Best Chocolate Chip Cookies

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Best Chocolate Chip Cookies

These classic chocolate chip cookies are soft and chewy in the center, lightly crisp around the edges, and loaded with melty chocolate chips. They’re simple enough for everyday baking and make a delicious homemade treat for the whole family.

Ingredients

  • 2¼ cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • ¾ cup granulated sugar
  • ¾ cup packed brown sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
  • ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans, optional

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven: Heat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
  2. Combine the dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Set the mixture aside.
  3. Cream the butter and sugars: In a large bowl, beat the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and creamy. This usually takes about 2–3 minutes.
  4. Add the eggs and vanilla: Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Add the vanilla extract and mix until smooth.
  5. Combine the mixtures: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture. Stir just until the flour disappears. Avoid overmixing the dough.
  6. Add the chocolate chips: Fold in the chocolate chips and nuts, if using, until evenly distributed throughout the dough.
  7. Shape the cookies: Scoop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie.
  8. Bake: Bake for approximately 9–11 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden while the centers still look slightly soft.
  9. Cool: Let the cookies rest on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Helpful Tips

For thicker and chewier cookies, refrigerate the dough for 30–60 minutes before baking. For extra chocolate flavor, press a few additional chocolate chips onto the tops of the cookies immediately after they come out of the oven.

Serving Ideas

Enjoy them warm with a glass of milk, coffee, or tea. Store cooled cookies in an airtight container to help keep them soft and fresh.

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