recipe is unmatched.
It offers soft centers, crispy edges, and rich chocolate flavor.
It’s simple, using common ingredients and a straightforward process for success every time.
The Essential Ingredients for Classic Chocolate Chip Cookies
The beauty of this Classic Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe is its simplicity.
You don’t need fancy stuff to make these cookies. Here’s what you’ll need:
| Ingredient | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| All-purpose flour | 1 1/4 cups (160g) | Spoon and level for accurate measurement. |
| Baking soda | 1/2 teaspoon | Helps the cookies rise and spread evenly. |
| Salt | 1/2 teaspoon | Enhances the flavor of the chocolate and dough. |
| Unsalted butter | 3/4 cup (170g), softened | Ensure butter is softened, not melted. |
| Granulated sugar | 1/2 cup (100g) | Adds sweetness and contributes to the cookie’s structure. |
| Brown sugar | 1 cup (200g), packed | Gives a chewy texture and rich flavor. |
| Vanilla extract | 1 teaspoon | Adds that quintessential cookie flavor. |
| Eggs | 2 large | Provides moisture and structure. |
| Semi-sweet chocolate chips | 2 cups (340g) | You can substitute with milk chocolate chips or dark chocolate. |
| Chopped nuts (optional) | 1 cup | Walnuts or pecans work best, but this is optional. |
These ingredients make a balanced dough for perfect classic chocolate chip cookies. The mix of butter, sugars, and eggs ensures a rich, beautiful dough every time.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Baking Classic Chocolate Chip Cookies
Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s dive into the Classic Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe and break down each step.
Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare Baking Sheets
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven is heating, line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats. This ensures your cookies won’t stick and makes cleanup a breeze.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. This is an essential step as it evenly distributes the leavening agents (baking soda and salt) throughout the flour. Set this bowl aside for later.
Step 3: Cream Together the Butter and Sugars
In a large mixing bowl, beat together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar using an electric mixer. Mix on medium speed for about 2-3 minutes, or until the mixture is light and fluffy. This process is key for creating cookies that are soft on the inside and slightly crisp on the outside. The butter and sugars need to be fully incorporated to ensure the right texture.
Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla Extract
Next, add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Then, stir in the vanilla extract. This combination of eggs and vanilla is what gives the dough its flavor and structure.
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry flour mixture to the wet ingredients. Mix on low speed to avoid flour flying everywhere. Once the flour is mostly incorporated, switch to a spatula or spoon and fold the dough until fully combined. Be careful not to overmix the dough as this can result in dense cookies.
Step 6: Add the Chocolate Chips (and Nuts, if Using)
Once the dough is ready, gently fold in the semi-sweet chocolate chips and optional chopped nuts. Make sure they are evenly distributed throughout the dough. You can use a spatula for this part, or simply stir with your hands if you prefer.
Step 7: Scoop and Shape the Dough
Using a cookie scoop or a tablespoon, drop rounded balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheets. Space them about 2 inches apart to allow for spreading as they bake. For uniform cookies, measure your dough balls so they are roughly the same size.
Step 8: Bake the Cookies
Bake your cookies for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown, but the centers are slightly soft. The cookies will continue to cook as they cool, so err on the side of underbaking if you prefer a chewier texture. For crispier cookies, leave them in for the full 12 minutes.
Step 9: Cool and Enjoy!
Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes. Then, transfer them to wire racks to cool completely. Enjoy your freshly baked classic chocolate chip cookies with a glass of milk, or store them in an airtight container for up to a week.
Tips for Perfect Classic Chocolate Chip Cookies
- Butter Temperature Matters: Make sure your butter is soft, but not melted. Softened butter will give the cookies the perfect texture, while melted butter can make them greasy and flat.
- Don’t Overmix the Dough: Overmixing the dough can lead to dense cookies. Mix until just combined for the best texture.
- Chill the Dough: For thicker cookies, chill the dough in the fridge for 30 minutes before baking. This helps prevent the cookies from spreading too much.
- Use Quality Chocolate Chips: The quality of your chocolate chips can make a huge difference in flavor. Opt for a high-quality semi-sweet or dark chocolate for the best results.
- Measuring Flour: When measuring flour, always spoon it into your measuring cup and level it off. Too much flour can result in dry cookies.
Variations and Add-ins
If you’re feeling creative, here are some variations to try with your classic chocolate chip cookies:
- Dark Chocolate Chips: Swap the semi-sweet chips for dark chocolate chips for a richer, slightly bitter flavor.
- Milk Chocolate Chips: Prefer sweeter cookies? Use milk chocolate chips instead for a softer, sweeter taste.
- Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookies: Add 1/2 cup of rolled oats for a chewy, hearty twist.
- Peanut Butter: Mix in 1/2 cup of peanut butter chips for a nutty flavor that complements the chocolate.
- Sea Salt: Sprinkle a little flaky sea salt on top of the cookies before baking for a sweet and salty contrast.
How to Store and Freeze Your Cookies
Once your classic chocolate chip cookies have cooled completely, store them in an airtight container to keep them fresh for up to 1 week.
If you’d like to store them for longer, freeze the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet for about 1 hour.
After they’ve firmed up, transfer them to a resealable freezer bag or airtight container.
They will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months.
To reheat, simply pop them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds, or bake at 300°F (150°C) for 5 minutes to bring back that just-baked freshness.
FAQs About Classic Chocolate Chip Cookies
Can I use margarine instead of butter?
While margarine can be used in place of butter, it may change the texture of the cookies slightly. Butter provides a richer flavor and better texture, so we recommend sticking with the real deal for the best results.
Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Yes! You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Be sure to use a blend that includes xanthan gum or another binding agent for the best texture.
Why are my cookies flat?
Flat cookies are usually the result of using melted butter or too much sugar. Make sure your butter is softened, not melted, and measure your ingredients accurately.
Conclusion
There’s no denying that classic chocolate chip cookies are one of the most beloved baked goods around.
With this easy-to-follow Classic Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe, you will be able to bake up a batch that’s perfectly chewy, golden, and full of melty chocolate goodness.
Whether you’re enjoying them with a glass of milk or sharing them with loved ones, these cookies are sure to bring smiles to everyone who tries them.
If you’ve baked this recipe, we’d love to hear about your experience in the comments!
And don’t forget to share the joy by passing this recipe along to friends and family!
Happy baking!