Chocolate Chip Cookies

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Chocolate Chip Cookies are a timeless classic, loved for their golden edges, soft centers, and gooey pockets of melted chocolate. Perfect for any occasion—from after-school snacks to holiday platters—these cookies are both comforting and irresistible. With just the right balance of chewiness and crispness, they’re sure to become your go-to cookie recipe.

ingredients

this Recipe

Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.

all-purpose flour
unsalted butter
granulated sugar
brown sugar
eggs
vanilla extract
baking soda
salt
semi-sweet chocolate chips

directions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.

Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition, then stir in the vanilla extract.

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing just until combined.

Fold in the chocolate chips evenly throughout the dough.

Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough and place them on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each.

Bake for 9-11 minutes, or until the edges are golden and the centers look just set.

Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 24 cookies.
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 9-11 minutes
Cooling time: 10 minutes
Total time: 35-40 minutes

Variations

Add chopped walnuts or pecans for a nutty crunch.
Sprinkle a pinch of sea salt on top before baking for a sweet-salty contrast.
Use dark or milk chocolate chunks instead of chips for a gourmet twist.
Mix in white chocolate or butterscotch chips for a flavor variation.
Make mini cookies by using a smaller scoop and reducing baking time.

storage/reheating

Store Chocolate Chip Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
For longer storage, freeze the baked cookies for up to 3 months or freeze the dough balls and bake from frozen.
To reheat, warm a cookie in the microwave for 10-15 seconds for that fresh-out-of-the-oven feel.

FAQs

Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?
Yes, but reduce the added salt in the recipe to avoid over-salting.

Why are my cookies flat?
Ensure your butter isn’t too soft and don’t overmix the dough.

Can I chill the dough before baking?
Absolutely—chilling helps prevent spreading and enhances flavor.

How do I make the cookies softer?
Use more brown sugar than white sugar and avoid overbaking.

Can I double this recipe?
Yes, it scales well for larger batches.

Do I need to use parchment paper?
It helps prevent sticking, but you can also use a silicone baking mat.

Can I use margarine instead of butter?
Butter is preferred for flavor, but margarine can be used if needed.

Are these cookies freezer-friendly?
Yes, both the dough and baked cookies freeze well.

Can I add oatmeal to this recipe?
Yes, for a heartier texture, substitute part of the flour with quick oats.

What type of chocolate works best?
Semi-sweet chocolate chips are traditional, but any kind works depending on your taste.

Conclusion

Chocolate Chip Cookies are a beloved treat with a perfect balance of chewy texture and rich chocolate flavor. Whether you’re baking them for a party or a cozy night in, they’re always a hit. Simple to make and easy to customize, this recipe is one every home baker should have in their collection.

Print