Chocolate chip cookies are a timeless dessert that bring joy to people of all ages. With their crispy edges, soft centers, and gooey chocolate chips, they’re a universal favorite. This recipe will help you bake cookies that are irresistibly delicious and perfect for every occasion, whether it's a family gathering, school bake sale, or just a cozy evening treat. Follow these easy steps to create cookies that are golden on the outside and soft and chewy on the inside.

Ingredients:

For the Dough:

• 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 3/4 cup brown sugar, packed
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 large eggs
• 2 cups semisweet chocolate chips

Steps:

1. Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Preparing a hot oven ensures the cookies bake evenly and develop a nice golden-brown color. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats to prevent sticking.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the flour, baking soda, and salt. Whisk the mixture well to ensure the baking soda is evenly distributed, which helps the cookies rise uniformly.
3. Cream the Butter and Sugars: In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar. Beat for about 2-3 minutes until the mixture is light and fluffy. The creamy texture ensures the cookies will be tender and melt in your mouth.
4. Incorporate Eggs and Vanilla: Add the eggs one at a time to the butter and sugar mixture, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract for a warm, aromatic flavor that enhances the overall taste of the cookies.
5. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Mix on low speed until just combined. Avoid overmixing, as this can make the cookies tough. The dough should be soft and slightly sticky.
6. Add Chocolate Chips: Using a spatula or wooden spoon, fold in the chocolate chips. For extra texture and flavor, you can mix in chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans.
7. Shape the Cookies: Scoop the dough using a tablespoon or cookie scoop to create even-sized cookies. Roll them gently into balls and place them onto the prepared baking sheets, leaving about 2 inches of space between each cookie to allow for spreading.
8. Bake: Bake the cookies for 8-10 minutes. Keep an eye on them—they’re ready when the edges are golden brown but the centers still look slightly undercooked. This is key to achieving a soft, chewy texture.
9. Cool: Remove the cookies from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes. Transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. Cooling helps them firm up while maintaining their soft centers.

Tips for Perfect Cookies:

• For extra chewy cookies, use more brown sugar than white sugar. The molasses in brown sugar adds moisture and richness.
• You can chill the dough in the refrigerator for 30 minutes before baking to prevent the cookies from spreading too much in the oven.
• Experiment with mix-ins like white chocolate chips, dried cranberries, or shredded coconut for a creative twist.
• To keep cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container with a slice of bread. The bread helps retain moisture.

Why These Cookies Are Special:

These chocolate chip cookies are a true classic, loved for their comforting and nostalgic flavors. The balance between sweetness and the slight saltiness of the dough makes every bite satisfying. Whether you enjoy them warm with a glass of milk or as a snack on the go, these cookies are guaranteed to bring a smile to your face. Plus, they’re easy to make and perfect for sharing with loved ones. Happy baking!