chocolate chip cookies

Here’s an easy recipe for chocolate chip cookies that is optimized for user search intent and aligns with Google-friendly writing practices. This recipe includes commonly searched keywords like “soft chocolate chip cookies,” “classic cookie recipe,” and “best homemade cookies.”

Easy Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe

Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 24 cookies

Looking to bake the perfect chocolate chip cookies? These cookies are soft, chewy, and loaded with gooey chocolate chips. They’re a favorite for all occasions, from afternoon snacks to holiday treats. Follow this step-by-step recipe for consistent and delicious results every time.

Ingredients

  • 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 cup packed light brown sugar
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs, at room temperature
  • 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
  • 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips

Instructions

  1. Preheat Your Oven
    Set the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper. This ensures even baking and prevents sticking.
  2. Mix the Wet Ingredients
    In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until smooth and fluffy. This takes about 2-3 minutes using a hand or stand mixer. Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
  3. Prepare the Dry Ingredients
    In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined. Avoid overmixing, as it can make the cookies dense.
  4. Add the Chocolate Chips
    Fold in the chocolate chips using a spatula to ensure an even distribution. For a mix of textures, try adding a combination of semi-sweet and milk chocolate chips.
  5. Shape the Cookies
    Scoop out the dough using a tablespoon or cookie scoop and place the dough balls onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Slightly flatten each ball to help the cookies spread evenly.
  6. Bake to Perfection
    Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until the edges are golden brown and the centers look slightly underbaked. Remember, cookies continue to cook on the baking sheet after being removed from the oven.
  7. Cool and Enjoy
    Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This step ensures a chewy texture.

Tips for Perfect Cookies

  • Measure Accurately: Use the scoop-and-level method for measuring flour to avoid using too much, which can make cookies dry.
  • Soften Butter Correctly: Let the butter sit at room temperature until soft but not melted for the best creaming results.
  • Customize Your Recipe: Add a pinch of cinnamon or a sprinkle of sea salt on top for a flavor twist.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes! You can refrigerate the dough for up to 3 days or freeze it for up to 3 months. Baking chilled dough creates thicker cookies with a chewier texture.

2. What if I don’t have chocolate chips?
Chop a chocolate bar into small chunks or mix in other add-ins like nuts, dried fruits, or white chocolate chips.

3. How do I store baked cookies?
Keep cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. To maintain freshness, add a slice of bread to the container—it keeps the cookies soft.

Nutritional Information (Per Cookie)

  • Calories: 200
  • Protein: 2g
  • Fat: 10g
  • Carbohydrates: 27g

Final Thoughts

This classic chocolate chip cookie recipe is an all-time favorite for good reason. It’s easy, versatile, and results in perfectly soft and chewy cookies every time. Bake a batch today and share the joy with your family and friends!

Leave a comment