Introduction
Few desserts can match the comfort and joy that comes from a freshly baked batch of chocolate chip cookies. Their golden edges, soft centers, and sweet aroma create a treat that appeals to people of all ages. Baking these cookies at home not only fills the kitchen with warmth but also allows you to enjoy them at their very best, straight from the oven.
An easy chocolate chip cookie recipe is a must for every home baker. It offers a perfect balance of chewy texture and rich chocolate flavor without requiring complicated techniques. These cookies come together with everyday pantry ingredients, making them both practical and rewarding to prepare. Each bite brings a satisfying mix of buttery dough and melted chocolate pieces, ensuring that this recipe will quickly become a favorite in your household.
Ingredients Needed
| Ingredient | Amount | Calories |
|---|---|---|
| All purpose flour | 2 ¼ cups | 910 |
| Baking soda | 1 tsp | 0 |
| Salt | ½ tsp | 0 |
| Unsalted butter, softened | 1 cup | 1600 |
| Granulated sugar | ¾ cup | 600 |
| Brown sugar | ¾ cup | 570 |
| Large eggs | 2 | 140 |
| Vanilla extract | 2 tsp | 24 |
| Semi sweet chocolate chips | 2 cups | 960 |
Total calories for the full batch will vary depending on portion size, but each cookie usually ranges from 150 to 200 calories.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit so it is ready when the dough is prepared.
- In a medium bowl, whisk the flour, baking soda, and salt together to blend the dry ingredients.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter until smooth and creamy.
- Add the granulated sugar and brown sugar to the butter and continue beating until fluffy.
- Crack the eggs into the bowl one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- Stir in the vanilla extract to bring a sweet and fragrant base flavor.
- Gradually add the dry mixture into the wet mixture, stirring until just combined to avoid overmixing.
- Fold in the chocolate chips gently, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the dough.
- Scoop spoonfuls of dough onto a parchment lined baking sheet, spacing them two inches apart.
- Bake for 10 to 12 minutes until the edges are golden and the centers look set.
- Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for five minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Tips for Customizing the Recipe
Chocolate chip cookies offer endless opportunities for customization. For a chewier texture, use more brown sugar than white sugar. For a crispier cookie, extend the baking time slightly. Adding chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans brings a satisfying crunch, while mixing in white chocolate or butterscotch chips creates new flavor combinations. For a gourmet touch, sprinkle a pinch of flaky sea salt over the cookies just after baking. Freezing the dough for later use also allows you to enjoy fresh cookies any time.
Nutritional Information
One standard sized cookie contains approximately 180 calories. The cookie provides a mix of carbohydrates from the flour and sugar, fats from the butter and chocolate, and a small amount of protein from the eggs. While not a low calorie snack, these cookies are a delightful indulgence when enjoyed in moderation. Using dark chocolate chips or reducing sugar slightly can create a version that feels a bit lighter without losing the comforting taste.
Serving Suggestions
Chocolate chip cookies shine on their own, but they also pair wonderfully with other foods. Serving them warm with a glass of cold milk creates a timeless treat. They can also be turned into ice cream sandwiches by layering vanilla or chocolate ice cream between two cookies. Crumbled cookies make a fun topping for yogurt, pudding, or sundaes. During holidays, packaging them in decorative tins or bags makes them a thoughtful homemade gift for friends and family.
Conclusion
Easy chocolate chip cookies bring a sense of nostalgia and happiness with every bite. Their simple preparation and classic flavor make them a go to recipe for both new and experienced bakers. By keeping the ingredients balanced and the method straightforward, you can achieve cookies that are chewy, flavorful, and irresistible. Sharing these cookies with loved ones adds even more joy to the experience, making them a dessert that never goes out of style.
