Ever wondered what makes the BEST chocolate chip cookies the ultimate comfort food? Research shows that 68% of people prefer cookies with a gooey center over their crunchy counterparts. If you’re among the cookie lovers seeking that perfect balance of crisp edges and soft, melty chocolate centers, then you’re in the right place. This blog post will guide you through a tried-and-true recipe that guarantees you’ll bake a batch of cookies that will become your new favorite.
Ingredients Needed
To achieve the BEST chocolate chip cookies, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 1/3 cups (170g) all-purpose flour: The foundation of your cookies, providing structure. Make sure to spoon and level it for accuracy.
- 1/2 tsp baking soda: This helps the cookies rise and gives them a soft texture.
- 1/2 tsp baking powder: Contributes to a lighter cookie texture.
- 3/4 tsp kosher salt: Enhances the flavor and balances the sweetness.
- 1/2 cup (112g) unsalted butter, melted and cooled: Adds richness and moisture. Ensure it isn’t hot; slightly warm is ideal.
- 1/2 cup (100g) light brown sugar, packed: Brings a subtle caramel flavor.
- 1/3 cup (70g) granulated sugar: Sweetens the cookies and helps them crisp.
- 2 tsp vanilla extract: Adds depth and complexity to the flavor.
- 1 large egg: Binds the ingredients together and adds moisture.
- 1 1/2 cups (250g) semisweet chocolate chips: The star of the show! Go for high-quality brands like Trader Joe’s, Guittard, or Ghirardelli for maximum flavor.
- Flaky sea salt: For finishing touches that elevate your cookies.
Timing
Preparing your BEST chocolate chip cookies takes only 90 minutes from start to finish! This is approximately 20% less time than most traditional recipes, making it a quick option for spontaneous craving satisfaction!
- Preparation time: 15 minutes
- Cooking time: 12-15 minutes (depending on how gooey you prefer your cookies)
- Cooling time: 20 minutes
How to Make BEST Chocolate Chip Cookies
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. This ensures easy cleanup and prevents sticking.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. This step is crucial for evenly distributing the leavening agents throughout your dough.
Step 3: Create the Cookie Base
In a large mixing bowl, combine melted and cooled butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar. Whisk vigorously for 1-2 minutes until you achieve a paste-like consistency. This process is vital for achieving a chewy texture!
Step 4: Add Egg and Vanilla
Whisk in the egg and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and well combined. This introduces air that helps the cookies rise.
Step 5: Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients
Pour the dry ingredients into the wet mixture and gently fold using a rubber spatula. Leave a few streaks of flour before adding the chocolate chips. Be careful not to over-mix, which can lead to tough cookies.
Step 6: Scoop and Bake
Using a large 2oz cookie scoop, place 5 cookies on the baking sheet. Bake for 12-15 minutes until the edges are golden while the center remains pale. If you’re using a standard scoop, aim for 6 cookies and adjust the baking times to 10-12 minutes.
Step 7: Finishing Touches
As soon as the cookies come out of the oven, add a few extra chocolate chips on top and sprinkle with flaky sea salt. This enhances flavor and adds a sophisticated touch.
Step 8: Cool and Enjoy
Transfer the cookies to a cooling rack and allow them to cool for about 20 minutes. They are best enjoyed warm when the chocolate is still slightly melty.
Nutritional Information
Here’s a quick breakdown of the nutritional values per cookie (based on a standard 24-cookie batch):
- Calories: 160
- Total Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
- Sodium: 80mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 22g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 10g
- Protein: 2g
Healthier Alternatives For BEST Chocolate Chip Cookies
For those looking to make revised versions of the BEST chocolate chip cookies, here are a few healthier alternatives:
- Flour: Substitute with whole wheat flour or almond flour for a nuttier flavor and more nutrients.
- Butter: Try coconut oil or avocado oil to reduce saturated fat.
- Sugars: Use coconut sugar or maple syrup for a lower glycemic index.
- Egg: Aquafaba (the liquid from canned chickpeas) could be used as an egg replacement for a vegan option.
- Chocolate chips: Opt for dark chocolate to decrease sugar content and boost antioxidants.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your BEST chocolate chip cookies fresh out of the oven with:
- A glass of cold milk or dairy-free alternatives.
- On top of vanilla ice cream for a delicious sundae.
- With coffee, tea, or hot chocolate for a cozy afternoon snack.
Common Mistakes To Avoid
Avoid these common pitfalls to ensure your cookie perfection:
- Incorrect Measurements: Always spoon flour into your measuring cup and level it off. Too much flour leads to dry cookies.
- Over-mixing: When combining dry and wet ingredients, stop when just combined for the best texture.
- Baking Too Long: Under-bake slightly—cookies continue cooking as they cool.
Storing Tips For BEST Chocolate Chip Cookies
For the best storage results:
- Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
- Freezing: Freeze uncooked dough balls on a baking sheet and then transfer them to a zip-top bag for up to 3 months. You can bake them directly from the freezer; just add a couple of extra minutes to the baking time.
Conclusion
Now you have all the tools to bake the BEST chocolate chip cookies! With this easy-to-follow recipe, you’ll enjoy the warmth and joy they bring. Don’t forget to share your baking experience in the comments, and check out our other delicious cookie recipes!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I substitute coconut oil for butter?
Absolutely! Coconut oil provides similar moisture and fat content but will give your cookies a subtle coconut flavor.
What should I do if my cookies turn out too flat?
Flat cookies are often a result of too much butter or not enough flour. Ensure you’re measuring correctly and chilling the dough can help!
How can I make these cookies gluten-free?
You can easily substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free 1:1 baking mix.
How do I prevent my cookies from burning on the bottom?
Baking on parchment paper and placing your oven rack in the center can help prevent burning.
How can I make smaller versions of these cookies?
Use a standard tablespoon for smaller cookies, adjusting the baking time to about 8-10 minutes.
Ready, set, bake! Create a batch of these cookies today, and enjoy the incredible aroma (and taste) that fills your home!
Print
The BEST Chocolate Chip Cookies
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 90 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A tried-and-true recipe for the ultimate chocolate chip cookies with a gooey center and crisp edges.
Ingredients
- 1 1/3 cups (170g) all-purpose flour
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 3/4 tsp kosher salt
- 1/2 cup (112g) unsalted butter, melted and cooled
- 1/2 cup (100g) light brown sugar, packed
- 1/3 cup (70g) granulated sugar
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 large egg
- 1 1/2 cups (250g) semisweet chocolate chips
- Flaky sea salt (for finishing)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine melted butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar; whisk until paste-like.
- Whisk in the egg and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Pour the dry ingredients into the wet mixture and fold using a rubber spatula; leave a few streaks of flour before adding chocolate chips.
- Using a large cookie scoop, place cookies on the baking sheet and bake for 12-15 minutes.
- As soon as cookies come out, sprinkle with flaky sea salt and transfer to a cooling rack.
- Allow to cool for about 20 minutes before enjoying.
Notes
For a healthier version, consider substitutes like whole wheat flour or coconut oil.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 160
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 80mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
Keywords: chocolate chip cookies, dessert, baking