Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple Ingredients: Utilizes common pantry staples—no need for special trips to the store.
- Quick Preparation: No chilling required; you can enjoy freshly baked cookies in under 30 minutes.
- Perfect Texture: Achieves a soft, chewy center with slightly crisp edges, satisfying all cookie texture preferences.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Unsalted butter
- Granulated sugar
- Brown sugar
- Egg
- Vanilla extract
- All-purpose flour
- Baking soda
- Salt
- Chocolate chips
Directions
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Prepare Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
- Cream Butter and Sugars: In a large mixing bowl, combine softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar. Beat until light and fluffy.
- Incorporate Egg and Vanilla: Add the egg and vanilla extract to the butter-sugar mixture. Mix until just combined.
- Combine with Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined. Avoid overmixing to prevent tough cookies.
- Fold in Chocolate Chips: Stir in the chocolate chips gently, ensuring even distribution.
- Shape the Cookies: Roll the dough into balls approximately 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter and place them 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 8.5 to 9.5 minutes, or until the edges are set, and the centers still appear slightly undercooked.
- Cool: Remove from the oven and let the cookies rest on the baking sheet for about a minute before transferring them to a cooling rack. Allow them to cool completely to set the texture.
Servings and Timing
- Yield: Approximately 24 cookies
- Preparation Time: 15 minutes
- Baking Time: 8.5 to 9.5 minutes per batch
- Total Time: Approximately 30 minutes
Variations
- Nutty Twist: Fold in chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch and flavor.
- Double Chocolate: Incorporate cocoa powder into the dry ingredients for a chocolate-infused dough.
- Sea Salt Finish: Sprinkle a pinch of flaky sea salt on top of each cookie before baking to enhance the sweetness.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Keep the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
- Freezing: For longer storage, freeze the baked cookies in a single layer before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to three months.
- Reheating: To enjoy warm cookies, reheat them in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 5 minutes or microwave for 10-15 seconds.
FAQs
What makes these chocolate chip cookies soft?
The softness comes from the proper ratio of butter and sugars, as well as avoiding overmixing the dough, which keeps the gluten development minimal.
Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?
Yes, but reduce the added salt in the recipe to balance the flavors.
Do I need to chill the dough before baking?
This recipe doesn’t require chilling, making it quick and convenient.
Can I substitute the chocolate chips with other types of chocolate?
Absolutely! Feel free to use chunks, discs, or even white chocolate chips.
How can I ensure my cookies don’t spread too much?
Using softened, not melted, butter and properly measuring the flour can help control spreading.
Why are my cookies turning out hard?
Overbaking or adding too much flour can result in hard cookies. Ensure accurate measurements and watch baking times closely.
Can I add other mix-ins to this recipe?
Yes, ingredients like dried fruits, toffee bits, or different nuts can be added.
How do I know when the cookies are done?
The edges should be set, and the centers slightly undercooked; they’ll firm up as they cool.
Is it okay to freeze the cookie dough?
Yes, portion the dough into balls, freeze them on a tray, then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen, adding an extra minute or two to the baking time.
What’s the best way to soften butter quickly?
Cut the butter into small pieces and let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes, or microwave for 5-8 seconds—ensure it doesn’t melt.
Conclusion
These award-winning soft chocolate chip cookies are a delightful treat for any occasion. Their simplicity and delectable taste make them a favorite among both novice and seasoned bakers. Whether enjoyed fresh from the oven or savored later, they will satisfy your cookie cravings every time.
Print
Award-Winning Soft Chocolate Chip Cookies
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These award-winning soft chocolate chip cookies are a must-try for cookie lovers. With a perfect balance of chewiness, rich chocolate flavor, and crispy edges, these cookies have triumphed in multiple baking competitions. Quick to make and easy to store, they are the ultimate indulgence for all ages. Whether for a bake sale, holiday gathering, or a sweet treat at home, these cookies will win over everyone!
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 large egg
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 2 cups chocolate chips
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Prepare dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
- Cream butter and sugars: In a large bowl, beat softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
- Incorporate egg and vanilla: Add egg and vanilla extract to the butter mixture. Mix until combined.
- Combine with dry ingredients: Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing gently until just combined.
- Fold in chocolate chips: Stir in the chocolate chips, ensuring even distribution.
- Shape and bake: Roll dough into 1 to 1.5-inch balls, spacing 2 inches apart on the baking sheet. Bake for 8.5 to 9.5 minutes or until the edges are set and the centers are slightly undercooked.
- Cool: Let cookies rest for a minute on the baking sheet, then transfer to a cooling rack. Allow to cool completely to set the texture.
Notes
- For a nutty twist, add chopped walnuts or pecans.
- For a double chocolate flavor, incorporate cocoa powder into the dry ingredients.
- To enhance sweetness, sprinkle a pinch of sea salt on top before baking.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 8.5 to 9.5 minutes per batch
- Category: Dessert, Cookies
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
